Lock and Dam 3

Located at Navigation Mile 116.5 on Louisiana's Red River near Colfax in Natchitoches Parish, Lock and Dam 3 provides boat ramp access to one of the South's major waterways. To reach the site, take Louisiana Highway 452 (Brouillette Highway) north from Marksville for approximately 11 miles and look for the Corps of Engineers sign at the foot of the levee; a ramp leads over the levee to the recreation area. This access point serves paddlers and boaters on a substantial river system—the Red River stretches 927 miles with an average flow of over 68,000 cubic feet per second and average velocity of nearly 6 feet per second.

Boaters should be aware of operational considerations at this lock and dam facility. Lock operation is suspended when tailwater elevation reaches 90.5 NGVD, which may affect passage. Additionally, high water conditions can trigger closures: when river levels reach 25 with predicted continued rise, some upstream ramps close, and at level 28 with continued rise, Lock & Dam No. 2 and other facilities close. Check current water conditions before launching. The Red River's major stream order and significant flow make it suitable for experienced paddlers and motorized boats, though current conditions should always be verified with the Corps of Engineers before trips.