The Best Boat Storage in Houston, Minnesota
Top 3 boat storage facilities in Houston, Minnesota. Rated 4.4/5 stars based on our comprehensive security evaluation system.
Top Boat Storage Facilities
Ranked by our comprehensive security evaluation system
La Crescent Marina
Private Management
La Crescent Marina is a highly reputable, family-owned facility established in 2004, specializing in secure indoor and outdoor boat storage with 24/7 video surveillance, gated access, and on-site maintenance. Located on the Mississippi River, it offers easy water access and is praised for its excellent customer service, safety records, and comprehensive amenities, making it a top choice for Houston area boaters.
Storage Services:
Winona Marina
Winona Marina Inc.
Winona Marina has been serving the region since 2006, providing high-security dry stack and wet slip storage with features like keycard access, 24/7 monitoring, and professional boat care services. Known for its strong customer satisfaction, safety protocols, and convenient Mississippi River location, it reliably serves Houston residents with top-tier storage solutions.
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StorageMart Winona
StorageMart
StorageMart Winona, established in 2008, offers secure outdoor boat storage with perimeter fencing, electronic gate access, and 24/7 video surveillance. While not a full-service marina, it provides affordable, reliable storage options with positive reviews for safety and accessibility, making it a practical choice for Houston area boat owners seeking dependable off-water storage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about boat storage in Houston, Minnesota
What are the typical boat storage options available in Houston, MN, and how do they handle the harsh Minnesota winters?
In Houston, MN, boat owners primarily have access to indoor heated storage, indoor unheated storage, and outdoor storage lots. Given the severe winter conditions with temperatures often dropping below freezing, heated indoor storage is highly recommended to protect your boat's engine, hull, and systems from freeze damage. Many local facilities offer climate-controlled units that maintain a stable temperature. Outdoor storage is the most affordable but requires proper winterization, including draining all water systems, adding antifreeze, and using a high-quality cover. Some facilities also offer dry stack storage for smaller vessels, but fully enclosed, heated units are the gold standard for winter protection in this region.
Are there specific regulations or permits required for storing a boat in Houston, MN, especially for long-term or off-season storage?
Houston, MN, does not have unique city-level permits specifically for boat storage on private property or at commercial facilities. However, if you plan to store your boat on your own residential property, you must comply with local zoning ordinances, which may have restrictions on storing large vehicles or boats in certain residential zones. For commercial storage, the facilities themselves are licensed and regulated. The primary regulatory concern for boat owners in Minnesota is ensuring your boat's registration with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is current if it will be on any public waters. For pure storage, especially over winter, no special permits are typically required, but always check with the storage facility for their specific policies and with the City of Houston for any local ordinances.
How does the proximity to the Mississippi River and local lakes like Money Creek or Lake Winnebago influence boat storage availability and pricing in Houston, MN?
Houston, MN's location near the Mississippi River and smaller local lakes creates a steady demand for boat storage, particularly seasonal demand. Storage facilities often see a surge in requests for winter storage from late fall to early spring. Pricing can be competitive but is generally moderate compared to larger metro areas. Proximity to boat launches on the Mississippi, such as those in nearby La Crescent or Reno, can make storage facilities in Houston convenient, potentially allowing for slightly higher rates for locations with easy river access. However, Houston itself is a smaller community, so availability is more limited than in bigger cities. It's advisable to book your winter storage spot by early fall, as the best indoor units fill up quickly once boating season ends.
What are the key steps for preparing a boat for winter storage in Houston, MN's climate, and do local storage facilities offer winterization services?
Proper winterization is critical in Houston, MN, due to long periods of sub-zero temperatures. Key steps include: thoroughly cleaning the boat inside and out, draining all water from the engine, manifolds, and plumbing systems, adding marine-grade antifreeze to the engine and water systems, stabilizing the fuel, disconnecting and removing the battery for indoor storage, and protecting the interior from moisture and pests. Many storage facilities in the Houston area offer professional winterization services, which is highly recommended for engine and system longevity. Some facilities provide this as an add-on service when you rent a storage unit. Always confirm what services are included (like power for battery tenders) and what preparation is required before drop-off to ensure your boat is fully protected from freeze damage.
What is the average cost range for boat storage in Houston, MN, and what factors most influence the price?
In Houston, MN, boat storage costs vary significantly based on the type of storage and boat size. As a general range, outdoor uncovered storage can start around $30-$60 per month for a standard trailer boat. Indoor, unheated storage typically ranges from $80-$150 per month. Heated, indoor storage—the most protective option for Minnesota winters—usually costs between $150 and $300+ per month, depending on the size of the unit (e.g., for a large cabin cruiser). The primary factors influencing price are climate control (heated vs. unheated), security features (like gated access and surveillance), unit size, and the duration of the rental contract (e.g., seasonal discounts for 6-month winter storage). Due to the seasonal demand, reserving a heated unit early can sometimes secure a better rate.
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About Houston, Minnesota
Houston boat owners deserve secure, convenient storage when choosing boat storage facilities. Our featured facilities specialize in boat storage, RV storage, and marina services with personalized storage solutions in Minnesota.
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