Kayak/canoe launch at Cowford Landing opens on the Choctawhatchee River

August 9, 2022

Walton County has completed the new Cowford Landing kayak/canoe launch on the Choctawhatchee River. The new launch is 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.

Deadhead cypress stump from the river donated by Adlee Bruner of Bruner Lumber. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

The new facility includes two screened-in pavilions for overnight camping, a restroom facility, picnic tables and benches, canoe/kayak racks, handicap accessible canoe/kayak launch and associated boardwalk, and parking facility. The floating dock includes an ADA kayak loading station, along with ADA sidewalks and curb ramps.

The construction of the site was funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund through the US Department of Interior, the National Park Service, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the Walton County 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 the Choctawhatchee guide. To make reservations for the bunks, call Walton County Parks and Recreation at 850-892-8700. Note: The County is not yet taking reservations for the sleeping platforms.

ADA floating dock/launch. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors

 

Second sleeping platform at new park. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors
A view of the river from the launch boardwalk. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors
Restroom facilities at new launch. Lori Ceier/Walton Outdoors
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