How do I access Shady Acres?

Shady Acres is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Shady Acres?

Shady Acres 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 Shady Acres?

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

When is the best time to visit Shady Acres?

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

What are the water conditions at Shady Acres?

Water conditions at Shady Acres include calm, sheltered.

Is Shady Acres good for beginners?

Yes, Shady Acres 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

Shady Acres

Oil City, LA · Boat Ramp · Public

Shady Acres is a public boat ramp on Caddo Lake near Oil City, 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

Public launch on Caddo Lake in Louisiana. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Oil City.

Paddlers visiting Caddo Lake in Louisiana can launch from Shady Acres, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Oil City, Shady Acres is a convenient option for Oil City-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Shady Acres?: Shady Acres is a public boat ramp in Louisiana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Shady Acres?: Shady Acres 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 Shady Acres?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Shady Acres?: The best time to paddle at Shady Acres is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Shady Acres?: Water conditions at Shady Acres include calm, sheltered.
Is Shady Acres good for beginners?: Yes, Shady Acres 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: 32.7361, -94.0224