Walton County hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on May 24, 2021 to kick off the new Cowford Landing kayak/canoe launch on The Choctawhatchee River. The new launch will be approximately 100 yards past the existing Cowford boat launch located at SR20 and the Choctawhatchee River at 55 Big Cedar Road, Ponce De Leon, FL 32455
The scope of work includes the construction of a parking lot, sidewalks, restroom, two overnight shelters, timber boardwalks, and a new floating dock with ADA kayak loading station. New ADA compliant sidewalks and curb ramps will also be constructed as well as drainage improvements including a storm water management system with outfall structure and piping. Work will officially begin on June 1.
Partial funding for the Cowford Landing improvements comes from a Land and Water Grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and supplemented by the Counties Preservation Fund. The Choctawhatchee Paddle Trail is a multi-county effort between Walton, Washington, and Holmes counties. The Choctawhatchee River between SR 2 and SR 20 was designated as a Blueway trail in 2016 to help solidify these efforts. The entire Blueway is approximately 60 miles in length and includes multiple public access points.
Click here for Choctawhatchee guide.