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Cedar Creek Lake & Surrounding Waterways

Friends of
Boating

Improving boating safety and water preparedness through education, outreach, safety equipment programs, and community partnerships.

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Our Mission

Friends of Boating is a community organization dedicated to promoting safe and enjoyable boating on Cedar Creek Lake and the surrounding waterways of East Texas.

We believe that safe boating isn't just about following rules — it's about looking out for your neighbors on the water. We provide visible, hands-on community service rather than just being a social club, and we're proud to be approachable, local, and practical in everything we do.

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Safe Boating

Promoting safe practices and responsible operation on the water.

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Water Safety

Raising awareness of water hazards and emergency preparedness.

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Community

Supporting the boating community around Cedar Creek Lake.

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Education

Providing hands-on, practical boater education for all ages.

Our Community

Friends of Boating is made up of your neighbors on Cedar Creek Lake — people who love the water and believe everyone deserves to enjoy it safely. We hold free safety classes, run community outreach programs, and show up in person to make a real difference. Membership is open to anyone who shares that commitment.

Rooted Right Here

Our instructors and volunteers live and boat on Cedar Creek Lake. Every program we run is built around the needs of this community, not a distant organization.

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Real Programs, Real Impact

From certified safety classes to equipment programs, we put resources directly in the hands of boaters so they can get on the water with confidence.

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Built on Partnerships

We work alongside the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Texas Parks & Wildlife, and local organizations to bring the best resources to our waterways.

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Monthly Socials

Every third Saturday we gather for a potluck dinner and a round of Left Right Center. Good food, good people, good fun — everyone is welcome.

Ready to Get Involved?

Whether you want to volunteer, take a class, attend a social, or simply stay informed about what's happening on Cedar Creek Lake, there's a place for you in Friends of Boating. Join us and help keep our waterways safe for everyone.

Boat America Safety Classes

The Boat America course is a 7-hour, NASBLA-certified class offered by U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary instructors. It meets the State of Texas requirements for mandatory boater education.

Graduates receive a Certificate of Completion and have the opportunity to earn a Texas Parks & Wildlife (TPWD) certification. Classes are open to everyone 12 years of age and older. Pizza and soft drinks are provided!

You'll Learn About:

Trailering your boat or personal watercraft
Rules of navigation — who has the right of way
Inland lakes boat operation, navigation, and piloting
Required equipment — what you should carry on the water
Personal watercraft operation
Common sense boating and more

Class Details

🕘 Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 USCG Auxiliary Headquarters Building
1908 Island Circle, Tool, TX 75143
👤 Open to ages 12 and older
💵 Tuition: $50 + $10 (cash or check) for TPWD Certification
🍕 Pizza and soft drinks provided
✉️ Questions? Contact Jay Long:
jay.long@friendsofboating.org

2025 Class Schedule — Click a Date to Register

⚠️ Pre-registration on the TPWD website is required before the class date. Click any date above to be taken to the Texas Parks & Wildlife registration page. Questions? Email info@friendsofboating.org.

Community Events

Monthly
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Monthly Social

Every 3rd Saturday

Join your fellow boaters for a relaxed potluck dinner and a lively game of Left Right Center. Bring a dish to share, some dollar bills for the game, and good company. Everyone is welcome — members and newcomers alike.

Check our Facebook group for location details each month.

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Stay in the Loop

Additional events, announcements, and community news are posted regularly in our Facebook group. It's the best place to stay connected with what's happening on Cedar Creek Lake.

Visit Our Facebook Group