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

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Melvin's Landing

Shreveport, LA · Boat Ramp · Public

Melvin's Landing is a public boat ramp on Cross Lake near Shreveport, 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

Good

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

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Cross Lake near Shreveport, Louisiana. calm and sheltered conditions.

Melvin's Landing provides shoreline access to Cross Lake in Louisiana, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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 calm and sheltered. Year-round is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Shreveport takes about 5 min, putting Melvin's Landing within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Melvin's Landing ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

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 Melvin's Landing?
Melvin's Landing is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Melvin's Landing?
Melvin's Landing 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 Melvin's Landing?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Melvin's Landing?
The best time to paddle at Melvin's Landing is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Melvin's Landing?
Water conditions at Melvin's Landing include calm, sheltered.
Is Melvin's Landing good for beginners?
Yes, Melvin's Landing 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: 32.4968, -93.8091

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Shreveport
Get Directions

32.4968, -93.8091

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