Cooley Lake Conservation Area offers a concrete boat ramp on the lake's southwestern corner for paddlers and anglers seeking a calm, uncrowded water experience.

The 1,345-acre area features an oxbow lake surrounded by marshland, forested bluffs with limestone outcroppings, and Missouri River access; visitors must check in at the kiosk with a Conservation ID before launching.

Motorboats are prohibited, making it ideal for paddling, and the area is open 4 a. m. to 10 p. m. daily, though hunting and fishing are allowed 24 hours where permitted.