Lake Buhlow, located in Pineville, Louisiana off U.S. Highway 165, is a 282-acre lake with an average depth of 5 feet and maximum depth of 9 feet. The shallow, sheltered waters are protected from winds by surrounding hills, creating generally calm conditions ideal for paddling.

Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are permitted on the lake. Several paddling outfitters serve the area, including River Paddle Rentals, which offers guided tours and equipment delivery within 30 minutes of Alexandria. The lake is open 24 hours with no entry fee, though swimming is not permitted.

The lake's shoreline provides good bank access, and a boat launch can accommodate watercraft of all sizes. The surrounding Fort Buhlow Recreation Area, operated by the Red River Waterway Commission, offers amenities including picnic tables with barbecue pits, shade trees, nature trails, and two playgrounds. The area provides scenic views of both the Red River and Bayou Rigolette.

Built in 1956 on former hospital pasture land, Lake Buhlow is known for its fishing opportunities, particularly for bass, bream, and channel catfish. The lake is bounded by U.S. Highway 165 to the south and the Red River to the north, with the historic Civil War-era Fort Buhlow at its western end and an airport on the eastern shore.

Paddlers should be aware that the lake hosts frequent motorboat racing events, as it's known as "The Fastest Lake in the USA" due to its calm, protected waters. The city regularly authorizes sanctioned racing events, so checking the event schedule before planning a paddling trip is advisable.

The lake's control structure consists of a 36-inch hydro gate and outflow pipe. The banks are generally well-maintained and clean, making for easy launching and landing for paddlers.