Louisiana is not just known for its vibrant culture and delicious food, but also for a range of incredible state parks that showcase the state’s natural beauty.
With diverse ecosystems ranging from swamps to forests and beaches, Louisiana’s state parks are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
For stunning waterfront views, hiking trails, and even beach access, head to Fontainebleau State Park, which sits on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain. Another must-visit park is the Chicot State Park, where you can explore Louisiana’s largest man-made lake, hike through the state’s captivating woodlands, and spot an abundance of local wildlife.
Come on down to the Bayou State and experience the natural wonders of these Louisiana state parks for yourself. There’s something here for every nature lover!
Printable Louisiana State Parks Map
Bayou Segnette State Park
Bayou Segnette State Park is a true gem of Louisiana. Located just a short distance from New Orleans, this state park offers visitors access to two unique wetland habitats: swamp and marsh.
The marsh was created by saltwater intrusion from the Gulf of Mexico, making it a remarkable habitat for both plant and animal life.
Visitors to the park can spot all kinds of wildlife, including American alligators, coypu, nine-banded armadillos, Virginia opossum, raccoons, American mink, red-tailed hawks, kites, red-winged blackbirds, bald eagles, and northern cardinals.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or just love being in nature, Bayou Segnette State Park is a must-visit destination in Louisiana.
Bogue Chitto State Park
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If you’re looking for a peaceful escape in Louisiana, Bogue Chitto State Park is definitely worth checking out. This beautiful park is located south of Franklinton and covers 1,786 acres of lush forests, swamps, and streams.
It’s named after the big creek that runs through it, which is a popular spot for canoeing and fishing. The park has plenty of amenities, including a visitors center, picnic pavilions, and a lodge with sweeping views of a 90-foot bluff.
Whether you’re looking to camp in an RV or stay in one of the cozy upland cabins, there are plenty of options to choose from. The park also boasts an 18-hole disc golf course, nature trails, equestrian trails, and even a water playground for the kids.
One of the most unique features of Bogue Chitto is Fricke’s Cave, which is home to delicate sandstone formations that are certainly worth your attention.
Chemin-A-Haut State Park
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If you’re looking for a soothing escape in northern Louisiana, look no further than Chemin-A-Haut State Park. Nestled on a 503-acre site, this park is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 425, just ten miles north of Bastrop.
The name Chemin-A-Haut means High Road in French, and much of the park is located on a high bluff overlooking Bayou Bartholomew. This park is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife observation.
There’s even an 8-mile equestrian trail for horseback riders! And if you’re looking for a refreshing dip during the hot summer months, the on-site swimming pool is the perfect place to cool off.
With the recent acquisition of the DeBlieux tract, the park’s size will be increased to 750 acres, making it an even more fantastic destination for nature lovers.
Chicot State Park
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If you’re looking for a nature retreat in Louisiana, Chicot State Park must be on your list. Located near Ville Platte, this wildlife reserve offers 6,400 acres of rolling hills, a man-made 2,000-acre lake stocked with different fish species, and a variety of activities for visitors.
You can rent a fishing boat, have a barbecue, or relax in one of the park’s furnished cabins or lodges. The park is home to several wild animals, including deer, raccoons, coyotes, and bobcats.
Hiking and cycling are also popular activities, with a trail that encircles the lake and offers primitive campsites. Whether you’re an angler, hiker, or just looking to escape the city, Chicot State Park is a great destination to explore the natural beauty of Louisiana.
Cypremort Point State Park
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the Louisiana coastline, then Cypremort Point State Park is definitely worth checking out!
Located on Vermilion Bay, this public recreation area is set against a dramatic backdrop of coastal marsh and features a half-mile stretch of man-made beach. Whether you’re into fishing, sailing, or just lounging in the sun, this park has something to delight everyone.
You can even reserve one of the six cabins on the park grounds for an overnight stay. And if you’re interested in the history of the area, you’ll be fascinated to know that the Chitimacha tribe once considered this spot one of the markers for their tribal land.
So come on down to Cypremort Point State Park and experience the beauty and history of Louisiana’s Gulf coastline for yourself!
Fairview-Riverside State Park
Fairview-Riverside State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled outdoor adventure in Louisiana. Located just 2 miles east of Madisonville, this 99-acre park is nestled along the banks of the scenic Tchefuncte River.
A real highlight of the park is the Otis House Museum, which dates back to 1885 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visitors can camp, fish, and enjoy water sports at the park, which boasts 100 well-maintained campsites, a short nature trail, and a boardwalk that winds through the forested wetlands along the river.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a place to relax and unwind, Fairview-Riverside State Park deserves your time and attention.
Fontainebleau State Park
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If you’re looking for an attractive state park to explore in Louisiana, Fontainebleau State Park is worth checking out. Located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, this 2,800-acre park offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy.
