Places to Go
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Destinations/Places to Go:
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Destination Criteria:
Point State Park
Ohio River | Pittsburgh Pool | Mile: 0.0
The Skinny:
Former home of various events including the Three Rivers Arts Festival, the Three Rivers Regatta, and Jamboree In The City to name a few.
The Real Deal:The good news is the park is undergoing major renovations. The bad news is it won't be open anytime soon. Acording to their website, "Major renovations at Point State Park are underway and will continue over the next few years. The park is open during the renovations although some areas may be closed due to construction. The wharf areas, water access, restrooms, fountain and access from parking lot through the tunnel are closed for the next phase of construction beginning August 25, 2009." However, for future reference… The Point is a great place to tie up and enjoy the park setting. Bring out a Frisbee or football and toss it around or hang out by the fountain. It is just a short walk to downtown if you are feeling energetic. Restroom facilities are also available at the park on the Allegheny River side. Located in no wake zone on weekends.
Access To:Just the Facts:- Wall dockage with cleats.
- First come first serve.
- Free docking.
- Restrictions during events. Check for updates.
Related Links:
The Rivers Casino
Ohio River | Pittsburgh Pool | Mile: 0.1
The Skinny:
Try your luck or grab a bite to eat at Pittsburgh's riverfront casino.
The Real Deal:
At this time recreational boaters are not allowed to dock at the casino; however, it is rumored that they might put in floating courtesy docks in the future. Until then you can tie up at the wharf in front of Heinz Field and make the 5 minute walk to gambler's heaven.
Access To:
Just the Facts:
- Wall dockage with cleats.
- First come first serve.
- Free docking.
- Restrictions during events. Check for updates.
Brunot Island
Ohio River | Pittsburgh Pool | Mile: 2.9
The Skinny:
The best “beach” in Pittsburgh.
The Real Deal:
It’s no Acapulco, but it is a nice place to beach the boat and hang out. There is a nice sand bar at the downriver tip of this uninhabited island. Throw some cheap plastic chairs in the water and grab a beverage. Watch your depth finder as you approach. When you get into 4’-5’ of water, shut off your engine and raise your drive. Set one anchor towards shore and one aft (if you have two). The anchor aft will keep the boat(s) from being pushed further on shore. If it is a busy day on the river, be prepared for wakes. A nice cheap place to hang out.
Access To:
Just the Facts:
- No docks.
- First come, first served.
- Free “docking.”
The Back Channel/Pittsburgh Pool
Ohio River | Pittsburgh Pool | Mile: 4.9
The Skinny:
Nice place to drop the hook and relax.
The Real Deal:
The channel leads to a fixed dam on the backside of Neville Island. It’s like a dead end on the water. Because of the location, you avoid the constant wakes and river traffic. Go for a swim, relax, catch some rays in relative peace. Makes for a great rendezvous point. Anchor the houseboat or cruiser and take the PWC or runabout to the main channel for some action.
Access To:
Just the Facts:
- No docks.
- First come, first served.
- Free “docking.”
Emsworth Lock & Dam
Ohio River | Pittsburgh Pool | Mile: 6.2
Emsworth Back Channel Dam
Ohio River | Pittsburgh Pool | Mile: 6.4
Glenfield Fish Commission Launch
Ohio River | Dashields Pool | Mile: 8.5
Paradise Beach – AKA – St. Corpen Beach Club
Ohio River | Dashields Pool | Mile: 9.3
The Skinny:
South Beach meets Neville Island. Real sand brought in to provide a beach bar atmosphere.
The Real Deal:If you are coming from the city, this place is well worth the trip through the Emsworth Locks. This outdoor bar situated behind the Paradise Island Bowl offers a cozy dance floor with a DJ spinning a variety of hits for the usually eclectic crowd. The drink prices are reasonable and bar food is available. Don’t worry if it is a chilly night, the fire pit will keep you and your significant other warm. When you enter the back channel please slow to no wake – and don’t cut too close to the tip of the island or you may run aground.
Access To:Just the Facts:- Courtesy Docks
- First come first served
- Free docking
Coast Guard Station
Ohio River | Dashields Pool | Mile: 11.0
Chestnut Street Boat Launch
Ohio River | Dashields Pool | Mile: 11.8
Dashields Lock & Dam
Ohio River | Dashields Pool | Mile: 13.3
Monaca Boat Launch
Ohio River | Montgomery Pool | Mile: 25.5