Located near St. Francisville, Louisiana, Tunica Hills is over 6,000 acres of hills, bluffs, and ravines, and is composed of two separate land tracks: The North Tract near the Louisiana Penitentiary and the South Tract off Old Tunica Road. It is also part of the Natchez Trace System of trails used since colonial days. Most of the 3.5-mile Tunica Hills C Trail trail is easy to hike and can be finished in one to three hours, but the full five-mile primitive loop is more challenging because there are no shortcuts and parts of the trail are steep. Dogs are welcome to accompany you on the trail. This is a beautiful and peaceful hike, with butterflies and wildflowers in abundance. There are several waterfalls along the way, and the trail is marked well. Bring drinking water and insect repellent, and check for ticks after you’ve completed the trail. Passes may be required, so check with the closest ranger station or online before you start the hike.
Kisatchie Hills is part of Louisiana’s largest state wilderness area with a total of 8,700 acres, and it is here that hikers will find some of the most challenging trails in the state. Unusual for Louisiana, the terrain includes a steep and rocky landscape, elevated areas, broad, rounded cliffs, and wild residents like black bears, foxes, and otters. There are three main trails in the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness: Backbone, the longest but easiest trail at 7.4 miles, Longleaf Vista, a well-marked trail covering 1.3 miles of scenic views in a deep valley, and High Ridge, an aptly named 1.5-mile spur trail to the Backbone. Dogs are permitted on the trails, but make sure to keep them leashed since you may encounter local wildlife as you hike.
Situated along one of America’s largest man-made reservoirs are over 900 acres of peaceful (and protected) land meant to whisk you away to some of the most beautiful scene’s Mother Nature has to offer. Given that there’s an abundance of water sports, this gets to be a happening area in the warmer months. You will find two trails throughout the park, Trail A being 1.5 miles-long, and Trail B being four miles-long. Nothing will bring people together like a long hike in this beautiful forested area. Reserve a campsite or cabin in the very well maintained campground and thoroughly enjoy everything that this park has to offer!
This bayou in Lacombe, right within the city limits of New Orleans, is what gives Louisiana’s wetlands their magnificent reputation. You won’t be able to put down your camera since there are so many aspects to this historic National Wildlife Refuge’s beauty. Walk through two miles of trails, and become enraptured in the radiant botanical gardens, the banks, and other natural habitats that this vibrant place has to offer.
Also situated in the Kisatchie National Forest, the Kincaid Loop Trail is rated as moderate. Hikers will cut close to and away from the beautiful Kincaid Lake along this trek. Keep in mind that it is also a bike trail, so you’ll be sharing your space. The views of the lake are truly awe-inspiring, making for some excellent photo opportunities. Immerse yourself in the bountiful wildlife on this heart-pumping hike.
]]>With its 400 acres of land situated along the Bayou Castine, the Northlake Nature Center is the perfect spot for a dog friendly outdoor adventure. Located only 45 minutes away from New Orleans, the area offers a variety of trails for some true nature exploration with your pup.
This park is ideal for those who love nature. Featuring plenty of paths to explore with your pup, Huckleberry Trails Park is sure to make for a great outdoor experience. Go out and see what you both find in these Ruston area trails!
It was once an abandoned site used as a dirt and gravel mine, but has since been transformed into a stunning place to explore with your pup, with plenty of trails and rivers to traverse. Let your canine companion explore with all their senses in this great space.
This trail was established in 2001 as part of an effort to preserve and educate the Belle Chasse community on the native natural beauty of the area. This trail is the perfect spot for your pup to explore the vast expanse and rolling hills. If you and your pup are looking for the perfect place to stretch your legs and challenge yourself, you’ve found the right place.
With five and a half miles of scenic beauty, Comite River Park is a great spot for your pup to go on a fun filled adventure in the middle of Baton Rouge. See what you uncover, whether you’re looking for an active day out together or a leisurely stroll, be sure to make a stop here!
Spread across 160 acres, this park is an ideal spot to take your furry friend on an exciting tour of a Shreveport natural oasis. Full of locally favorited nature trails and a rentable pavilion with restrooms, your pet is sure to have the perfect outdoor adventure.
This trail is perfect for those who have kids and pets. The trail is hiker-friendly and suitable for most hikers and the whole family, especially your furry family members! Bring everyone together on this exciting adventure for you and man’s best friend!
Pretty Acres is the perfect playground for your pup. Featuring a concrete walking path, puppy play pools, and off-leash access, your pup will be sure to love this spot. The ultimate canine catered paradise in Covington awaits you.
Forest Community Park features exceptional recreational opportunities. Make sure to take your pup to explore what this park has to offer. They will have a blast frolicking through the forested wonderland.
With nearly 1,000 acres of natural woodlands and meadows, this park has various exciting elements sure to entice your pup. With plenty of trails to navigate, it’s a dog’s dream to spend the day with you in this lakeside gem.
]]>Hike the six-mile Gorge Run Trail through Bogue Chitto State Park for a moderately difficult time. The hike is surrounded by forest with a nice river along the path. Make sure to pay attention to the weather, though, as recent rains can make the river overflow and make your hike much more treacherous. Don’t leave home without your bug spray.
