The following is a checklist of potential facilities and other considerations for developing a launch site for non-motorized craft. As noted earlier, minimal facilities serve the needs of many paddlers, and all of the items listed below may not be necessary in all areas. Getting to the Access Site  streets and highways, public transportation, links to other trails and/or greenways Bike Parking allows paddlers to bike to the put-in and/pr shuttle themselves Boat Racks, Long and Short Term Equipment Storage boat storage is a limiting factor for many would-be paddlers who live in apartments; storage racks or lockers make it possible for paddlers to take public transportation to the launch-site avoiding the problems of parking on-site Camping Area many water trails around the country involve camping on islands, remote areas, or areas inaccessible by road or foot trails; siting launch sites in or near established or planned camping areas allows longer travel on the waterway Landscaping and Stream Buffer Vegetation   Launch beach, dock, shelf or ramp clearly identified from both land and water non or low-abrasive surfaces are preferred by owners of more expensive gel-coated figerglass boats; low walkway piers between launch ramp’s lanes make the pier usable by kayakers; ramps and floating docks allow access at any water level Lighting parking, walkways, unloading area, stairs and dock or ramp Parking adequate for site, handicapped spaces, reasonable walking distance to launch site but screened so that stream is buffered, hours of accessibility Picnic area lawn, benches, picnic tables, grills, shelter Playground a place to wait children at takeout can make the site and river family-friendly Signage consider signs on bridges for paddlers that identify water trail and road name; road signs locating and directing traffic to the entrance of the access site; and signs identifying phone, parking and unloading areas (also see section on maps and signs) Security fencing, lighting, emergency phone Stairs walkways, and paths as necessary Swimming area where the waterway is clean and safe enough Toilets   Unloading/tie-down area for boats separate from parking, near launch, dock or ramp, allows parking to be located further from the launch site Waste disposal containers large enough may encourage people to collect garbage found along the waterway Water drinking fountains, faucets for filling tanks and canteens, washing Lookouts It may also be desirable to establish stopping spots along trail stretches. This would allow opportunities for rest, contemplation, photography, or a refuge from conflicting motor boat traffic.