Denton Creek

This is a great spot to bring beginners to work on rolls, ferries, eddy turns, and peel-outs.

Level****Description

400-775 cfs

At this level, there is a small hole on river left that is good for side surfing, and a small wave just to the right of the hole.  Eddy lines are OK at this level but a little shallow at the top of the eddy.800-975 cfs This is the best level.  The hole has a two-foot foam pile but no vertical stuff (still too shallow.)  There is one small wave/hole to the right of the main hole, and in the center there is a nice two-foot wave.  Good level for squirts!1000-1250 cfs

At this level, the hole washes out.  The wave is still there, but it's a little hard to stay in.  Eddy lines are strong and deep at this level.

1350 cfs and above At this level, everything washes out.

NOTE

The Grapevine gauge may give a hint as to the release level, but it will be affected by runoff as well.  New beta suggests that the streambed has shifted above the play spot, sending more water to river right than before.  A 700 cfs dam release (refer to the Army Corps of Engineers Fish Report >> TRINITY RIVER BASIN >> GRAPEVINE) is now the recommended minimum level.

ACCESS

Beta from paddlers says that the two gates described in the directions have 'Keep Out' signs on them, but one paddler contacted the Army Corps and learned of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Corps and American Whitewater that waives these restrictions for whitewater boaters.

Update 3/2018:  A paddler has reported being turned away by security personnel despite mentioning the MOU.  Upon contacting the Corps of Engineers, he learned that they are no longer aware of any MOU.  The local paddling community is seeking information or assistance regarding regaining legal access to Denton Creek.

Update 5/2021:

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