Natchitoches Recreation Area

The Natchitoches Recreation Area provides public boat ramp access to the Red River near Louisiana's oldest city. Located just off LA Highway 1 north of Natchitoches and convenient to I-49 (Exit 138), this access point serves paddlers and boaters exploring this major waterway. The site is managed by the Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery; for current conditions and information, contact the facility at (318) 352-5324.

The Red River is a major river system (Stream Order 9) with significant flow averaging over 68,000 cubic feet per second and current velocities around 5.9 feet per second. Paddlers should expect a large, powerful river with a gentle average gradient of 1.6 feet per mile. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, and high water conditions can affect access—the Natchitoches boat ramp closes when river levels reach 32 feet with predicted continued rise. Check current conditions before launching, especially during heavy rainfall or spring runoff periods.

The Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery became operational in 1931 under the authority of the White Act as a warm water facility that would produce catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and redear sunfish for local public waters and farm ponds. Since 1931, resource needs in the southeast have changed and the mission of the station has changed with the times. Recovery of threatened or endangered...

The Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery became operational in 1931 under the authority of the White Act as a warm water facility that would produce catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, and redear sunfish for local public waters and farm ponds. Since 1931, resource needs in the southeast have changed and the mission of the station has changed with the times. Recovery of threatened or endangered species (Louisiana pearlshell mussel), restoration of imperiled species (alligator snapping turtle, paddlefish) and management of interjurisdictional fisheries are also raised to accommodate recreational fishing needs and restoration efforts on Service Lands. There are 53 ponds, each averaging 0.8 acres in size.

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