Boater's ParadiseFrom open water to narrow, steeply walled canyons, Amistad is a great place for boating. The park boundary extends 74 miles up the Rio Grande, 25 miles up the Devils River, and 14 miles up the Pecos River. Protected coves abound, providing superb fishing and ideal camping spots. Amistad is an international reservoir. The US-Mexico border is marked by buoys numbered "RG1" to "RG28" that follow the historic channel of the Rio Grande. All Texas State boating rules and regulations are followed on the reservoir and recreational boating safety is expected. Boaters need to follow the Clean, Drain, Dry guidance to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Our brochure on boating will provide additional information. Lake Use PassesAmistad National Recreation Area charges a lake use fee for all watercraft requiring State registration. Mexican PermitsInformation on Mexican permits can be obtained locally from:
Boat RampsThe main boat ramps are located at Diablo East, Rough Canyon, Box Canyon, and Southwinds (U.S. Air Force) Marina. Ramps are also available at Blackbrush Point, 277 North, 277 South, Spur 406, Spur 454, and the Pecos River. Depending on lake conditions, these ramps may or may not be open. Boat Ramp Status*** Because of fluctuating lake levels, boat ramp status may change quickly; keep checking this page for updated boat ramp conditions.As of August 15, 2022, the reservoir hit a new historic low. The water surface was 1,052.48 feet above mean sea level (ams), and the reservoir was 30.3% full. At this time, the lake levels have begun rising. On March 31, 2023, the lake level was 1,076.88 feet ams and was at 39.6% of capacity. Please continue to remain vigilant for potential water hazards and--of course--clean, drain, and dry boats and all equipment every time you leave the water.
Commercial Boat RentalsSee a list of current Guides and Rentals MarinasSouthwinds MarinaSouthwinds (US Air Force) Marina is available to active and retired military personnel. U.S. Air Force does sell marine gas to the public at Southwinds Marina. This is the only location on the lake where marine gas is available. Marine gas is available to the public Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Rough Canyon MarinaRough Canyon Rentals, LLC, has a lease with the park and rents boat slips and mooring buoys at the Rough Canyon Marina. They also have a sewage pump-out dock at their facility. They do not sell boat gas, and there are currently no boats available for rent. They are located 23 miles northwest of Del Rio, about seven miles west of U.S. Highway 277 N on Recreation Road #2. Rough Canyon Rentals LLC (325) 213-6950 Water SkiingWater skiing is permitted at Amistad. However, there is no commercial skiing available, so you must bring your own boat and skis. |
Last updated: March 31, 2023