The public boat ramp at Lake William Hovell is located near the northern end of the reservoir, accessed directly from Upper King River Road.

It provides the primary launch point for boating and paddling on this freshwater storage set amid mountain bushland in northeastern Victoria's King Valley.

Because Lake William Hovell is a protected water storage, strict regulations govern boating speed and motor size, making it better suited to fishing vessels, canoes, and kayaks than high-powered craft. Jet skis and water-skiing are not permitted on the lake.

From the ramp, boaters can reach the upper lake where the King River enters — roughly 20 minutes away — or explore the deeper eastern shore, which offers good trolling for trout.

Nearby foreshore facilities include electric barbecues, undercover picnic areas, and public toilets.