Hamilton Island Boat Ramp

(launch)
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The Hamilton Island boat ramp is located just downstream of Bonneville Lock and Dam on the Washington shore of the Columbia River in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The Hamilton Island Boat Ramp is near the former location of the lower end of the Cascade Rapids on the Columbia River. The area has been a hub of activity of thousands of years. Referred to as Strawberry Island by Lewis and Clark, the island marked the lower end of the Cascade Rapids which were a 4-6 mile stretch of rapids requiring a portage. The nearby Fort Cascades National Historic Site provides a walking trail and a number of interpretive signs. Information regarding the Boat Restriction Zone as well as general information is available at the boat ramp.

Additional Launch Site Information
Environmental Considerations: 

The islands, river channels and areas below Bonneville Dam provide unique habitats for a number of fish, wildlife, and plant species and are a part of the cultural heritage. Please tread lightly on this unique environment.

Safety Considerations: 

Strong current in channel below Bonneville Dam. Barge, commercial and recreational boat traffic can be heavy at times. Boat traffic is not allowed in the Boat Restricted Zones marked above and below the dam. Wind, weather and waves change quickly in the Gorge so use caution and be prepared. Contact the Bonneville Ranger Office at 541.374.8344 in advance of your trip if overnight parking will be required. Parking area is open to public and securing valuables is highly recommended.

ADA Accessibility: 
Parking
ADA Accessibility: 
Restrooms
Launch Location
Driving Directions: 

Take Washington Hwy 14 to approximately milepost 38.5. Watch for signs indicating Fort Cascades National Historic Site and turn south onto Dam Access Road.

Nearest City: 
North Bonneville
North Bonneville
WA
Launch Details
Hours of Operation: 
24 hours
Tidal Influence: 
Combinations of flows from the dam can affect the river level below Bonneville Dam. Efforts are made to keep it within the following guidelines. Summer - no more than 1.5' per hour and 4' per day. Winter - no more than 3' per hour and 7' per day.
Shore Description: 
Adjacment shoreline is rock and riprap.
Launch Type: 
Dock
Launch Type: 
Ramp
Launch Fees: 
No
Dock Description: 
Floating - 20 inches
Ramp Lanes: 
1
Parking Fees: 
No
Parking Type: 
Day and Overnight
Number of Parking Spaces: 
30
Restrooms: 
Yes
Restroom Type: 
Pit Toilet
Contact Info
Site Manager Organization: 
US Army Corps of Engineers
William Fowler
Senior Park Ranger
541-374-4557
William.B.Fowler@usace.army.mil
http://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/OP/S/rec_home
Site Manager Address: 
PO Box 50 Bonneville Lock and Dam
Cascade Locks
OR
97104-1050
Nautical Information
Reach Name: 
The Gorge
NOAA Chart Number: 
18531
River Mile: 
144
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