Ben Routh

Ben Routh Recreation Area offers convenient public boat ramp access to the Red River in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana. Located 6 miles north of Marksville via Louisiana Highway 452, this facility features 126 parking spaces and well-maintained access roads suitable for launching kayaks, canoes, and motorboats. The recreation area also includes scenic hiking trails and a river overlook, making it a good option for a full day of paddling and exploration.

The Red River at this location is a major waterway with significant flow characteristics: expect an average current of approximately 5.93 feet per second and substantial water volume (averaging 68,000+ cubic feet per second). This is a large, powerful river best suited for experienced paddlers. Water levels can fluctuate considerably—the ramp closes when river levels reach 25 feet with predicted continued rise—so check current conditions before your trip. The area also provides access to nearby wildlife viewing opportunities at Lake Ophelia and Grand Cote National Wildlife Refuges.