Boating Rules and Regulations

Boating shall be permitted at the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve from April 1 through November 15, subject to the following regulations:

• Only boats, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or similar watercraft that are typically transported on top or inside vehicles and have been transported to the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve on top or inside a vehicle may be used in the designated areas of the upper basin only. Surfboards and all other craft designed to be operated while standing are prohibited. For purposes of this section, these watercraft shall be referred to as boats.
• These boats may only be transported into the park on top or inside of vehicles.
• Boats transported by a trailer are prohibited.
• Motors of any sort are prohibited.
• Boats may only be launched from the designated boat launch, which is located adjacent to the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve’s parking area off of High Mountain Road.
• Swimming or entering the water from shore or from boats is prohibited.
• Boating shall only be permitted from April 1 through November 15.
• Boating shall only be permitted from dawn to dusk.
• Children under the age of 16 are not permitted on boats without adult supervision.
• Loud music from boats is prohibited.
• Personal flotation devices must be worn by the operator of the boat and all passengers.
• Boats shall be hand-carried from the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve parking area to the designated boat launch.