Coushatta Recreation Area

Coushatta Recreation Area provides public boat access to the Red River, a major 928-mile waterway flowing through Louisiana. Located in Red River Parish near Coushatta, this ramp serves as a convenient launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters accessing this significant river system. The site is reached via Louisiana Highway 452 north from Marksville (6 miles to Boat Ramp Road) or from downtown Coushatta via Carroll Street to Abney Street.

The Red River at this location is a substantial waterway—a Class 9 stream with an average flow of 68,000+ cubic feet per second and an average velocity of nearly 6 feet per second. Paddlers should expect moderate current and be prepared for variable conditions. **Important note:** The Coushatta area ramps close when river levels reach 21 feet with predicted continued rise. Monitor current water levels through the Shreveport, Coushatta, or Alexandria river gauges before launching.

For additional information about conditions, water levels, and operational status, contact the Red River Waterway Commission at (800) 874-9431 or marcuslong@redriverwaterway.com. This access point is ideal for boaters exploring Louisiana's major river corridor, though paddlers should have intermediate to advanced skills given the river's size and flow characteristics.