Red River Midway Marina

Red River Midway Marina near Natchitoches offers a free public boat launch serving paddlers and boaters on the Red River, a major waterway with strong current and significant flow. Located on a 10-acre tract approximately 10 miles south of Natchitoches in Winn Parish, the facility includes ample vehicle and trailer parking, docking space, and an on-site convenience store with bait and fuel. The marina operates Monday through Saturday, 7am-7pm, and also offers RV camping and cabin rentals for those planning extended visits.

Paddlers and boaters should be prepared for the Red River's substantial character: as a major river system (Stream Order 9), it maintains an average flow of over 68,000 cubic feet per second with typical velocities around 6 feet per second. The river's gradient averages 1.6 feet per mile, indicating moderate current throughout this section. This access point provides a convenient launch for exploring the scenic Red River valley, which is rich with cultural history including the nearby Cane River Creole National Historical Park and Heritage Area with sites dating back over 300 years.