Pierce Riffle boat launch
Pierce Riffle
Pierce Riffle boat ramp services the Rogue River, a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The river is known for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. The ramp is located near the town of Merlin and is easily accessible from Interstate 5.
A variety of watercraft are permitted on the Rogue River, including powerboats, kayaks, canoes, and rafts. However, there are regulations in place to protect the river's natural resources and ensure the safety of all users. Boaters are advised to check with local authorities for the latest information on regulations and permits.
In summary, Pierce Riffle boat ramp is a public concrete ramp located in Josephine County, Oregon. It services the Rogue River and is approximately 12 feet wide. A variety of watercraft are permitted on the river, subject to regulations and permits.
Plan your launch down to the hour
Same weather feed Snoflo's iOS app uses -- updated continuously from NOAA / yr.no.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day temperature & precipitation
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
Area streamflow levels
USGS streamgauges around Pierce Riffle -- the same readings that determine whether your launch is safe and your boat is the right craft.
| Streamgauge | Discharge | View |
|---|---|---|
| Rogue River At Grants Pass | 2,290 cfs | → |
| Applegate River Near Wilderville | 156 cfs | → |
| Rogue River At Raygold Near Central Point | 2,240 cfs | → |
| Applegate River Near Applegate | 147 cfs | → |
| Bear Creek At Medford | 30 cfs | → |
| Star Gulch Near Ruch | 0 cfs | → |
Plan a longer trip
The closest paddle runs, fishing spots, and other boat launches so you can extend a day on the water.
Boating safety & etiquette
- Check the conditions before you launch
- Use the streamflow numbers, weather, and wind forecast on this page. High-cfs whitewater requires whitewater-specific craft and skill.
- Wear your life jacket
- Statistically the single biggest survival factor in a boating incident. State law often requires one per passenger.
- File a float plan
- Tell someone on shore your put-in, take-out, and expected return time. Especially for multi-day or remote trips.
- Yield at the ramp
- Prep gear in the parking lot, not on the ramp. Launch and clear quickly so others can use the lane.
- Clean, drain, dry
- Inspect, clean, drain and dry your boat between waters to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Set push alerts in the Snoflo app
Save Pierce Riffle as a favorite, set a discharge threshold or a wind/precipitation alert, and the iOS app will push the moment conditions cross.
About Pierce Riffle
Can I launch a motorboat here?
Most Snoflo-tracked launches support motorboats; check the operator for any horsepower restrictions, paddle-only zones, or seasonal closures.
How fresh is the streamflow data?
USGS streamgauges report continuously (every 15 minutes); the table on this page pulls the latest reading at page load.
Is there a fee?
Many federal and state boat launches charge a day-use fee. Check the operator's site before driving out.
What boat is right for these conditions?
Use the nearby streamflow numbers and river-run panel on this page to gauge current conditions. Wider, slower water is friendly for casual paddling and powerboats; high-cfs whitewater requires whitewater-specific craft and skill.
Can I get alerts when conditions change?
Yes -- alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this launch, set a threshold (discharge, wind), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses.
Other launches near here
Snoflo-tracked boat launches within driving distance of Pierce Riffle.