Kayaking the Angelina River from Kingtown Boat Ramp: East Texas Serenity at Its Best

Date: May 29, 2025
Author: Kingtown RV Park

Nestled deep in the piney woods of East Texas, the Angelina River is a slow-moving waterway rich in natural beauty and peaceful solitude. If you’re seeking a kayaking trip that’s off the radar, away from crowds, and full of East Texas charm, the Kingtown Boat Ramp is your perfect launch site.

Why Start at Kingtown Boat Ramp?

Located just south of Nacogdoches, TX (the oldest city in Texas), the Kingtown Boat Ramp provides direct access to one of the most scenic and tranquil stretches of the Angelina River. It’s easily accessible by road, has plenty of parking, and serves as a gateway to miles of gentle river paddling through pristine hardwood forests, shaded banks, and winding bends.

Seclusion: Less traffic means more time with nature
Easy access: Paved roads and parking make launching simple
Scenic beauty: Towering trees, wildlife, and calm waters
Flexible paddling distances: Great for short or long out-and-back trips

What to Expect on the Water

From the Kingtown launch, paddlers can expect a slow to moderate current—ideal for beginners or those just looking to relax. The river here is wide enough for maneuverability but narrow enough to stay intimate with the surrounding landscape.

On a typical trip, you might see:

Great blue herons gliding low over the water
Turtles sunning on logs
Dense groves of bald cypress and sweetgum trees
A sense of stillness that’s increasingly rare

This stretch of the Angelina River is also known for its healthy fish population, so bring a rod if you’re into kayak fishing.

Planning Your Trip

Make the most of your day on the river by planning ahead. Here’s what to bring when launching from Kingtown:

Kayak or canoe (with a comfortable seat for a longer paddle)
Dry bag with essentials: snacks, phone, wallet, keys
Water, sunscreen, and insect repellent
Optional: binoculars for birdwatching or a fishing rod

Tip: Plan an out-and-back route to return to Kingtown without a shuttle vehicle. Paddling a few miles downstream and back makes for a relaxing half-day adventure.

When to Go

The best seasons to kayak this section of the Angelina River are:

Spring: Wildflowers, higher water levels, and mild temps
Fall: Golden leaves and cooler air
Early summer mornings: Peaceful, quiet, and perfect before the heat sets in
Summer days: Peaceful, quiet, and full of shade
Winter: Mild winters in Texas make Angelina River a perfect time to kayak year round

Avoid going right after heavy rains—check local river conditions before heading out.

Final Thoughts

The Angelina River offers a unique kayaking experience, and the Kingtown Boat Ramp is the perfect starting point to explore it. Whether you’re new to paddling or a seasoned river-goer, this launch gives you access to some of the most untouched natural beauty in East Texas.

So pack your gear, head to Kingtown, and rediscover the joy of slow travel on the water.