Boating

Boater cruising west on Lake Meredith

NPS Photo

Boating at Lake Meredith National Recreation Area

Boating is one of the most enjoyed activities at Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, where visitors take to the water by private boat or through rentals offered by the park’s vendor. The lake offers a stunning setting for both adventure and relaxation.

There is no fee to boat on Lake Meredith, but all motorized vessels must be registered and operated according to federal and state regulations. Safety is essential on the water—lifejackets save lives, even for experienced swimmers, and should always be part of your gear.

Every vessel must carry a U.S. Coast Guard–approved personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board, and each PFD must fit properly. Children under 13 must wear a Coast Guard–approved wearable PFD while the boat is underway.

Boating is a great way to escape the summer heat, but keeping safety first ensures everyone has a great experience. Boat ramps at Sanford‑Yake, Cedar Canyon, and Blue West are currently open for public use.

Enjoy your time on the water, and stay safe as you explore Lake Meredith.

 

Weather quickly rolling in at Fritch Fortress Dock

NPS Photo

Safety First

Know the rules and regulations for Lake Meredith.
All boaters must follow federal and state regulations.

United States Coast Guard
https://www.uscgboating.org/
Texas Parks & Wildlife
https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/boat/

Lake Conditions and Weather

Lake levels at Lake Meredith change throughout the year, which can affect shoreline conditions. Always check the weather and lake status before your visit. The Texas Panhandle experiences hot, mostly clear summers with occasional thunderstorms, and very cold, dry, and windy winters. Temperatures typically range from 25°F to 91°F, with extremes rarely dipping below 13°F or rising above 99°F.

When boating, bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Summer weather is usually sunny and dry, but storms can develop quickly and move into the area with little warning. These storms may produce heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, hail, and occasionally tornadoes. Always review the lake forecast before heading out.
For water activities, the best time to visit is generally from May through September.

 

Boater near Sanford Yake

NPS Photo

Other Boating Reminders

In Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993, who plans to operate a boat with an engine over 15 horsepower, a personal watercraft (PWC), or a sailboat longer than 14 feet, must have a boater education card. Additionally, children under 13 are not allowed to operate a PWC unless accompanied by someone at least 18 years old who is legally permitted to operate the watercraft.

 

Boating on a calm day near Sanford Yake

NPS Photo

Boat Rentals

Don't own a boat or kayak?

Rent a watercraft from one of the vendors of Lake Meredith National Recreation Area.

Wright-On Bait, Tackle and Watercraft Rental is located at the Sanford Yake boat ramp. This vendor rents pontoon boats, kayaks, & paddleboards. Call for information at 806-865-3131.

 

Lake Mead Quagga Mussels

NPS Photo

Zebra and Quagga Mussels

Before entering and after exiting the waters of Lake Meredith, CLEAN. DRAIN. DRY.

Zebra and quagga mussels are not in Lake Meredith. Mud, plants, and animals can cling to trailers, equipment or vehicles and spread invasive mussels. Clean, Drain, and Dry anything coming in contact with water (boats, trailers, vehicles, equipment, clothing, dogs, etc.). Keep Lake Meredith beautiful.

CLEAN.

Remove all plants, animals, and mud and thoroughly wash watercraft and trailer. Take a quick trip to the car wash to use high-pressure spray nozzles to help clean crevices and hidden areas. (Boats stored on infested waters may need to be professionally decontaminated.)

DRAIN.

Before leaving the park, drain all the water from boats, including the motor, bilge, livewell, ballast, hull and anything else trapping water. Leave drain plugs out during transport.

DRY.

Allow time for boats to dry completely before launching in other waters. Texas Parks and Wildlife suggests letting your boat dry for at least a week before taking it to another body of water.

Remember...Clean, Drain and Dry

Help protect lakes from invasive species such as giant salvinia, quagga, and zebra mussels. Invasive species can attach to boats, trailers or gear and spread to another lake. Always clean, drain, and dry watercraft before traveling from one waterbody to another.

IT'S THE LAW - Remove Drain Plugs

It is illegal to transport or possess aquatic invasive species in Texas. Drain plugs must be removed when leaving the water.