How do I access Lock and Dam 3?

Lock and Dam 3 is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Lock and Dam 3?

Lock and Dam 3 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Lock and Dam 3?

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

When is the best time to visit Lock and Dam 3?

The best time to paddle at Lock and Dam 3 is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round

What are the water conditions at Lock and Dam 3?

Water conditions at Lock and Dam 3 include mild current.

Is Lock and Dam 3 good for beginners?

Yes, Lock and Dam 3 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Kayakers paddling through a cypress-lined Southern waterway with Spanish moss

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Lock and Dam 3

Colfax, LA · Boat Ramp · Public

Lock and Dam 3 is a public boat ramp on Red River near Colfax, Louisiana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Public launch on Red River in Louisiana. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Colfax.

Situated along Red River in Louisiana, Lock and Dam 3 provides convenient river access for kayakers, canoeists, and other paddlers.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

Water conditions are generally mild current. Year-round is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Colfax takes about 5 min, putting Lock and Dam 3 within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lock and Dam 3?: Lock and Dam 3 is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lock and Dam 3?: Lock and Dam 3 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Lock and Dam 3?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lock and Dam 3?: The best time to paddle at Lock and Dam 3 is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Lock and Dam 3?: Water conditions at Lock and Dam 3 include mild current.
Is Lock and Dam 3 good for beginners?: Yes, Lock and Dam 3 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 31.5214, -92.7199