Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Fort Sherman Dam #1

Winfield, TX · Boat Ramp · Public

Fort Sherman Dam #1 is a public boat ramp on Big Cypress Creek - Lake Bob Sandlin near Winfield, Texas. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Launch into Big Cypress Creek - Lake Bob Sandlin near Winfield, Texas. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Fort Sherman Dam #1 is a public access point on Big Cypress Creek - Lake Bob Sandlin in Texas, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. Year-round is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Winfield takes about 10 min, putting Fort Sherman Dam #1 within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Fort Sherman Dam #1 ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Fort Sherman Dam #1?
Fort Sherman Dam #1 is a public boat ramp in Texas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Fort Sherman Dam #1?
Fort Sherman Dam #1 supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Fort Sherman Dam #1?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Fort Sherman Dam #1?
The best time to paddle at Fort Sherman Dam #1 is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Fort Sherman Dam #1?
Water conditions at Fort Sherman Dam #1 include calm, sheltered.
Is Fort Sherman Dam #1 good for beginners?
Yes, Fort Sherman Dam #1 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 33.0914, -95.0129

Quick Facts

State
Texas
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~10 min from Winfield
Get Directions

33.0914, -95.0129

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