Willamette Mission State Park

Willamette Mission State Park offers convenient access to the Willamette River near Gervais with multiple launch options. The primary boat ramp is located at the north end of the park adjacent to the historic Wheatland Ferry, providing parking (fee required) and ready access to the river. An additional launch opportunity exists at Mission Lake Day-use Area, which features a smaller boat ramp suitable for quieter water paddling and panfishing. Two trails from the Filbert Grove Day-use Area lead to a gravel bar beach that's popular for kayak and canoe launches.

This location offers paddlers good wildlife viewing opportunities, including osprey and Canada geese nests visible on transmission towers along the east bank near Oaks Bottom, plus active beaver populations. The park features a 4-mile bike trail through river bottomlands and an ADA-accessible fishing dock. Note that parking requires payment, and overnight parking requires a pre-issued permit from park staff. Seasonal boater parking permits are available February through May for those planning multiple visits. The gate locks at posted hours, so plan accordingly if paddling early or late in the day.