How do I access Old Palmetto?

Old Palmetto is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Old Palmetto?

Old Palmetto supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Old Palmetto?

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

When is the best time to visit Old Palmetto?

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

What are the water conditions at Old Palmetto?

Water conditions at Old Palmetto include sheltered, tidal.

Is Old Palmetto good for beginners?

Yes, Old Palmetto 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.

Kayakers paddling through a wide open marsh waterway

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Old Palmetto

Benton, LA · Boat Ramp · Public

Old Palmetto is a public boat ramp on Black Bayou Reservoir near Benton, 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

Old Palmetto offers bay paddling on Black Bayou Reservoir in Louisiana. Located near Benton.

Old Palmetto sits on Black Bayou Reservoir in Louisiana, providing a launchpoint where sheltered bay waters meet tidal currents.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. 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.

Old Palmetto sits about 5 min from Benton, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Old Palmetto?: Old Palmetto is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Old Palmetto?: Old Palmetto supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Old Palmetto?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Old Palmetto?: The best time to paddle at Old Palmetto is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Old Palmetto?: Water conditions at Old Palmetto include sheltered, tidal.
Is Old Palmetto good for beginners?: Yes, Old Palmetto 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: 32.6513, -93.7089