Q&A – Everything You Need to Know About Kayaking in Rural North Louisiana
Glide across the soft rippling waters of rural north Louisiana on kayaks along the Boom or Bust Byway. There are five ramps that make a paddler’s transition from land to water simple, an outdoor recreation organization to assist with your kayak adventure, and a store to purchase kayaks. Here are three popular questions for those seeking a kayak experience near Shreveport-Bossier:
Q: Where can I go kayaking?
A: There are more than 10 bodies of water in Caddo and Bossier Parishes, but some boat ramps are more kayak-friendly than others. Outdoor enthusiasts can appreciate this list of boat ramps, lakes and bayous that make kayaking in north Louisiana effortless.
1. Bodcau Wildlife Management Area at Bayou Bodcau in Bellevue
If you want to trudge along Louisiana’s bayous, plan a kayaking trip to Bodcau Wildlife Management Area in Bellevue. This low-key, slow-stream body of water offers a tranquil coasting experience on a picturesque kayaking trail just 30 minutes from downtown Shreveport.
2. Robert L. Nance Park at Black Bayou Lake in Hosston
Robert L. Nance Park is a local secret with open water that stretches from Hosston to the edge of the Ark-La-Tex. This full-service park has a fishing pier, boat ramp, picnic table, grill, playground and more. This park is located about 45 minutes from downtown Shreveport.
3. Old Palmetto Road Boat Ramp at Cypress Lake in Benton
Cypress Lake is a popular outdoor recreational spot for locals and visitors. This reservoir consists of 700 acres of water, a 300-acre recreational park, a zoo, cabins, RV park, primitive camping areas, fishing piers and more at Cypress Black Bayou Water and Conservation District. This lake is about 30 minutes from downtown Shreveport and central Bossier City. You can skip the park entry fees and take advantage of a public boat ramp along Old Palmetto Road.
4. Earl G. Williamson Park at Caddo Lake in Oil City
Drift atop the world’s largest cypress tree forest at Caddo Lake. This 25,400-acre lake and bayou rests on the Louisiana and Texas border. You can bring your family to Earl G. Williamson Park to see hanging Spanish moss trees created shade kayaking trails. There’s a fishing pier, picnic tables, RV hook-ups, playground and an onsite park ranger, all located about 30 minutes outside of downtown Shreveport.
5. Drift Inn Bait & Tackle at Caddo Lake in Mooringsport
Drift Inn Bait & Tackle, located 25 minutes from downtown Shreveport, is a hole-in-the-wall breakfast and burger joint that is known for their country cooking and casual waterfront views. While you’re there, you can take advantage of their RV hook-ups, picnic table, fishing pier and boat ramp, where you can begin your kayak journey along Caddo Lake.
Q: Are guided kayaking tours available?
A: Yes. The Bayou Chapter of Ozark Society is an group of outdoor devotees that support conservation, education, and recreation in northwest Louisiana through paddling, biking, hiking, and camping initiatives. This Ozark Society chapter has an active recreational schedule filled with day hikes, overnight backpack trips, water paddling and more. These efforts make amateur naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts find comfort in outdoor fun. You can participate in their local events by contacting them Facebook or join the Ozark Society with an annual $30 family membership. They’ll even provide kayaks for paddlers if given a decent notice. Click here to learn more.
Q: Where can I purchase kayaks?
A: You can purchase kayaks at one of Bossier City’s most popular attractions, Bass Pro Shop at Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets. Bass Pro Shop is your must-visit store for outdoor recreation. You can purchase everything from kayak and boating necessities to fishing and hunting gear. Click here to learn more.
For more information about things to do, eat, and experience along the Boom or Bust Byway, visit www.BoomOrBustByway.com, or visit the Boom or Bust Byway’s Facebook or Instagram page. If you plan to take a trip soon, download the Boom or Bust Byway app on Android or iOS for GPS-navigated adventure.