Best Places to Take Your Boat Near Rancho Cordova
Joe Collins
March 2nd, 2024
If your boat is resting safely at MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage, awesome outings are just around the corner! From tranquil lakes to scenic river floats, here are the top spots where your weekend adventures begin.
1. Lake Natoma — Easygoing Paddle Paradise
Just a 10-minute cruise from Rancho Cordova, Lake Natoma is a boating gem. It’s a 500-acre reservoir on the lower American River with a 5 mph limit, ideal for kayaking, sailing, and fishing. There are four public boat ramps, rental gear at the Sacramento State Aquatic Center, and a peaceful vibe for a stress-free day on the water.
Why Go: Calm waters, shore fishing (rainbow trout, bass), and scenic trails around the lake.
2. Lower Sunrise Recreation Area — Laid-Back River Launch
Right in Rancho Cordova, Lower Sunrise offers great access to the American River. The upstream Upper Sunrise has a dedicated boat launch, while Downstream Lower Sunrise has fishing spots, picnic areas, and gentle swimming.
Why Go: Perfect for a float trip, put in at Upper Sunrise and drift down to River Bend Park. It’s about a 2‑hour float on Class I–II waters, with shuttle service available.
3. Rossmoor Bar Boat Launch — Scenic Peninsula Launch
Located on a peninsula bordered by the American River, Rossmoor Bar provides a pleasant boat launch spot with shaded picnic spots and nature viewing.
Why Go: Great for quiet boating, wildlife watching, or a kid-friendly play area with easy access.
4. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area — Big-Water Playground
For more open-water fun, head east to Folsom Lake, about 25 miles away. This 11,000-acre playground offers water-skiing, wakeboarding, camping at sites like Beals Point and Peninsula, and fishing for trout, bass, catfish, and perch.
Why Go: Great mix of high-energy watersports and relaxing lakeside camping.
5. American River Parkway – Watt Avenue Access — River Gems
Not just for floats, and not far away, the Watt Avenue access point offers boatable stretches, swimming, fishing, and paved launch spots. They even have a life-jacket loaner station to keep things safe and fun.
Why Go: Ideal for casual boating, family days, or paddling along the river’s prettiest sections.
6. Bonus Trips — A Little Farther Away
If you're up for a longer adventure:
- Lake Berryessa (~90 min away): Wakeboard, ski, fish bass and trout in this Napa jewel.
- Lake Tahoe (~2 hours): The crown jewel, 72 miles of shoreline and dozens of boat ramps for an epic getaway.
Why These Spots Pair Perfectly with MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage
- Convenient location: Easy access off Folsom Blvd means zero hassle loading and unloading.
- Wide lanes & roomy spaces: Maneuvering your boat or trailer is smooth and stress-free.
- Secure, gated, 24/7 surveillance: Feel confident leaving your vessel behind between trips.
With your boat stored at MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage, you’re free to launch into next-level weekend fun in minutes.
Quick Outing Checklist
- Reserve launches, especially at Folsom Lake and Berryessa during summer.
- Confirm amenities, on everything from fuel, to docks, restrooms, pump-outs, and rentals.
- Pack seasoned gear: life jackets, snacks, sunscreen.
- Go early. Remember, sunrise launches beat the crowds.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to travel far for a memorable day on the water. From the calm beauty of Lake Natoma to the scenic floats on the American River, Rancho Cordova is your launchpad for fun-filled boat days.
Ready to hit the water? Keep your boat safe at MoreSpace Sunrise Self Storage and hit those ripples, waves, and rivers whenever you want.
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