Cpl J M Williams Ave, Portsmouth, VA 23701, USA
City Park Boat Ramp is a public launch site located on Cpl J M Williams Ave in Portsmouth, Virginia, along the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
No set operating hours are posted for this ramp, and there's no listed fee for launching. Boaters should call the Portsmouth Parks office at (757) 393-8481 if they need current details before heading out.
The site offers a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible parking lot, along with a free parking area for vehicles and trailers. GPS coordinates are 36.8343781°, -76.3716128°.
The ramp sits within Portsmouth's City Park, giving boaters easy access to the Elizabeth River and connecting waterways that lead out toward the wider Chesapeake Bay. The surrounding area includes park grounds, making it a convenient stop for combining a launch with recreational time on land. Nearby waters are popular for fishing and cruising toward Norfolk and Hampton Roads.
Best suited for: Local boaters and anglers looking for a free, accessible launch point near Portsmouth, especially those who value easy parking and an accommodating entrance for all visitors.
What visitors say
Mostly positiveCity Park Boat Ramp features recently repaired facilities with 2 launch and 2 retrieve lanes, a steep ramp that minimizes the need to pull vehicles deep into the water, and ample parking space that is free for Portsmouth residents. Amenities include on-site restrooms and scenic water views, though visitors note that occasional congestion occurs when spectators park in the launch area rather than nearby designated spots. The ramp is well-suited for both experienced and beginner boaters due to its good turnaround space and straightforward design.
Based on 62 Google reviews
Ramp details
Amenities & accessibility