Boat Launches in Sonoma County Regional Parks

Sonoma County’s extensive regional parks system includes numerous boat launches scattered in its waterfront parks countywide. 

Boat launches able to accommodate vessels of various sizes are located in Bodega Bay, along the Russian River, on lakes in several inland parks, and on San Pablo Bay. Most of the launches are free to use, although there’s typically a parking fee of $7 (or free for Regional Parks members.  

Together, we can protect and preserve the beauty and natural resources of Sonoma County for generations to come. Check out our page on Sustainable Travel, and look over the Leave No Trace Seven Principles.

Here’s the scoop on launches:

Spud Point Marina, Bodega Bay

Located on Bodega Harbor, Spud Point Marina sits at the epicenter of commercial and sport fishing in Sonoma County; it’s a particularly popular destination during crab and salmon seasons. Spud Point is the only Northern California ocean marina with no bar to transit when entering and exiting a harbor. Spud Point welcomes monthly berthers, overnight visitors, and yacht club cruises. The marina’s many amenities include a free waste pump-out station, fuel dock with gas and diesel, public restrooms, 30 and 50 AMP electrical service, average water depth of 12 feet, Wi-Fi, and more.

Doran Regional Park, Bodega Bay

Its two-mile stretch of sandy beach makes this a popular place for visitors to picnic, build sand castles, fly kites, surf, fish, and stroll. A rock jetty at the harbor mouth provides access for fishing, crabbing, and exploring sea life. The launch can accommodate boats up to 20 feet; a parking lot next to the launch can handle 30 vehicles with trailers. Additional amenities include a fish-cleaning station, boat-rinsing station, and picnic areas. 

Westside Regional Park, Bodega Bay

With its boat ramp, boat-rinsing station, and fish-cleaning station, this park is ideal for fishing. A large vehicle and boat parking lot is located next to the launch. Picnic tables and restrooms are onsite, and the park is near stores and tackle shops. Marine fuel may be purchased at nearby Spud Point Marina.

Wohler Bridge Fishing Access, Russian River

To use the ramp and its graveled launch, you must buy a fishing access permit. The permit includes a key that allows access to the ramps both here and at nearby Steelhead Beach. The Wohler Bridge launch provides for the loading and off-loading of small craft (four wheel drive recommended) and a short portage is required to get to the river. 

Steelhead Beach Regional Park, Russian River

Providing river access for small craft such as drift boats, kayaks, and canoes, this is an excellent spot for birding, viewing river wildlife, and picnicking. Park amenities include a beach area, picnic areas with barbecues, and flush toilets. A parking lot with 75 spaces (including five disabled accessible stalls) is located about 200 yards from the launch area. The graveled launch ramp at the river’s edge is seasonal, and four wheel drive is strongly recommended. To use the ramp, you must buy a fishing access permit, which includes a key that allows access to the ramps both here and at nearby Wohler Bridge. 

Spring Lake Regional Park, Santa Rosa

The 72-acre lake is open year-round and is a wonderful place to windsurf, canoe, or paddleboat. The boat ramp is open year-round and can accommodate watercraft up to 16 feet in length. Boats are available for rent from May through September from the concession stand, located near the park’s swimming lagoon. U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets must be worn, and no gas-powered boats are allowed on the lake; electric motors are permitted. To reach the boat launch, use the Newanga Avenue entrance to the park. 

Hudeman Slough Boat Launch, San Pablo Bay

This launch allows you to explore the marshy waterways edging San Pablo Bay. Located in an isolated area with no services, the launch is open year round, and can accommodate boats up to 24 feet; the no-fee parking lot has 20 spaces. To use the ramp and its graveled launch, you must buy a fishing access permit, which includes a key for access. NOTE: Hudeman Slough Boat Launch is closed for renovations; learn more about the county’s Hudeman Slough Boat Launch improvement project. 

For more ideas, read Unique Parks for Fishing in Sonoma County and Lake Vacations in Sonoma County. And learn more about other things to do and hotels and lodging. Get a free Visitors Guide and Map of Sonoma County.

Written by Sonoma County Insider Suzie Rodriguez.