Smithville Lake is a Corp of Engineers lake designed for flood control and recreation. Annual lake fluctuations of three to five feet are normal but have negligible effect on the sailboat community. Close proximity to Kansas City, around 7,600 acres, with parks and facilities well maintained by Clay County Parks and Recreation positions this jewel as one of the areas preferred sailing venues.
Three marinas service Smithville, with Sailboat Cove restricted to sailboats only. Sailboat Cove has slips for nearly 70 boats and mooring balls for another 20. Included is a Dry Sail fenced storage area for boats on a trailer, a Mast Pole for safe installation and removal of the mast and standing rigging, and a large launch area and ramp for sailboat use only. Covered picnic areas and modern washroom facilities equipped with showers complete the amenities.
To reach Sailboat Cove, take Highway W east from Highway 169 north of Smithville, Missouri, toward Paradise, Missouri, on the east side of Smithville lake. Arriving in Paradise, turn back west on Paradise Road after the white Baptist Church and before the convenience store. The road is marked by a brown Clay County Parks sign, “Sailboat Cove”.
Clay County Parks and Recreation Links
US Army Corps of Engineers Links