History buffs will appreciate the park’s past as a sugar cane plantation and brickyard, while nature lovers will be thrilled with the many habitats for birds and the 1.2-mile nature trail that includes a boardwalk into the marsh.
Families can take advantage of the picnic area, playground, and beach, as well as the fishing pond and fishing pier. The park also has a visitor center with museum displays, interpretive programs, and a gift shop.
And if you’re up for some exercise, the Tammany Trace rail-trail runs through the park, offering 31 miles of paved trail for hiking, biking, and more.
Grand Isle State Park
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If you’re looking for a unique state park to visit in Louisiana, Grand Isle State Park is definitely worth visiting. Located on the eastern tip of Grand Isle, the only inhabited barrier island in the state, this park offers visitors a chance to enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits.
Despite being affected by several hurricanes in the past, much of the park has been renovated and beach restoration efforts are ongoing. Fishing enthusiasts will love the access to over 300 species of fish, and there’s an observation tower that provides amazing views of the coastal scenery.
Other popular activities at the park include beach combing, bird watching, camping, crabbing, and sunbathing. And if you’re a history buff, you’ll appreciate the legends of buried treasure and the rougarou that are a part of the area’s folklore.
While the park did experience some closures due to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, efforts have been made to restore the area, including planting black mangrove trees to prevent erosion.
All in all, Grand Isle State Park is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Louisiana.
Jimmie Davis State Park
If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all, Jimmie Davis State Park in Louisiana is a great option. Located near Chatham in Jackson Parish, this park offers visitors the chance to relax and enjoy nature in a beautiful setting.
With its mixed pine-hardwood forest and waterfront location on Caney Creek Lake, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. The park offers a range of accommodations, including deluxe cabins and lodges, as well as campsites for those who prefer to rough it.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Jimmie Davis State Park has something for everyone. So why not pack your bags and head out to this gorgeous Louisiana gem today?
Lake Bistineau State Park
Lake Bistineau State Park is a marvelous destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Louisiana! With over 10 miles of hiking trails, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the park’s beautiful natural surroundings.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a trail for everyone here. And if you’re looking to spend the night, the park also offers camping facilities, making it the ideal spot for a weekend getaway.
But that’s not all – Lake Bistineau State Park is also an exciting place for boating and paddling. So if you’re looking for a fun and active day out in the Louisiana sunshine, look no further than Lake Bistineau State Park!
Lake Claiborne State Park
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Lake Claiborne State Park is a secluded spot located in the northwestern part of Louisiana. This recreation site has been a favorite among locals and tourists since it opened in 1974.
The park is sprawled over 643 acres of land and provides access to the beautiful Lake Claiborne, a man-made water body that spans over 6,400 acres. The park offers a variety of accommodations including 10 cozy cabins and 89 campsites.
Visitors can rent boats and canoes to explore the lake or take a dip in the large swimming beach. The Nature Center and interpretive programs are perfect for those who want to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
The entrance to the park is conveniently located just 7 miles southeast of Homer on Louisiana Highway 146.
Lake D’Arbonne State Park
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If you’re looking for a place to escape and enjoy the great outdoors, Lake D’Arbonne State Park is definitely worth a visit! This beautiful park covers 655 acres and is situated in a picturesque hilly region near Lake D’Arbonne in Union Parish, Louisiana.
Whether you’re into disc golf, fishing, camping, hiking or kayaking, this state park has something for everyone. With 58 campsites, 16 cabins, and 2 lodges, there are plenty of options for overnight stays.
And if you’re up for a challenge, try out the disc golf course – it’s one of the most grueling and difficult in the world! The park also offers a network of hiking and walking trails, which are color-coded for ease of use.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as deer sightings are common in the mixed pine-hardwood forest. Don’t forget to pack your tennis racket too, as Lake D’Arbonne State Park is the only state park in Louisiana with tennis courts.
Lake Fausse Pointe State Park
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If you’re looking for a restful escape from the hectic pace of city life, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park is the perfect destination. This impressive park is located in the heart of Louisiana’s Atchafalaya Basin, just a short drive from St. Martinville.
With over 6,000 acres of natural beauty to explore, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to hike, fish, and relax. One of the unique features of Lake Fausse Pointe is its history as the home of the Chitimacha Indians.
You can learn more about their culture and way of life at the park’s visitor center. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a calm retreat, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park is a brilliant choice.
North Toledo Bend State Park
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If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy nature, North Toledo Bend State Park in Louisiana is the perfect place to go! Located on the shores of Toledo Bend Reservoir, this 900-acre park offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.
Boating is especially popular here, and you can rent paddle boats or canoes to fish in the nationally acclaimed reservoir. There’s also a fish cleaning station on site. Hikers will love the two trails available, with Trail A being 1.5 miles and Trail B being 4 miles long.
