St. Maurice Recreation Area

St. Maurice Recreation Area provides public boat ramp access to the Red River in Winn Parish, Louisiana. To reach the facility, take US Highway 71 to Montgomery, turn west at the caution light, proceed over the railroad tracks through downtown, and turn right at Old Jefferson Highway. The access road to the boat ramp is on the left. The recreation area offers standard amenities including a boat launch facility suitable for motorboats, canoes, and kayaks.

The Red River at this location is a major waterway (Stream Order 9, comparable to the Mississippi River) with an average flow of approximately 68,000 cubic feet per second and a moderate gradient of 1.6 feet per mile. Paddlers should expect a substantial current with average velocities around 5.9 feet per second. This is a powerful river system best suited for experienced paddlers and boaters familiar with larger waterways.

**Important note:** The St. Maurice boat ramp closes when river levels reach 32 feet with a predicted continued rise. Check current water conditions before visiting, as high water periods may result in temporary closures. The nearby Cane River Creole National Historical Park and Cane River National Heritage Area offer additional cultural and historical exploration opportunities in the region.