Oregon Coots Water Access

This page is read only. You can view the source, but not change it. Ask your administrator if you think this is wrong.
======Saint Helens Marina======

[[https://sthelensmarina.com/|Saint Helens Marina]] is privately operated.  It is conveniently located in Saint Helens and across from Sand Island.  See comments below on water levels.  Fees are charged and cash is the payment.

{{::sthelens1.gif?640|}}

Above are the ramps.

{{::sthelens2.gif?400|}}

This picture reminds us that the ramps may not be as long as we need, depending on water height.

{{::sthelens3.gif?400|}}

And a picture of the ramp, as viewed from the dock.  Thanks to Steve M for all the pictures.

**Location**

GPS Location 45.86733, -122.79894

[[https://umap.openstreetmap.de/en/map/coots-map_138835#12#12/45.86733/-122.79894|OpenStreet Map]]

{{::sthelensmap.png?640|}}

Saint Helens downtown is a short distance off of Hwy US 30.  The Saint Helens Marina is slightly downstream from the Courthouse Docks that are in front of the Columbia County Court House. Over-night slips are available at the [[https://www.sthelensoregon.gov/1208/Courthouse-Docks|Saint Helens Courthouse Docks]] (fees) and across at [[https://www.sandislandcampground.com/|Sand Island]] (no fee).

{{::sthelenschart.png?640|}}

**Description**

It is 70 nautical miles to the ocean, but the tidal effect still produces changes in water level of three feet or more.  A local [[https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaatidepredictions.html?id=9439201|NOAA tides at Saint Helens table]] is available.

A small store and fuel are available on the outer dock.

Overnight parking may be available across River Street from the ramp.  Check with the Marina Office.

The ramp is of average slope and may not be adequate for some boats, such as sailboats with deep keels.  During the low water portion of the summer, check that there is enough water, especially at low tide.

**Water Character**

This is almost on the Columbia River.  The dredge created island, Sand Island, is the separator. Full NOAA nautical charts are available for the river.  There are big boats, like freighters, on the river.  The weather can follow the river from the ocean.  In general, one needs to treat the Columbia River with the respect that any big body of water deserves, but it is a great place to boat, fish and travel.

Depending on fishing seasons and conditions, the Saint Helens Marina may be very busy.