Boating and Fishing

The Boathouse is opening for the 2026 season on Saturday, May 16th at 7am.

The boathouse will be open on Saturdays and Sundays throughout May. The boathouse will open on Fridays beginning May 29th. Daily hours are 7am to 3pm. NOTE: Jon boat rentals are dependent on water levels and may not be available. Call 919-661-6982 for current boat options.

Note that personal watercraft (e.g., boats, canoes, kayaks, standup paddleboards) are not allowed in the lake at any time.

Lake Benson Boathouse

975 Buffaloe Road
Garner, NC 27529
919.247.3446

Lake Benson Boathouse is located just down the road from Lake Benson Park. Jon boats, canoes and kayaks are available to rent. There is no charge to fish from the dock. Dock fishing is only available when the boathouse is open. All rentals are on a first come, first served basis.

Interested in seeing more about boating on Lake Benson? Check out this video.

Rates

Jon Boats (with trolling motor and battery): $10/hour; $40/day for Town of Garner residents; $15/hour; $60/day for non-residents
Jon Boats (without trolling motor and battery): $5/hour for Town of Garner residents; $8/hour for non-residents (no daily rate)
Canoes & Kayaks: $5/hour for Town of Garner residents; $8/hour for non-residents

All rentals include oars/paddles and personal flotation devices.

Cash and credit card payments accepted.

Lake Use Policies and Regulations

Launching of private watercraft is prohibited.
Swimming and wading are prohibited.
Renters must be at least 16 years of age.
Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. Persons consuming alcohol of any type will be denied use of the lake and adjoining city property.
The possession or use of firearms is strictly prohibited.
Boats are to be operated at all times in a manner that will not infringe upon the rights of other boaters or endanger lives and property of others.
No dock fishing or boat rentals during inclement or threatening weather. See Inclement Weather Protocol.
N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission regulations apply while using this facility.
Animals are not allowed in the water, boats, kayaks or canoes.
There is a maximum of 3 people per jon boat. (See below for weight limits.)
For the safety of our patrons, we observe the weight limits posted by manufacturers. Please note these include passengers and any equipment (e.g. batteries).
- Jon Boats: 370 lbs
- Canoes: 600 lbs
- Tandem Kayaks: 275 lbs per seat
- Solo Kayaks: 300 lbs

Fishing information

Fishing is allowed from the bank at Lake Benson Park (please stay within park boundaries) and from the dock at the Lake Benson Boathouse. N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission regulations apply while using this facility.

Any person 16 and older fishing in public waters must have a fishing license. Children under 16 years of age must be with a licensed adult to fish. Short-term (10-day) or annual fishing licenses can be purchased online from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission or at local retail outlets (e.g. Cabela’s).

Garner Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Social Media

Lake Benson Park Social Media

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garnerprcr@garnernc.gov | 919-773-4442