Additionally, there are 10 cabins and 67 campsites available for overnight stays. The park’s visitor center complex contains a large meeting room that can be reserved for group functions and an Olympic-size swimming pool.
Finally, there’s a group camp available with 5 dorms that sleep 50 people each in bunk beds, a full-size cafeteria-style kitchen, a bath house, restroom facilities, and even a fishing pier.
Don’t forget that entrance fees are only $3 per person, making this an affordable and fun option for a day trip or a longer stay.
Palmetto Island State Park
Palmetto Island State Park is a lovely addition to Louisiana’s state park system. Located south of Abbeville in Vermilion Parish, this park boasts 1,299 acres of lush coastal bottomland hardwood forest, complete with an abundance of palmettos.
The park’s visitor center is the perfect place to start your adventure, with a multi-purpose room that can be rented for events and a nearby water playground. For overnight stays, guests can choose from six cozy cabins or 95 campsites.
Picnic pavilions and sites are strategically placed throughout the park, including an aquatic pavilion overlooking the Vermilion River.
The park offers access to the river via a boat launch, and interior lagoons provide a serene setting for canoers and kayakers to observe native animal and plant life.
Don’t miss the nature trail, which begins at the visitor center and offers a .75-mile hike through the park’s spectacular scenery.
Poverty Point Reservoir State Park
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If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor adventure, Poverty Point Reservoir State Park in Louisiana is definitely worth your time.
This state park is located in Richland Parish and boasts a massive man-made reservoir spanning over 2,700 acres, where visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, hiking, and fishing.
The park also offers a variety of accommodations, including eight deluxe cabins, four standard cabins, and fifty-four campsites.
With its location in the Mississippi Flyway, Poverty Point Reservoir State Park is a popular spot for birding enthusiasts, who can expect to see a variety of species throughout the year.
And for those who love to fish, the park has a 48 slip marina, boat launch, fish cleaning station, and concession area, where visitors can catch largemouth bass, black crappie, blue gill, and channel catfish.
Just be sure to keep an eye out for black bears while walking the .5 mile trail near Bayou Macon!
St. Bernard State Park
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If you’re looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of New Orleans, St. Bernard State Park is the perfect getaway. Located in St. Bernard Parish, this hidden gem boasts a variety of outdoor activities for all ages, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
With its lush greenery and peaceful bayou, it’s hard to believe that this park is only eighteen miles from the city. Despite its relative obscurity, St. Bernard State Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Louisiana.
So pack your bags, grab your fishing rod, and get ready for a weekend of relaxation and adventure at St. Bernard State Park.
Sam Houston Jones State Park
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Sam Houston Jones State Park is a beautiful spot in southwestern Louisiana, located at the confluence of the Houston and Calcasieu Rivers and Indian Bayou.
The park boasts over 1,000 acres of woodlands, lakes, and rivers, making it a nature lover’s paradise. The bald cypress trees are particularly striking and add to the unique natural environment. Wildlife is abundant in the area, including deer, alligators, otters, and diverse bird life.
The park offers a variety of facilities, including campsites, cabins, boat launches, rental boats, a scenic picnic area with pavilions, a playground, and restrooms. Visitors can also enjoy hiking on the three winding trails that offer arresting views of the park’s ponds and tributaries.
If you’re a bird lover, you’re in luck as the site is located in the Central Migratory Flyway and just north of the most productive birding region in Louisiana. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a water sports lover, or a bird watcher, Sam Houston Jones State Park is certainly worth a trip.
South Toledo Bend State Park
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If you’re looking for a fun and adventurous getaway in Louisiana, South Toledo Bend State Park definitely deserves to be checked out!
Located on the impressive shores of Toledo Bend Reservoir, the park offers a wide range of recreational activities that are perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, birding, camping, or wildlife watching, this 1,000-acre park has something for everyone.
With 19 cabins and 60 campsites available for overnight stays, you can enjoy the park’s stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere for as long as you like.
And if you’re a fisherman, you’ll be delighted to know that the park is home to largemouth bass, catfish, bream, and white perch, making it an excellent spot to cast a line.
Be sure to visit the visitor’s center museum, too, which features fascinating exhibits and dioramas that highlight the area’s indigenous species and their role in the environment. So pack your bags and head over to South Toledo Bend State Park for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!
Tickfaw State Park
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If you’re looking for a natural getaway that’s not too far from the city, you can’t go wrong with Tickfaw State Park in Louisiana. This beautiful park has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike since it opened in 1999, and it’s easy to see why.
With its lush forests, scenic boardwalks, and tranquil fishing pond, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy here. Plus, if you’re traveling from New Orleans or Baton Rouge, you’ll appreciate how close Tickfaw is to both cities.
Make sure to stop by the nature center, rent a canoe, and keep your eyes peeled for alligators, armadillos, and other wildlife. You won’t regret a visit to this gem of a state park!
