Makinson Island Conservation Area

Laurie Walworth

Could not find using Google maps. Sent me to a residential neighborhood, then told me I had 'reached my destination'. No I hadn't! Could not find any access points, and website never mentioned that the area must be accessed via personal boat. Very poor advertising for those not local to the area.

James

Closest boat ramps are Big Toho Marina or Granada, both are free and Big Toho has tons of parking. A few mile ride to the island from either ramp. About a 60' boat dock at island and plenty of shoreline to beach a boat/kayak/airboat. About a 200 yard walk to the campsites. A wagon or dolly can be pulled across the grassy lawn. Sites are under/around large oaks. 25+ mph winds on the lake when we went, but campsite wind was under 10mph. Fire ring with grilling grate. Bring firewood or small chainsaw to cut up dead oak limbs on ground. Trash can and picnic table at each site. No running water or electricity. A few streetlights illuminate the area at night. Raccoons present, so store food/trash properly. 2 outhouse style toilets, no sink or shower. Went in Feb and no trash pileup or tall grass as others have complained about. Biggest complaint were the commercial jets which flew directly overhead about every 15 minutes all the way until 3am. Even with earplugs, hard to sleep. Otherwise, a great, primitive camping experience.

Gus Yak

Beautiful place. Needs more maintenance, trash cans are full and sign need update. Still have Jeb Bush as our Governor.. what!!! Saw goats, deers, Coons and lot of birds..wild hogs destroy pastures...

David Malott

135 acre Island maintained as a county park. It has composting toilets, shellters, fire ring , primitive camp sites, and a hiking trail around the inside perimeter. It has a marshland around the outside perimeter. Wild life is abundant in the marsh and on the island. Oh yea , it is beautiful. You can leave from The Docks at Marsh Landing on Shingle Creek off of Pleasant Hill Rd for a nice paddle out to the island. Kayak and canoe rentals as well as guides available at The Docks.