Last updated: March 4, 2024
Thing to Do
Boating at Amistad
NPS Photo
From open water to narrow, steeply walled canyons, Lake 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. It is recommended that all passengers wear life jackets (also called life vests, PFDs, or Personal Flotation Devices) while on the water. And, be sure to adequately prepare yourself and your vessel for a great time on the reservoir! Our brochure on boating will provide additional information.
Details
Activity
Boating
From open water to narrow, steeply walled canyons, Lake 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. It is recommended that all passengers wear life jackets (also called life vests, PFDs, or Personal Flotation Devices) while on the water. And, be sure to adequately prepare yourself and your vessel for a great time on the reservoir! Our brochure on boating will provide additional information.
Pets Allowed
Yes
Pets must be on a 6-foot leash attached to a person or stationary object, and their waste needs to be disposed of in a waste receptacle.
Activity Fee
Yes
Amistad National Recreation Area charges a lake use fee for all watercraft requiring State registration. Lake use fees for the US side of the reservoir are:
- $4 for a 1-day pass (24 hours from time of purchase)
- $10 for a 3-day pass (72 hours from time of purchase)
- $50 for an annual pass (one year from the month of purchase)
Senior and Access Pass holders are entitled to a 50% discount on user fees.
Lake Use Passes can be purchased at Amistad Visitor Center daily from 8 am to 4:30 pm or at automated fee machines located: on the outside of the Diablo East restroom, outside of the Rough Canyon Visitor Center, or at the fee machine at Box Canyon.
Location
Boating at Amistad National Recreation Area
The main launch 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 Pecos. Depending on lake conditions, these ramps may or may not be open. For more information on which boat ramps are open, call the Visitor Center or visit the park website.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
Accessible parking is available for visitors who need to park closer to the boat ramp due to a permanent disability. Amistad National Recreation Area's disability parking permit can be obtained at the Visitor Center by the owner of the accessibility placard or tag (license plate) presenting proof of identification and the placard or tag. The accessibility tag or placard must be displayed on the vehicle in addition to the park's permit. Please note that even with the closer parking spaces there still may be extended and steep walks down the ramps when reservoir levels are very low.