The Rayburn Resort Marina, located on the scenic shores of Lake Sam Rayburn in Brookeland, Texas, has long been a popular destination for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Construction of the reservoir began in 1956, creating the largest lake located entirely within the state of Texas, spanning 144,500 acres. The resort has served as a year-round attraction for visitors seeking fishing, hunting, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and water sports, while also hosting numerous fishing tournaments for both local anglers and student teams. Over the years, the marina became an important hub for the surrounding community, offering boat slips, camping grounds, lakeside cottages, RV sites, and entertainment at the resort’s sandbar with live music and dining.

On May 27, 2015, a severe storm moved through the region, causing extensive damage to the marina, which held 128 boats. The violent winds and waves tore the structure from its moorings and pushed it several hundred yards into a nearby cove. Workers were eventually able to secure the marina by tying it to trees, but the storm was so powerful that 50-foot-tall steel pylons, embedded six feet into the lakebed, were pulled completely out of the ground. The facility suffered heavy structural damage and required a full rebuild. Following the storm, the property, formerly known as Sam Rayburn Resort Marina, was purchased by new ownership with a vision to completely restore and enhance the site. The renovation included rebuilding the marina with modern amenities, new docks, and upgraded infrastructure designed for durability and safety. Today, the Rayburn Resort Marina features covered and uncovered boat slips in multiple sizes, including 10-foot by 26-foot and 14-foot by 38-foot options, along with boat lifts, restrooms, water hookups, a fuel station, and a fish cleaning area. The new design also includes galvanized docks, walkways, and gangways that provide both functionality and long-term protection. Hot-dip galvanizing was chosen as the preferred corrosion protection method for all structural steel components. Given the marina’s constant exposure to water and fluctuating lake levels, galvanizing offered unmatched durability, ensuring the structure would resist rust, corrosion, and premature wear. The use of galvanizing maximizes the integrity and lifespan of the marina while minimizing maintenance costs. It also safeguards customer investments by protecting the boats and equipment stored there from the elements. Choosing galvanizing in a fluctuating water-level, high-traffic environment was a forward-thinking decision, as it provided a robust, long-term solution ideally suited for a facility that experiences heavy year-round use and frequent fishing tournaments. The revitalized Rayburn Resort Marina has once again become a centerpiece of recreation on Lake Sam Rayburn. Its durable, galvanized construction provides confidence to both operators and visitors, ensuring the marina remains a safe, functional, and welcoming facility for years to come. By combining thoughtful design with the proven performance of hot-dip galvanizing, the project has reestablished this landmark destination as a lasting part of the Texas lakeside experience.