Lake Sebago Boat Launch (By PERMIT Only) — Attraction in Town of Haverstraw

Stopped by this boat launch area to see what launching a kayak would be like.

First, the parking area is adequate, with room for at least 40-50 cars, I think, but there seemed to be more cars parked than there were boats on the water. There seemed to be a few people parking to hike the nearby trails, or bicycle 7 Lakes Drive, and a few people just sitting on the shore in lawn chairs. I didn't notice any signage in the lot saying that the parking area was for boating only, but the park's Boating Info brochure says "Please do not block any access or launch area or use the lots without a boat." Of course, unless you're planning on boating, you probably won't see that in the Boating Info brochure, so I can't really blame people for using the boat parking area for other uses...

The launch itself consists of a ramp leading onto a floating dock. The dock is pretty high off the water (~15" or so), and there are no launch cradles, so stepping down into a kayak or canoe from the dock might be a bit sketchy (I don't recall if there were cleats on the dock, either). There is a bit of space on either side of the dock that could allow for launching directly off the ramp, but the condition of the ramp is deteriorating, so if you use a cart to move you canoe or kayak to the water, it might not be practical. Retrieving the boat from the water will also entail getting it over some collapsing asphalt/concrete, which may be an issue w/ a heavier boat, especially if you're solo. If you do need to launch or retrieve directly from the ramp, the depth seems to drop off quickly, so you're most likely getting more than your feet wet.

So, as far as a review of the boat launch itself, you may be better off checking out some of the launches at the other lakes...

Lake Sebago boat launch is a nice place to enjoy nature and the water 🌊. The site is clean and well maintained, with ample parking and picnic tables. I visited on a rainy day and it was still beautiful.

The only downside is that there is only one portable bathroom onsite, which was not very clean. Also, swimming is not allowed in the lake. But if you are looking for a relaxing and scenic spot to launch your boat, this is a good option.

One thing to note is that when you try to come there are two yellow barriers and you might think that there is no parking, but that's not true. Just go through the barriers and you will find the parking lot.

Also, there is a hiking trail across the street if you want to explore more...

Love this spot. It’s our go to after a long hot day of hiking in the valley.

But recently, it’s become really crowded, especially on the weekends (guess folks started discovering places outside of NYC). That’s okay, and all, but in the last two visits, we’ve come across some rowdy crowds who unfortunately brought their manners from back in the city (think : loud music, marijuana, loud family gatherings, etc). Does take away from the tranquility that we’ve experienced before. Either way, it’s a lovely place to bring your kayak or canoe and relax on the lake and get away from it all.

Afternoon/an hour or two before sunset is the best...