May 15, 2026 – Tulare County Sheriff's Office officials report that due to dangerous water levels and flow, Sheriff Boudreaux has announced the Tulare County portion of the Kings River will be closed to motorized watercraft until further notice.

An assessment of the river showed numerous hazards, including sand bars, tree trunks, logs and wood debris just below the surface of the water in several areas. These unseen hazards make it extremely dangerous for any type of motorized watercraft to safely navigate the Kings River within Tulare County at this time.

Although the river is closed to all motorized watercraft, it remains open to other water recreation, such as swimming or floating. Please use caution and wear a Personal Flotation device when in the water.

TCSO Marine Enforcement Unit will be in the area enforcing the motorized watercraft restrictions.

Source & photos: Tulare County Sheriff's Office