Boat ramp guide
Brannan Island State Recreation Area
Rio Vista, Sacramento County, CA
Overview
Brannan Island State Recreation Area sits on Highway 160 where the Sacramento River and the San Joaquin River meet, near Rio Vista. California State Parks calls it an entryway to the Delta and its 1,000 miles of navigable waterways. The park has a 10-lane launch ramp, more than 140 campsites, picnic areas and swimming beaches, and it is one of the biggest public launch facilities in the Delta.
Status and operator
The park was closed by State Parks in April 2022, and the ramp and day-use area reopened in June 2022 for limited daily hours. State Parks fully reopened the park on December 1, 2022, and selected Park Delta Bay as the concessionaire to operate the day-use areas, the boat launch and camping. The State Parks page now lists regular day-use hours and shows camping reservations open through early October 2026, so the park and ramp are open as of this writing. Check the State Parks page for alerts before you tow.
Why boaters use it
The ramp puts you on the lower Delta near the Sacramento River and Franks Tract, with striped bass, black bass, bluegill and sturgeon fishing close by. May through October is busy; fall through spring is quieter.
Before you go
Day-use hours run from sunrise to about an hour after sunset. The gate closes after sunset and reopens at sunrise. Fees are posted by State Parks and differ between the park's pages, so check the current rate at the entrance. Golden mussels were found in the Delta in 2024, so clean, drain and dry before you leave.
Getting there & access
Getting there
The park is on State Highway 160 near Rio Vista, between the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers. Rio Vista is the closest town for fuel, groceries and supplies.
Launching
The 10-lane ramp is open during park hours and has parking, showers and restrooms. Pay launch and day-use fees at the entrance, and check the posted rate because the park's pages list different amounts.
On the water
From the ramp you reach the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers and the nearby channels toward Franks Tract. The Delta is tidal, so factor in current when leaving and returning.
Gate hours
The gate closes after sunset and reopens at sunrise. If you plan an evening return, check closing time posted at the entrance.
Amenities
- Boat launch — 10-lane ramp with parking
- Camping — More than 140 campsites, including tent, RV with hookups and hike-and-bike sites
- Day-use area — Picnic areas and swimming beaches
- Restrooms and showers — Available in the park
- Fishing — Striped bass, black bass, bluegill and sturgeon in the surrounding Delta
- Windsurfing — Popular in the Delta's afternoon winds
Rules & official resources
- California Boater Card required for all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, since January 1, 2025
- Day-use hours: sunrise to about one hour after sunset; the gate closes after sunset
- Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet and are limited to paved roads and your campsite, and are not allowed on trails or beaches except in designated areas
- Clean, drain and dry your boat and trailer after each outing; golden mussels were found in the Delta in October 2024
- 5 mph maximum within 200 feet of a swim beach, swim float, or dock or launch float in use, and within 100 feet of bathers
Common boat service needs here
Trailer and engine checks
Frequent launching and weedy Delta water are hard on trailer bearings, brakes, lights and cooling systems. Engine service and impeller checks are common.
Find Marine Mechanics & Engine Service providers →Washdowns and detailing
Boats stored on a trailer pick up river mud, algae and dust. Regular washing and waxing keeps gelcoat in good shape.
Find Boat Detailing & Washing providers →Transport and towing
Owners without a tow vehicle, or moving large boats between Delta marinas and the ramp, often hire transport.
Find Boat Transport, Towing & Delivery providers →Gelcoat and oxidation repair
Hot, dry summers oxidize gelcoat on boats stored outside. Compounding and polishing restore the finish.
Find Gelcoat, Oxidation & Paint Correction providers →Guides & FAQs
Nearby providers
No providers listed near this location yet — check back soon.
Sources
Last verified October 2, 2026