Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
Tulare County Closes Kings River to Motorized Watercraft Over Hazardous Conditions
ANTHONY SITE PHOTO
By Anthony W. Haddad
Published 29 minutes ago on
May 15, 2026

The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office has closed the Kings River to boats, jet skis and other motorized watercraft because of dangerous water flow and submerged hazards, while allowing swimming and floating to continue with caution. (Tulare County SO)

Share

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Tulare County portion of the Kings River has been closed to boats, jet skis, and other motorized watercraft because of dangerous water levels and flow conditions, authorities said Thursday.

Sheriff Mike Boudreaux announced the closure after an assessment of the river found numerous hazards, including sand bars, tree trunks, logs and wood debris beneath the water’s surface in several areas, according to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said the unseen hazards make it extremely dangerous for motorized watercraft to safely navigate the river within Tulare County.

The river remains open for other recreational activities, including swimming and floating. The sheriff’s office urged people to use caution and wear personal flotation devices while in the water.

The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office Marine Enforcement Unit will patrol the area and enforce the motorized watercraft restrictions.

The closure will remain in effect until further notice.

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email

RELATED TOPICS:

Anthony W. Haddad,
Multimedia Journalist
Anthony W. Haddad, who graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with his undergraduate degree and attended Fresno State for a MBA, is the Swiss Army knife of GV Wire. He writes stories, manages social media, and represents the organization on the ground.

Search

Keep the news you rely on coming. Support our work today.

Send this to a friend