How do I access Southshore Park?

Southshore Park is a public boat ramp in Texas. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Southshore Park?

Southshore Park 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 Southshore Park?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Southshore Park?

The best time to paddle at Southshore Park is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round

What are the water conditions at Southshore Park?

Water conditions at Southshore Park include calm, sheltered.

Is Southshore Park good for beginners?

Yes, Southshore Park 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.

Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Southshore Park

Jacksonville, TX · Boat Ramp · Public

Southshore Park is a public boat ramp on Gum Creek - Lake Jacksonville near Jacksonville, 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

Good

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

About This Location

Launch into Gum Creek - Lake Jacksonville near Jacksonville, Texas. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Southshore Park is a public access point on Gum Creek - Lake Jacksonville in Texas, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

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 Jacksonville takes about 5 min, putting Southshore Park within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Planning a trip? Read our complete paddler's guide to Jacksonville.

Launch points, tips, and local conditions →

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Southshore Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Southshore Park?: Southshore Park is a public boat ramp in Texas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Southshore Park?: Southshore Park 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 Southshore Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Southshore Park?: The best time to paddle at Southshore Park is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Southshore Park?: Water conditions at Southshore Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Southshore Park good for beginners?: Yes, Southshore Park 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: 31.9018, -95.3087