6/25/2008 8:39:00 AM Full speed ahead ... High fuel prices not keeping boats off the water Reservations are up for Ohio’s state parks this year
The rising cost of fuel hasn’t kept boats at the docks this year. “We’ve not really seen an impact,” Southern Regional Administrator for Ohio State Parks Jon Dobney said. “If anything it’s the opposite.”
As gas prices continue to rise, camp managers at Rocky Fork State Park aren't concerned that boats will stay on the docks this summer.
"A lot (of people) have come out already," said Debbie Daulton, camp coordinator at RFL.
The lake has 600 public docks and 200 cluster docks. Already, 470 of the public docks are full. Although this is less than last summer, Southern Regional Administrator for Ohio State Parks Jon Dobney said, "We've not really seen an impact. If anything, it's the opposite."
Both Dobney and Daulton concur that more people are likely to stay closer to home instead of heading to bigger lakes such as Lake Cumberland for a summer vacation.
At RFL and Paint Creek Lake marinas, the gas hovers at $4.29 a gallon for 89 octane used in most boats.
Memorial Day was the official kickoff of the boating season and while Dobney said it was a busy weekend, poor weather conditions throughout May kept many boaters from getting into the water.
"As a division, reservations are up," Dobney said. "There are 100,000 more reservations for all Ohio state parks than last year."
While most reservations are for camping, many people bring boats along. Dobney said boat engines are being redesigned, making them easier on gas.
He added that while there are more docks available so far this year, the ramps have been consistent. Many people are bringing their boats in on trailers rather than leaving them at the lake, he said.
There is definitely no shortage of additional activities at RFL and Paint Creek for those who aren't willing to pay the price for a weekend trip on the water. The parks offer swimming, disc golf, camping, fishing, and more.
"There's something for everyone," Dobney said.
For those who want to go boating, RFL has 2,080 acres of water available. Daulton said, "There's quite a bit of room."
