Palo Gaucho Bayou offers some of the most scenic backwaters on the lake and is known for both its great kayak fishing and wildlife viewing. The trail is approximately 9 miles long and is about a 5 hour adventure. It is possible to extend that distance into the far reaches of the bayou. This is an advanced skill level trail, and times should be anticipated for your party that take into consideration physical ability and whether you'd like a leisurely or more challenging pace. Because of the length of the trail and the possibility of rougher waters and boat wakes, we limit rentals to our more stable Premium Kayaks and do not rent our Standard or Tandem Kayaks for this trail. Children must be 13 years or older and experienced paddlers for this advanced skill level trail.
We meet you and launch from Sandals and Spurs Resort (Formerly Harborlight Marina), 3150 Palo Gaucho Xing, Hemphill, Texas 75948. There is a convenience store on site with snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and other supplies.
With cooler weather and water temperatures it is not always safe to be out on the water in a kayak, therefore we do not rent when water temperatures are below 70 degrees unless the renter has appropriate cold water gear such as a wetsuit or drysuit. Learn more about cold water safety at the National Center For Cold Water Safety.
Rates:
Premium Single Kayaks, Total Weight Limit 290lbs
- $75 Per Day
All Rental Fees Are Subject To Sales Tax
Total Weight Limits include you, your gear, water, etc. If you are close to the weight limit on a Standard Kayak, you'll need to upgrade to the Premium Kayak.
Rates Include: Each kayak comes with a USCG approved life vest that we will fit, paddle with lanyard, safety whistle and waterproof phone case. Fishing set ups are provided on request at no cost and include a rod holder and lanyard for your rod.
Rates do not include Resort Launch Fees of $5 per kayak and are payable at the resort store located at the entrance to the park.
RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE AT LEAST A DAY IN ADVANCE by completing our Kayak Reservation Form, giving us a call or texting to 936-201-6495. We'll contact you to confirm availability of kayaks, dates and times. Our schedule is set by 5pm the day prior. Reservation Forms received after 5pm will be addressed the following day as our schedule allows. This allows us to check current weather reports, plan loads and routes and clean kayaks between trips. Because we have a limited number of kayaks and they go fast, please reserve well in advance on holidays and weekends.
ABSOLUTELY NO SAME DAY OR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY SERVICES!
We do not hold kayaks without a completed Liability Waiver on file for each person including children. If you will be delayed more than 15 minutes later than your scheduled launch time please text or call 936-201-6495.
Each person who will be using a kayak will need to complete our Liability Waiver in advance via the link here on the website. A Rental Contract is also required by individuals or the person responsible for the group or party and can be completed in advance to save time at the ramp.
Parents must complete our Liability Waiver for minors under 18 years old. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Please arrive 15 minutes ahead of your scheduled launch time to receive fitting and equipment instruction.
What if the weather is bad? For safety, we do not deliver kayaks during prolonged rain events, flooding, thunderstorms, high winds, or on weather alert days. If dangerous weather occurs and we need to cancel your trip we will notify you as soon as the Weather Service has a firm prediction, usually 24 to 48 hours in advance. We'll work with you to reschedule your trip. While kayaks are in your possession please use your discretion and be weather aware.
Please respect the wildlife. Do not feed the animals and allow them plenty of distance.
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