Boat ramp guide
Jack Smith Park Launching Facility
Needles, San Bernardino County, CA
Overview
Jack Smith Park is the City of Needles' public launching facility on the Colorado River, at 1000 River Road in Needles, San Bernardino County. The roughly 11-acre riverside park combines a boat launch with a beach, playground and day-use picnic areas, a short drive from I-40 and US 95.
The launch
The state boating facilities directory lists one boarding float and 48 car-and-trailer parking spaces, plus restrooms. Launch fees are $20 for a day or $180 for an annual pass, and vehicle-only day parking is $5. You pay at the kiosk with cash, check or card.
Seasonal hours
Unlike many river ramps, Jack Smith runs on a seasonal schedule. In March and October it's open weekends only, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. In April, May and September it's open Monday through Thursday 9 to 4 and Friday through Sunday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. From June through August it's open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hours can change for bad weather.
Boating here
Needles sits on a flowing stretch of the Colorado above Topock Gorge and Lake Havasu. Summer heat is extreme, so plan early starts. The river current is steady and depths change with dam releases, so watch for sandbars.
Getting there & access
By road
The park is at 1000 River Road in Needles, between River Road and Reclamation Road along the Colorado River. It's close to I-40 and US 95.
Launching
There's one boarding float and 48 car-and-trailer spaces. Pay at the kiosk ($20 day, $180 annual) with cash, check or card. Check the seasonal hours before you tow, because the gate isn't open every day in spring and fall.
On the river
The Colorado at Needles is a moving river. Expect current, shifting sandbars and changing depths with dam releases. Downstream, the river leads toward Topock Gorge and Lake Havasu.
Hours by season
March and October: weekends 9 a.m.–4 p.m. April, May and September: Monday–Thursday 9–4, Friday–Sunday 7–6. June through August: daily 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Hours may change for inclement weather.
Amenities
- Boat launch — One boarding float onto the Colorado River
- Trailer parking — 48 car-and-trailer spaces
- Restrooms — On site
- Beach and BBQs — Day-use beach with barbecue areas
- Shaded seating — Shaded seating areas
- Playground and paths — Playground, paved walking paths and exercise equipment
Rules & official resources
- California Boater Card required for all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, since January 1, 2025
- Launch fees are $20 per day or $180 per year, paid at the kiosk
- Vehicle day parking without a launch is $5
- The launch keeps seasonal hours, which may change for inclement weather
- Before trailering to a California reservoir, contact its managing agency for current inspection rules
Common boat service needs here
Engine and cooling service
Needles is one of the hottest places in California. Cooling systems, impellers and lower units work hard here, and river sand wears water pumps.
Find Marine Mechanics & Engine Service providers →Gelcoat restoration
Boats stored outdoors in the desert oxidize quickly. Periodic compounding and waxing keep gelcoat from chalking.
Find Gelcoat, Oxidation & Paint Correction providers →Canvas and upholstery
Seats and covers crack and fade under desert UV, so owners often need vinyl and canvas work.
Find Canvas, Covers & Upholstery providers →Washdown
River silt and dust build up after each trip. A good wash keeps hulls and trailers in shape.
Find Boat Detailing & Washing providers →Guides & FAQs
Nearby providers
No providers listed near this location yet — check back soon.
Sources
Last verified October 7, 2026