Belding Dam Impoundment Boat Launch

Despite looking like a traditional launch on maps, this is a carry-down site — no trailer spots, no real ramp for backing in a boat. Kayaks, canoes, and small inflatables are what you're bringing here.

There's an accessible carry-down pier, which makes loading a kayak way easier than scrambling down a muddy bank. It's one of the better carry-down setups on the Flat River for that reason.

The city enforces hours here — 7:30 AM to 11:30 PM. Don't plan on a crack-of-dawn launch in the summer; you'll be sitting in your car waiting for the legal window to open.

There are zero designated trailer spots, and even car parking is limited to whatever roadside or adjacent space you can find. If you're coming with a group of paddlers, coordinate vehicles or plan to shuttle.

The water above Belding Dam is slow and flatwater — great for a mellow paddle but don't expect river current. It silts in near the banks, so stick toward the middle channel for cleaner water and better depth.