WAXAHACHIE SNORKEL FIELD GUIDE
Snorkel Paddle Day Excursion: Cove Raft-Ups, Rock Ledges and Crystal-Clear Water at Lake Murray
A daylong social paddle and snorkel outing into a secluded mile-long cove at Lake Murray State Park—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and how the event runs.
Snorkel Paddle Day Excursion: Cove Raft-Ups, Rock Ledges and Crystal-Clear Water at Lake Murray.
Join a memorable day at Lake Murray State Park where paddlers of all skill levels float, snorkel and explore a secluded one-mile cove with consistently clear water, rocky ledges, sandy pockets and an island to visit—an easy social paddle that combines snorkeling, shell-collecting, and a treasure-map scavenger hunt with a catered, raft-up lunch and floating toys.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Crystal-clear cove and snorkel-ready ledges
The excursion centers on a secluded one-mile cove with consistent water clarity—ideal for snorkeling rock ledges, searching nook coves and spotting fish from shallow to deeper pockets across varied bottom habitat.
Laid-back raft-ups, floating toys and a social paddle
Participants float and raft-up for the day with Bote water toys on hand—floating hammocks, couches and hangouts—plus snacks, fresh fruit and bottled water; the day is built to be social and relaxed so you can paddle, snorkel or lounge at your own pace.
Treasure-map hunt and shell collecting
Attendees receive a treasure map highlighting spots for all skill levels—snorkel shell-collecting along rock ledges, island visits and fish-viewing—so everyone can tailor their day from active exploration to easy snorkeling.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You meet at the ramp, launch into a sheltered no-wake cove, and spend a two-hour social paddle exploring rock ledges, sandy pockets and an island; groups raft-up, deploy floating toys and enjoy a catered spread while snorkelers and paddlers drift between play spots at their own pace.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should be cautious.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Meetup at 10:00am with launch at 10:30am; the paddle is structured as a two-hour social outing with scheduled rest and photo breaks.
The meeting location is 13528 Scenic U.S. 77, Ardmore, OK 73401; Lake Murray State Park day-use and parking fees apply and you must purchase parking for each vehicle—check in at the main office for fees and camping availability.
Bring sun protection—a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and sunglasses—and a cell phone for photos. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available by reservation when you book your ticket.
Tickets are required (will be available online) and cost $25 per person; active law enforcement and park rangers attend free. Each attendee receives a small flashlight, whistle and glow stick.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What time do I need to arrive and when do we launch?
Meetup is at 10:00am and launch is scheduled for 10:30am.
What are the age and life-jacket rules for children?
Kids are welcome from age 5 and must be at least 48 inches to paddle; by law all kids 13 and under must wear a life jacket.
Can I rent a kayak or paddleboard at the event?
Yes—kayak and paddleboard rentals are available by reservation only; reserve online when you book your ticket.
What does the ticket price include and are there any concessions?
The event fee is $25 per person (free for LEO or park rangers); organizers provide fresh fruit, snacks and bottled water and each person receives a small flashlight, whistle and glow stick. VIP tickets include a floating catered lunch and additional Bote gear.
What happens if weather or wind conditions are poor?
The event requires low winds and clear skies; if conditions are not met it will move to the next Saturday with good conditions.
Is moderate drinking allowed?
Moderate drinking is allowed on the trip as BYOB.
Do I need to pay park parking or camping fees?
Yes—Lake Murray State Park requires you purchase parking for each vehicle; camping is available separately and often fills up.