Kayakers paddling through a wide open marsh waterway

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Hwy 160

Cotton Valley, LA · Boat Ramp · Public

Hwy 160 is a public boat ramp on Bayou Bodcau near Cotton Valley, Louisiana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

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

About This Location

Launch into Bayou Bodcau near Cotton Valley, Louisiana. Beginner level with sheltered and tidal water.

Hwy 160 sits on Bayou Bodcau in Louisiana, providing a launchpoint where sheltered bay waters meet tidal currents.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. SUP enthusiasts will appreciate the sheltered conditions for flatwater paddleboarding. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

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

Hwy 160 sits about 5 min from Cotton Valley, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Hwy 160 ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.
  • Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.
  • Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.
  • Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Hwy 160?
Hwy 160 is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hwy 160?
Hwy 160 supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Hwy 160?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hwy 160?
The best time to paddle at Hwy 160 is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Hwy 160?
Water conditions at Hwy 160 include sheltered, tidal.
Is Hwy 160 good for beginners?
Yes, Hwy 160 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered 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: 32.8121, -93.4604

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Cotton Valley
Get Directions

32.8121, -93.4604

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