Boat Ramps Open In Marion County: Where To Launch?

Boat ramps in Marion County have been subject to closures and reopenings in recent years. In April 2020, county-operated boat ramps were reopened by the county commissioners, while federal and state boat ramps remained closed. However, there were concerns about residents not adhering to social distancing guidelines. To address this, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission enforced regulations, including maintaining a distance of 50 feet from other vessels and limiting the number of passengers in boats. The availability of boat ramps in Marion County is crucial for recreational purposes and for individuals whose livelihoods depend on boating activities.

County-operated boat ramps open

In Marion County, several county-operated boat ramps have been opened to the public. These include the following:

Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area

Boat ramps and restrooms are open at Carney Island, with enhanced law enforcement to ensure all Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations are followed.

Heagy-Burry boat ramp

The boat ramp at Heagy-Burry on Orange Lake is open.

Moorhead boat ramp

The Moorhead boat ramp on Lake Kerr is open, with onsite restrooms available.

Moss Bluff North and South boat ramps

Both the North and South boat ramps at Moss Bluff on the Ocklawaha River are open, along with onsite restrooms.

Ray Wayside Park boat ramp

The boat ramp at Ray Wayside Park on the Ocklawaha and Silver Rivers is open, along with restrooms.

While these county-operated boat ramps are open, it's important to note that some county-owned facilities, such as playgrounds and pavilions, remain closed. Additionally, residents are expected to follow CDC recommendations and maintain social distancing while using these facilities.

Federal and state boat ramps closed

While boat ramps in Marion County, Florida, have started to reopen, federal and state-operated boat ramps remain closed. This means that boaters cannot access the following locations:

• Playgrounds and pavilions
• Southeastern Livestock Pavilion
• Belleview Sportsplex
• Brick City Activity Center
• Eureka East and Eureka West boat ramps
• Forest Community Center
• Horseshoe Lake Park & Retreat
• John Van Fleet Sports Complex
• Liberty Community Park
• Marshall Swamp Trailhead
• Orange Lake Community Park
• Orange Springs boat ramp
• Rainbow Neighborhood Park
• Ralph Russell Memorial Park

The closures are due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and county commissioners are concerned about residents not following social distancing guidelines. However, the county-operated boat ramps that have reopened will require residents to follow CDC recommendations and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations, including maintaining a 50-foot distance from other vessels and limiting the number of passengers in boats.

Social distancing guidelines

Boat ramps in Marion County, Florida, are open but with strict social distancing guidelines in place. While many residents are happy to be able to access the lakes for recreation, some are concerned that social distancing guidelines are not being followed. To ensure the safety of all, it is important to adhere to the following social distancing guidelines:

• Maintain a distance of 50 feet from other vessels while out on the water.
• Limit the number of passengers in each boat.
• Keep gatherings to a maximum of 10 people, both inside and outside of boats.
• Comply with all Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations, including staying away from other vessels and limiting the number of passengers.
• If social distancing guidelines are not followed, boaters may be asked to leave the park or lake, or it could result in another closure.

It is important to note that federal and state boat ramps in Marion County remain closed. Additionally, some county-owned facilities, such as playgrounds and pavilions, are also closed to the public. Before visiting a boat ramp, it is recommended to check with local authorities, as ramps may be temporarily closed due to special events, weather conditions, or repairs.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations

In Marion County, Florida, boat ramps were reopened in April 2020 after county commissioners reinstated access to county-operated lakes. However, federal and state boat ramps remained closed. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission enforces several regulations that boaters must comply with to ensure safe and responsible boating. These regulations include maintaining a distance of 50 feet from other vessels and limiting the number of passengers in a boat. In addition, gatherings on and off the boat must not exceed 10 people.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Boating and Waterways Section plays a crucial role in improving boating access across the state. They actively identify potential sites for new boating access facilities and renovate or expand existing ones. The Commission has constructed and maintains over 200 access sites, with new sites being added annually. These boat ramps are provided free of charge to the boating public, and most are open 24 hours a day.

To ensure the safety and well-being of all boaters, the Commission has implemented social distancing guidelines, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Boaters are expected to adhere to these guidelines, and non-compliance may result in warnings or the closure of boat ramps and lakes. The Commission relies on residents to follow these regulations to prevent the spread of the virus and keep everyone safe.

It is important to note that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's regulations extend beyond social distancing. They also encompass other aspects of boating, such as boating safety, environmental protection, and wildlife conservation. These regulations are in place to promote responsible boating and protect Florida's diverse aquatic ecosystems. Boaters are expected to familiarise themselves with these regulations before embarking on their journeys.

In conclusion, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission plays a vital role in regulating boating activities in Marion County and across the state. By enforcing regulations and providing access to numerous boat ramps, the Commission ensures that residents can enjoy Florida's waterways while prioritising safety, social responsibility, and environmental conservation. Boaters in Marion County must adhere to these regulations to protect themselves, others, and the natural environment.

Open boat ramps and onsite restrooms

As of July 30, 2024, several boat ramps and onsite restrooms in Marion County, Florida, are open to the public. These include:

Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area

Boat ramps and restrooms only; Lake Weir

Heagy-Burry

Boat ramp; Orange Lake

Moorhead

Boat ramp and onsite restrooms only; Lake Kerr

Moss Bluff North

Boat ramps and onsite restrooms only; Ocklawaha River

Moss Bluff South

Boat ramps and onsite restrooms; Ocklawaha River

Ray Wayside Park

Boat ramp and restrooms only; Ocklawaha and Silver Rivers

Please note that some county-owned facilities, including playgrounds, pavilions, and certain parks and recreation areas, remain closed to the public. It is recommended to check with local authorities before visiting, as boat ramps may be subject to temporary closures due to special events, weather conditions, or repairs.

In addition to the above locations, there is also a boat ramp at Lake Marion in East Central Haines City/Lake Hamilton, Polk County. This lake is perfect for boating, jet skiing, and arriving or departing by seaplane. Anglers have reported catching large bass, stripers, bluegill, and crappie.

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