The drought conditions in the Roanoke River basin have resulted in very low water levels in Kerr Lake and as a result many of the boat ramps are closed. As of December 6, 2012, the lake level was just under 293 feet and expected to drop over the next few days. That’s almost seven feet below the lake level at “full pool.”
Park Rangers advise that boaters should use extreme caution when launching a boat and watch out for logs and sand bars in the lake. They should also be on the lookout for exposed debris and be very observant of danger buoys. Boaters need to slow down and be cautious while operating their vessels. In any water condition it is always important to keep a life jacket on yourself and your family when in a boat or on the shoreline.
For the latest information on lake elevations and ramp closures, please call the John H. Kerr Powerhouse 24-hour recording line at 434-738-6633, ext. 275. You may also contact any park ranger at the Visitor Assistance Center, 434-738-6143, Monday – Friday.
Here are the boat ramps closed as of December 6, 2012.
>> Eagle Point
>> North Bend Main Ramp (Area A Ramp is open)
>> Palmer Point
>> Staunton View
>> Rudds Creek Day Use Area
>> Bullocksville
>> Henderson Point, Shelter 2 & Shelter 3
>> Nutbush Creek North Area
>> J.C. Cooper Campground
>> Satterwhite Point Marina Public Ramp
>> Occoneechie #2
And these ramps are closed for the season:
>> Kimbell Point
>> Hybernia
>> Henderson Point
