Elevated Water Levels Prompt Temporary Boat Ramp Closures Along St. Johns River and Intracoastal Waterway in Volusia County

Posted On: November 6, 2026

Several Volusia County-maintained boat ramps along the St. Johns River and Intracoastal Waterway have temporarily closed due to elevated water levels and hazardous conditions. While significant rainfall in the region earlier this week has contributed to rising water levels along the St. Johns River, the current king tide cycle is affecting boat ramps along the Intracoastal Waterway.

The County expects boat ramps along the St. Johns River to remain closed for an extended period as elevated water levels continue to create unsafe conditions for launching and retrieving vessels. Submerged parking areas and underwater debris pose risks to boaters. The County will reopen these facilities once water levels recede and staff determine that conditions are safe.

Along the Intracoastal Waterway, the current king tide cycle is causing significant fluctuations in water levels throughout the day. During high tide, rising water can submerge boat ramps, docks, and adjacent parking areas, making these facilities hazardous or inaccessible. These conditions can be particularly deceiving because affected ramps may appear safe and accessible during low tide, only to become submerged again as water levels rise. Boaters should not assume a facility is open or safe to use simply because water levels have temporarily receded.

The County anticipates that affected boat ramps along the Intracoastal Waterway will remain closed through late next week, when the current king tide cycle is expected to conclude. However, reopening will depend on water levels and the results of safety assessments conducted by County staff.

Volusia County Parks and Recreation staff will continue monitoring water levels, ramp conditions, and the stability of associated structures to determine when facilities can safely reopen. Residents and visitors should observe all posted closures and avoid using boat ramps or docks that are submerged or otherwise unsafe.

Boaters traveling along the St. Johns River and its connected waterways should also exercise caution and observe all posted restrictions. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has established idle-speed, no-wake restrictions in several areas along the river. Boat wakes can push additional water onto already vulnerable shorelines, potentially damaging nearby properties, docks, and other structures. Boaters should reduce their speed to minimize wakes and avoid contributing to additional erosion and property damage. Those planning activities along the Intracoastal Waterway should review local tide predictions and remain alert to changing water conditions.

Residents and visitors can find the latest information on the status of Volusia County's boat ramps, including temporary closures and reopening updates, at www.volusia.gov/boatramp.