Area campground owners take recent rains in stride

MAUD, Texas - Water, water everywhere and not a drop to drink.

At Kelly Creek Landing on Lake Wright Patman Lake, co-owner Shelley Jennings has been dealing with large amounts of rain.

"We were as full as we could be over the Memorial Day weekend in dealing with the flooding," Jennings said. "The water is still high and is rising. We had more rain last night. We haven't been able to get rid of all of the water to get all of our campgrounds opened back up yet."

Any heavy rain that is west of the landing flows down to Kelly Creek. If Cooper Lake gets a big rain, the waters will eventually make their way to the campgrounds in about two to three days.

The boat ramp was open over the weekend, and many people turned out to fish or to enjoy a ride on their boats. There are many fisherman who trotline while camping at Kelly Creek.

Many families enjoyed the Memorial Day weekend camping.

"I think families were enjoying getting out of their house and being together in the outdoors," Jennings said. "People were hanging out at their campsite, walking and riding bicycles. We had boaters who just enjoyed riding around the lake and others were tubing. Most of the campers come to fish.

"It is healthy for people's minds to get out of the house. Also, the sunshine is good for people. We didn't have any incidents. Everyone acted just fine; that is a great bonus for us."

Kelly Creek does not have a designated swimming area. The general public cannot fish or swim at Kelly Creek. There is no beach, but very few still swim. Sometimes children wade on the edge with their parents.

Jennings' biggest challenge is mother nature. Kelly Creek Landing has flooded many times over the past 10 years. The best part for her are the friends she has made over the years with the return campers.

"We look at each flood and learn how to better streamline it for the next flood," Jennings said. "In a case of an evacuation, we want to make it as smooth as possible. It is never a rush because my husband, Leon, watches the water up river and the gauges. He can tell how far the water will rise overnight. We know which campground sections to close based on the water level. It's just part of running a campground.

"The campers become like family. We have family coming out here longer than the 20 years that we have been out here. During crappie season, there is a set group that likes to crappie fish. It's the same thing with the catfishing. I enjoying getting to know the people. Leon and I both love the people."

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