Launch Your Boat Near Oswego: Best Spots To Know

If you're looking to launch a boat in Oswego County, New York, there are several boat launch sites to choose from. Oswego County offers access to Lake Ontario and the Oswego River, as well as smaller bodies of water such as the Salmon River Reservoir and North Sandy Pond. Here are some of the top options for boat launches in the area: Mexico Point, Wright's Landing Marina, North Bay Campground, Cleveland Dock, Salmon River State Forest, and Selkirk Shores State Park. These sites offer varying capacities for cars and trailers, as well as different amenities and access to different bodies of water. It's important to be mindful of local rules and etiquette when using public boat ramps, especially regarding preparation and launching procedures.

Wright's Landing Marina

Wrights Landing Marina is a boat launch site in Oswego County, New York. The site is located on Lake Ontario and the Oswego River. The coordinates for the site are 43.462644°N, 76.518548°W.

Wrights Landing Marina can accommodate 50 cars and trailers, as well as 50 cars. The site provides access to the water for boats and is suitable for fishing. The marina is also a great spot for those who want to spend a weekend under the stars.

Invasive species present at the site include Eurasian Watermilfoil, Water Chestnut, Curly-leaf Pondweed, Starry Stonewort, Zebra Mussel, and Round Goby. These species may pose risks to the environment and other native species, so it is important to take precautions when visiting the marina.

When visiting Wrights Landing Marina, it is important to follow proper boat ramp protocol and etiquette. This includes preparing your boat in advance, being considerate of others, and following any local rules and regulations. It is also important to respect the environment and avoid damaging any invasive species that may be present.

North Bay Campground

When visiting North Bay Campground and other boat launch sites in Oswego County, boaters should be aware of the presence of invasive species in the area. These include Eurasian Watermilfoil, Water Chestnut, Curly-leaf Pondweed, Starry Stonewort, Zebra Mussel, and Round Goby. These species can have negative impacts on the local ecosystem and it is important to take steps to prevent their spread.

New York offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and experiences, including boating, fishing, and camping. The state is home to over 5 million acres of land, 7,000 lakes and streams, and 52,000 miles of rivers, providing ample opportunities for exploration and recreation. Oswego County, in particular, offers a variety of boat launch sites that provide access to these natural resources.

Cleveland Dock

To get to Cleveland Dock by car, follow these directions:

• Take State Route 49 into the village of Cleveland.
• If approaching from the east, you will see Apps Landing Rd on your left after slowing down to the village speed limit. Turn left onto Apps Landing Rd and find a parking spot to enjoy Cleveland Dock.
• If travelling from the west, continue through the town and look for Apps Landing Rd on your right after descending a hill. Turn right onto Apps Landing Rd and park your car.

In addition to boating and fishing, Cleveland offers a range of outdoor activities such as swimming, snowmobiling, and more. The nearby Cleveland Memorial Park is a great spot to enjoy the lake views, have a picnic, or go fishing.

As for the dock itself, it is currently undergoing rehabilitation by Oswego County, with funding from NYS DEC (NY Works) and a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Boating Infrastructure Grant. The project includes stabilising the dock with sheet piling, adding fishing access, a floating dock system for large transient boats, a cartop boat launch, a pump-out station, restrooms with showers, a picnic shelter, and interpretive signage about its history.

Three Mile Bay Wildlife Management Area

The Three Mile Bay Wildlife Management Area is a 3,500-3,966-acre area adjacent to Three Mile Bay on the north or northwest shore of Oneida Lake. It is situated in southern Oswego County, approximately six miles east of the village of Central Square and two miles from NY Route 49. The area is generally low and flat with several ridges or islands extending across the interior. Elevations vary from 369 to 439 feet, with most of the area not exceeding 30 feet above Oneida Lake. The muck-peat and acid sand soils have a strong influence on the vegetation.

The primary purposes of the Three Mile Bay Wildlife Management Area are wildlife management, wildlife habitat management, and wildlife-dependent recreation. The area offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, boat access, birding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, and fishing.

There is a hiking trail and a gated dirt road off Wheeler Road/West Road, which is about 0.7 miles one way. The Oswego County Recreational Trail also skirts the WMA. The area can be accessed from NY 49 via Toad Harbor Road or Lower Road to Wheeler Road and West Road.

The initial acreage for the Three Mile Bay WMA was acquired in the 1950s with Pittman Robertson Funds, and additional acreage was acquired under the 1962 Recreational Bond Act. The purpose of the original acquisition was for the development of waterfowl habitat. The area is managed by the DEC's Division of Fish and Wildlife for wildlife conservation and wildlife-associated recreation.

Lock Island Park

The first launch site can accommodate 10 cars and trailers, as well as 20 cars. The coordinates for this site are 43.230653°N, 76.304578°W.

The second launch site can accommodate 10 cars and trailers, as well as 10 cars. The coordinates for this site are 43.295365°N, 76.386473°W.

In addition to boat launching, Lock Island Park offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. The Oswego River, which flows through the park, is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The park also features walking trails and picnic areas, making it a great place to spend the day outdoors.

When visiting Lock Island Park, it's important to be mindful of the natural environment. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, and it's important to respect their habitat. Always remember to clean up after yourself and follow any posted rules and regulations.

By launching your boat at Lock Island Park, you can easily access the Oswego River and explore the surrounding natural areas. So whether you're looking to fish, paddle, or just enjoy a day on the water, Lock Island Park is a great choice for boaters in the Oswego area.

Frequently asked questions