Coal Creek Slough is a tidal waterway located just west of Longview, Washington, paralleling State Route 4 for approximately four miles. It provides access to a network of backwater sloughs within the Willow Grove Wetland. The primary and officially recognized access point is the Coal Creek Boat Launch, a small concrete single-lane ramp without a dock, specifically designed for kayaks and small boats. It is situated just off SR 4, west of Longview, and offers free day-use parking with no launch fees. There are no restroom facilities at this launch. Another potential access point is at Willow Grove Park, where a sandy beach can be used for launching small craft, though this area is being busier and less quiet. The slough connects to the Columbia River roughly 4.5 miles to the west. The water body is tidally influenced, with a noted low tidal range. The character of the paddling experience varies; the upper slough near the boat launch offers a quieter wetland environment, while areas closer to Willow Grove Park and the Columbia River confluence can see significant motorized boat traffic, including freighters at anchor and jet skis, which impacts the serenity. Paddlers should be prepared for potential wind, especially when heading northwest, which is an upwind direction. The route to the Columbia River involves navigating channel choices, and while charts indicate navigability, paddlers are advised to carry a map. Wildlife includes ospreys, which are known to nest on towers in the area. The slough's principle use is noted for bank fishing and small craft launching, with no specific paddling restrictions mentioned beyond the general presence of motorized traffic.