Marinas anticipate sunny days ahead as storms slow start to summer season in Oklahoma

A rainy start to the Memorial Day weekend is keeping crowds away from Green Country lakes, leaving marinas with a quieter-than-usual start to the summer season.

At Skiatook Lake, fewer boats are on the water, but some families say they aren’t letting the weather ruin their tradition.

Rain Impacts Boating Activities

“It’s been pretty quiet out there. I think 10 boats is the most I’ve seen,” said Jason Griffith, who traveled from Kansas with his family for their annual Memorial Day trip.

“This is our annual Memorial weekend trip, so we just come rain or shine,” Griffith said.

While they hoped for sunshine, Griffith says they’ve been watching the radar closely and getting out on the lake when it’s safe.

“We’re staying 20 minutes from the lake, hitting it when we can,” he said.

Marina Perspectives on Business and Outlook

Over at CrossTimbers Marina, it’s just as quiet.

“It’s been a few years since we’ve had a complete rain out, but we’ll just take what we’re given and hopefully the season lasts well into September and we have a good time,” said Hank Spencer, general manager at the marina.

Spencer says business has been slow so far due to the wet conditions, but he’s encouraged by short breaks in the rain.

“The last two days we did get a few hours of sunshine and the marina did pick up immediately. We did see some good traffic,” he said.

Looking Ahead to Future Weekends

Even with the recent rainfall, Spencer believes the lake and the season are in good shape.

“The lake is full, which is good. A little bit high, but nothing that’s going to slow us down for the season,” he said.

Marina staff say there is some storm debris around the lake, but expect cleanup to be manageable.

They’re now looking ahead to future weekends and the Fourth of July holiday. Rentals are still available, but they recommend planning ahead.