Kayakers paddling through a wide open marsh waterway

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

HIghway 73

Bridge City, TX · Boat Ramp · Public

HIghway 73 is a public boat ramp on Cow Bayou near Bridge City, Texas. 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

Public launch on Cow Bayou in Texas. Beginner-friendly bay paddling near Bridge City.

Bay paddlers in Texas use HIghway 73 to access Cow Bayou, where calmer waters and wildlife viewing combine.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

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

Getting here from Bridge City takes about 5 min, putting HIghway 73 within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make HIghway 73 ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access HIghway 73?
HIghway 73 is a public boat ramp in Texas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at HIghway 73?
HIghway 73 supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at HIghway 73?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit HIghway 73?
The best time to paddle at HIghway 73 is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at HIghway 73?
Water conditions at HIghway 73 include sheltered, tidal.
Is HIghway 73 good for beginners?
Yes, HIghway 73 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: 30.0468, -93.8201

Quick Facts

State
Texas
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~5 min from Bridge City
Get Directions

30.0468, -93.8201

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More Paddling on Cow Bayou

1 other launch on this water body