Highway 18 River Road

Located in St. Charles Parish, Louisiana, this boat ramp provides access to the mighty Mississippi River, one of North America's largest waterways. The Mississippi at this location is a major river system with an average flow of over 685,000 cubic feet per second and average velocities around 11 feet per second, making it suitable primarily for experienced boaters and paddlers familiar with strong currents and heavy commercial barge traffic. The river's substantial width and flow mean conditions can change quickly, so check current water levels and weather before launching.

This access point puts you on a river that drains nearly one million square miles of the North American continent. Paddlers and boaters should be prepared for significant current and be aware of commercial tow boat traffic, which is common on this section of the river. The relatively gentle gradient (0.8 feet per mile average) means the water moves steadily rather than dropping steeply. Nearby, the Bonnet Carré Spillway area offers additional recreation opportunities with over 250,000 annual visitors, making it a good reference point for the region's outdoor recreation infrastructure.