Boat Ramp Reviews

by
The RISAA Boat Ramps Committee

A RISAA database promoting accessibility to
Rhode Island's public boat ramp resources.

This months boat ramp review is:
OAKLAND BEACH

The Oakland Beach ramp was inspected by committee member Dave Fewster, and is one of the latest ramps that have been reconstructed by the Rhode Island DEM.

It features a double ramp, with a fixed sloping dock that is handicapped accessible. It has a concrete surface in good condition
Oakland Beach

There is sufficient water for launching, even at low tide, although a huge sandbar to the immediate south must be avoided. Just follow the channel markers and you'll be fine.
Oakland Parking

There's plenty of parking for approximately 30 vehicles with trailers in the adjacent lot. Iggy's and Cherrystones restaurants are both within walking distance.
  • handicapped accessible: Yes
  • fresh water: No
  • grocery nearby: No
  • electric:No
  • lighting: NO
  • restaurant nearby: Yes
  • toilet facilities: Yes
  • trash receptacles: Yes
GETTING THERE
From Route 95 (north or south), take exit 10 heading EAST on Route 117.  Follow 117 East for approximately 4 miles, and turn RIGHT onto Oakland Beach Avenue.  (There is a 7/11 convenience store and Honda Dealership at the intersection.)

Follow Oakland Beach Ave. for approximately one mile, and turn LEFT onto Suburban Parkway.  Follow Suburban Parkway to the end, and turn RIGHT onto Bay Ave.
Oakland Beach ramp is directly ahead.

LAUNCHING TIPS  
Launching at Oakland Beach is easy, but the ramp is at an odd angle to the parking lot and can be deceptive when backing up. There are rigging/setup lanes at the back of the lot for prepping the boat for launch.

The preferred launch ramp lane is to the right (when facing the ramp) - the left ramp usually has drifted sand over the concrete and can be difficult to pull out of at low tide without the benefit of
four-wheel drive. Be aware of the large sand bar directly South of the ramp. At any tide, back straight out and follow the channel.


Note; There will usually be a survey team on the ramp from MRFSS taking a catch survey - help them out.