How do I access Catahoula Lake?

Catahoula Lake is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Catahoula Lake?

Catahoula Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Catahoula Lake?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Catahoula Lake?

The best time to paddle at Catahoula Lake is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round

What are the water conditions at Catahoula Lake?

Water conditions at Catahoula Lake include calm, sheltered.

Is Catahoula Lake good for beginners?

Yes, Catahoula Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Kayakers on a calm Southern lake lined with pine trees at dusk

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Catahoula Lake

Saint Martinville, LA · Boat Ramp · Public

Catahoula Lake is a public boat ramp on Catahoula Lake near Saint Martinville, Louisiana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Lake access at Catahoula Lake near Saint Martinville, Louisiana. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Catahoula Lake in Louisiana, Catahoula Lake is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Catahoula Lake sits about 10 min from Saint Martinville, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Catahoula Lake ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Catahoula Lake?: Catahoula Lake is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Catahoula Lake?: Catahoula Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Catahoula Lake?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Catahoula Lake?: The best time to paddle at Catahoula Lake is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Catahoula Lake?: Water conditions at Catahoula Lake include calm, sheltered.
Is Catahoula Lake good for beginners?: Yes, Catahoula Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 30.2100, -91.7024