Lake Lavon Boat Ramps: Open Launch Sites For Sailors

If you're looking to get out on the water at Lake Lavon, there are plenty of boat ramps to choose from. The US Army Corps of Engineers operates 15 lakeside parks with boat ramps and other facilities, and some full-service marinas are located in Collin Park and East Fork Park. Some boat ramps are closed due to high water or flood damage, so be sure to check the Army Corps of Engineers closure report for status updates before you head out.

The US Army Corps of Engineers operates 15 boat ramps

One of the boat ramps operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers is located uplake on Twin Groves Creek. To get there, take US 380 east from McKinney and go about 12 miles before finding the park entrance to the north, before crossing the bridge. This location has a two-lane boat ramp without a dock.

Another boat ramp is located uplake on the east shore. By taking US 380 east from McKinney and going about 14 miles, you'll find signs designating the park entrance on the north side. This location offers fishing ponds and a four-lane boat ramp with a courtesy dock.

A third option is a boat ramp located mid-lake on the east shore. From Farmersville, take Texas 78 south for 4 miles, and you'll find the park entrance on the west side of the road. This ramp is also open from April 1 to September 30.

For those on the west shore of the east arm of the lake, there is a boat ramp accessible by taking FM 982 south from US 380 in Princeton. After approximately 3.5 miles, turn east on FM 3364 in Culleoka, and you'll find the park about half a mile down on the right.

It's important to note that some parks and boat ramps may be closed due to high water or flood damage, so it's always a good idea to check the Army Corps of Engineers closure report for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, a launch fee may be required at some ramps, and full-service marinas are located in Collin Park and East Fork Park.

Some boat ramps are closed due to high water or flood damage

Lake Lavon in Texas is a beautiful lake north of Dallas, known for its fishing, camping, parks, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities. The Army Corps of Engineers operates 15 lakeside parks with boat ramps and other facilities. However, it is important to note that some boat ramps and parks around Lake Lavon are currently closed due to high water or flood damage. This situation underscores the impact of flooding on recreational areas and the importance of staying informed about facility closures for a safe boating experience.

The Army Corps of Engineers provides regular updates on facility closures, and it is essential to check their closure report before planning a visit to Lake Lavon. While some boat ramps remain open, high water levels or flood damage may cause temporary closures to ensure the safety of visitors. These closures are necessary to assess and repair any damage caused by flooding, which can impact the stability and safety of boat ramps and other structures.

Flood damage can have significant effects on boat ramps and the surrounding infrastructure. High water levels can cause erosion and structural damage to ramps, making them unsafe for use. Additionally, flooding can impact electrical systems, signage, and other essential components of the boat ramp facilities. In some cases, floodwaters may bring debris and sediment, requiring thorough cleaning and maintenance before the ramps can be safely reopened.

The Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for assessing and addressing flood damage at Lake Lavon's boat ramps and parks. Their team of experts works diligently to ensure that affected areas are safe and accessible again as soon as possible. It is crucial for boaters and visitors to respect closure notices and avoid attempting to use closed boat ramps, as this can pose a safety hazard.

While some boat ramps at Lake Lavon are closed due to high water or flood damage, there are still plenty of other recreational opportunities available in the area. Visitors can explore the beautiful parks, hiking trails, and campgrounds that Lake Lavon has to offer. It is always a good idea to check the latest information and updates from the Army Corps of Engineers before planning a trip to Lake Lavon to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

A launch fee is required at some ramps

The US Army Corps of Engineers operates 15 lakeside parks with boat ramps and other facilities on Lake Lavon. While some of these boat ramps are free to access, a launch fee is required at some ramps. An annual pass is available for those who wish to use the ramps regularly. It is important to note that facilities may be closed from time to time, so it is recommended to check the Army Corps of Engineers closure report for status updates before planning a visit.

One option for launching a boat on Lake Lavon is to use the services of a marina. Collin Park Marina, located on the west shore of the lake, offers two four-lane boat ramps and a courtesy dock. A park entry fee is required to use these ramps. Additionally, East Fork Harbor Marina, located downlake west of the dam, provides a four-lane concrete ramp with a courtesy dock. This marina is open from March to September, from 6 am to 10 pm.

For those who prefer to use a public boat ramp, there are several options available around Lake Lavon. One such option is the US Army Corps of Engineers-operated ramp located uplake on Twin Groves Creek. This site offers a two-lane boat ramp without a dock. Another option is the ramp located uplake on the east shore, which features a four-lane boat ramp with a courtesy dock. A fee is required for fishing in the ponds within the park. This ramp is also operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers and is typically open from April 1 to September 30.

In addition to the options mentioned above, there are several other boat ramps located around Lake Lavon, some of which are free to access. It is always a good idea to check for any closures or updates before planning a trip to the lake. Additionally, with the presence of zebra mussels in the reservoir, it is important to remember to clean, drain, and dry your boat and other equipment before traveling to another water body, as required by law.

Collin Park Marina is the primary marina on Lake Lavon

Collin Park Marina is operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers, who also maintain 15 lakeside parks with boat ramps and other facilities around Lake Lavon. A launch fee is required at some ramps, and an annual pass is available. The Army Corps of Engineers publishes a closure report, which should be checked before visiting as some parks and boat ramps are closed due to high water or flood damage.

The marina itself offers a number of amenities, including a fully-stocked Ships Store, a service department, and a restaurant. There is also the option to store your boat at the marina, with slips available for boats of all types and sizes. The park has RV and tent sites, a sandy beach, boat ramps, and dry storage.

Collin Park Marina has two four-lane boat ramps, with a park entry fee required. One ramp is located inside the park and the other is just outside, with a courtesy dock provided at the inside ramp. The inside ramp is open from 6 am to 10 pm, from April 1 to September 30, while the outside ramp is open 24 hours a year-round.

Zebra mussels have invaded Lake Lavon

The US Army Corps of Engineers operates 15 lakeside parks with boat ramps and other facilities on Lake Lavon. A launch fee is required at some ramps, and some facilities may be closed from time to time due to high water or flood damage. The Army Corps of Engineers provides status updates on closures.

Zebra mussels are small, non-native shellfish that can cause significant economic, recreational, and environmental damage. They were first discovered in Texas in Lake Texoma in 2009 and have since spread to numerous other lakes and rivers in the state. These mussels can clog pipes, damage boat motors, and make beach-walking hazardous with their sharp edges. There are currently no large-scale environmentally safe methods for eradicating zebra mussels, so prevention and containment are crucial.

Lake Lavon is one of several lakes in Texas where zebra mussels or their larvae have been detected on multiple occasions. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has implemented regulations and educational campaigns to raise awareness among boaters and prevent the spread of these invasive species. It is important for boaters to follow these guidelines to protect Texas's lakes and rivers from the harmful effects of zebra mussels.

The invasion of zebra mussels in Lake Lavon and other Texas waterways underscores the ongoing battle against invasive species and the need for proactive measures. By cleaning, draining, and drying their equipment, boaters can play a crucial role in preventing the spread and helping to safeguard Texas's aquatic ecosystems and the industries that depend on them.

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