Bonitaville Restaurant

For a motorboat over 15 horsepower or a personal watercraft on Texas public waters, the minimum age to operate without supervision is 13, but the rental operator decides the minimum age for renting. Under Parks and Wildlife Code Sections 31.106 and 31.107, an operator under 13 must be supervised by someone at least 18 who can lawfully operate the craft and is on board while it is under way. Boater education is based on birth date: to operate alone, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must meet the requirement for a motorboat over 15 horsepower, a windblown vessel over 14 feet, or any personal watercraft, and carry photo ID and the certification card. Confirm the operator’s age policy when booking.

Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (tpwd.texas.gov)

Yes, some recreational operators in Texas need boater education certification, though the state does not call it a boating license. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department requires certification for anyone born on or after September 1, 1993, who operates a PWC, motorboat over 15 horsepower, or sailboat over 14 feet. Covered operators must carry photo ID and proof of certification.

A person must be at least 13 to operate alone; younger operators need an eligible operator age 18 or older onboard. Renters are not exempt. Alternatives include onboard supervision, a valid U.S. Coast Guard operator license, or a one-time 15-day deferral, which is available only to those 18 or over. Approved online courses provide a 60-day temporary certificate.

Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (tpwd.texas.gov)

From Graford, the practical boating choice is Possum Kingdom Lake, where you can alternate between open, deeper water and rocky shoreline coves. Make Hell’s Gate your sightseeing stop: boats pass between tall cliffs into a protected cove popular for swimming and gathering. Scenic Cove Campground is a convenient put-in with a ramp and courtesy dock. The Public Boat Ramp on FM 2951 accommodates all boat types at varying lake levels. South D&D adds another ramp, courtesy dock and fishing pier, making it a useful starting point for anglers or anyone planning to explore the lake’s coves.

Source: Brazos River Authority (brazos.org)

From Graford, boaters make day trips across Possum Kingdom Lake to Hell’s Gate, Scenic Cove Campground, North D&D and South D&D. Hell’s Gate is the lake’s best-known landmark at its most popular cove, and visitors can see it only by boat or personal watercraft. Scenic Cove offers a courtesy dock, fishing pier and trailhead for a shore break. North D&D combines a courtesy dock with a designated swim area and playground, while South D&D pairs its courtesy dock with a fishing pier and trailhead.

Source: Brazos River Authority (brazos.org)