Is there a state run service/ferry that takes people across Matagorda Bay to the island to camp for a few days? I've heard of something but can't find it. Looking to take some kayaks out and fish both the bay and gulf for a weekend while camping.

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Location - Matagorda Island State Park is situated within the Gulf Coast region of Texas. The headquarters is in Port O'Connor at the intersection of 16th Street and Maples. The only access is by boat; the Matagorda Ferry is a 50-foot, aluminum-hull boat certified to transport 49 passengers that operates on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There is a fee, and surfboards and bicycles are allowed on the ferry which departs from Port O'Connor. There is a shuttle fee charged to visitors who bring their own boat; the shuttle fee is included in the visitors' ferry fee. Contact the park for ferry schedule/use detail.

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Phone: (979) 244-6804
Address:
1700 7th St.
Bay City, TX 77414
Contact: Todd Merendino

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[This message has been edited by jasontjames (edited 8/15/2008 11:00a).]

You might want to give them a call:

TPWD Site:

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/huntwild/hunt/wma/find_a_wma/list/?id=48

Lighthouse info:

http://www.matagordalighthouse.com/tourism.html

MAP:

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/pwdpubs/media/park_maps/pwd_mp_p4502_134.pdf

thanks fellas

I'd be interested in a trip report when you're back.

Take heed in the warning about the mosquitoes. They're bad down there. Take lots of off and even citronella candles if you have room for them.

As Tx4guns said the Mosquitos are down right horrible. Dated a girl a few years back and her family rented a place right on the main road that backed up the the main canal. During the day not so bad because of the wind at night. Had to go inside. Her dad would spray something about every 30 minutes and it would help but trying to get in and out of the house they were in the thousands.

They would get in your ear, nose mouth. It just sucked. I swore I would never go again for that reason.

The ferry was burned by vandals a few years ago. I am pretty sure they haven't had the money to fix it or replace it. Damn shame.

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I too thought they stopped running the ferry several years ago. I would call and confirm

I think these folks are right about the ferry. You can probably call a guide service and they will take you.

Take plenty of bug repellent and sunblock. Prepare your food as much as possible ahead of time, as there will be sand everywhere. Sand in the food is no good. Trust me on this.

sounds like a good time to invest in mosquito nets for your heads (and possibly beds).

I had a friend haul me over there in his boat a few years back to do some rattlesnake hunting. I came back with zero snakes and at least a couple hundred mosquito bites. Horrible experience. Take lots of mosquito spray. Solitude is great though.

The ferry has been out of service for several years and the park is no longer manned by TP&W personnel. We used to take the boat over and dock at the park where TP&W would haul you to the beach and bring you back for $2/ person.

I have dodged a few thunderstorms there.

Also, the coons will carry away any food that is not covered and weighted down.