If you’re in the mood for a longer hike, the 20-mile Lake Chicot Loop might be for you. While it’s open year-round, most suggest visiting between March and October. Total elevation gain is almost 1,200 feet, which can make it difficult for some, but there are sections of the trail that have very little elevation gain and could be quite easy for others. Beware of the deer flies, and consider the weather before heading out: The heat can be oppressive.
There are several trails in the Jean Lafitte area that are easily accessible to those in a wheelchair or families with small children. Among those that are accessible are the half-mile Bayou Coquille Trail, the .4-mile Marsh Overlook Trail, the .25-mile Visitor Center Trail, and more. The dirt and gravel hiking trails are the .4-mile Wood Duck Trail, the 1.8-mile roundtrip Plantation Trail (loop), the 1.4-mile roundtrip Old Barataria Trail, and the .6-mile Twin Canals. Keep an eye out for birds, fishing, and wild flowers along the way.
This 10.5-mile horseback riding, hiking, and biking trail is situated within the immaculate Kisatchie National Forest. This trail can be described as moderate, so those with very minimal experience may want to come prepared. The elevation gain does not exceed 800 feet and this is also a common birding area. Bring your binoculars!
This park near Bastrop, Louisiana, is among the most beautiful in the state. Chamin-A-Haut overlooks Bayou Bartholomew and is described as a “natural paradise for lovers of unspoiled beauty.” While there, check out the 1.1-mile Bobcat Trail or the quarter-mile Boy Scout Trail. None of these trails are too long, but be sure to always come prepared!
]]>The Louisiana State Arboretum in Ville Platte, Louisiana, is one of the most gorgeous natural areas in the entire region. The arboretum is part of Chicot State Park, and offers trails for hikers of all experience levels. Beginners can peruse the Wetland Trail, which is only .7 miles, whereas more experienced hikers will enjoy the 20-mile trail that surrounds the lake. The oldest state-supported arboretum in the United States, it is home to over 150 unique plant species, and diverse wild-life.
The Wild Azalea Trail in Woodworth, Louisiana, cuts through the scenic Kisatchie National Forest. The entire trail is almost 31 miles-long, which makes for an intense 16-hour hiking experience for those so inclined to experience the entire route, or a series of bountiful nature walks for those more interested in shorter sojourns. A recreation area, shelters, and drinking water facilities are sprinkled along the trail, providing opportunities for refreshment. The trail is typically rated as moderate and is known for its incredible wild flowers.
The Barataria Preserve is part of the greater Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve, which covers much of the Mississippi River Delta region. The Barataria Preserve is closest to Marrero, Louisiana, and offers a four-mile trail that is perfect for hikers of all ages. Wildflowers, swamp, and alligators await.
Gorge Run Trail cuts through the relatively new Bogue Chitto State Park. Dogs are welcome on this six-mile, moderate trail, but must be kept on a leash. Each entrant to the park must pay $3. The trail is a loop near a lake, which adds to the scenic beauty. Try to avoid visiting just after a heavy rain, as the bogs may become too deep to properly enjoy the hike. Terrain types include beach, pine, gravel, and gorge.
Originally a railroad trail, the Tammany Trace Trail has been repurposed into a regular hiking path covering over 30 miles. According to the Tammany Hall official website, the trailhead “resembles an old-fashioned railroad station and includes a covered waiting platform, a clock tower, a band stand, a sloped, grassy, shaded audience area, restrooms, water fountains, visitor center, exhibit hall and small movie theater.” The train itself winds through a 27.5-mile corridor and stretches from Covington through four other towns. The elevation is nice and easy, and will work for hikers of all levels.
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Likewise, bass fishing is starting to pick up again as the weather begins to cool. Huge schools of threadfin shad are starting to filter away from open-water ledges into bays and tributaries where feeding conditions and water temperatures are more optimum.
Bass follow the food, first setting up on ledges at the mouths of inlets and creeks to waylay shad, then migrating back toward shallower water to keep up with their quarry.
Fall Script for Southern Bass
Bass rule in Dixie and cooler weather brings out an army of anglers who go after them. Whether largemouth, smallmouth or spotted bass, they’re available in most waters and sometimes all three varieties are present in a fishery, ready to aggravate or gratify those who seek them.
Hot Spots To Fish: When it comes to the South’s best lakes for fall fishing, the big TVA impoundments fit the bill. Because this is bass tournament country, dozens of YouTube videos and Facebook sites of pro anglers offer useful advice on where and how to catch autumn largemouths. Likewise, guide services are plentiful; just Google “fishing guides” for the lake you’re visiting or type in the town nearest the lake you wish to fish on the interactive map on this page.
Tackle You’ll Need: A 7-foot medium/heavy rod such as the St. Croix Premier Cranking, a baitcasting reel like the Abu Garcia Revo Winch and 10- to 14-pound-test monofilament makes a good combination to fish downsized lures.
Quick tip: This is strictly a match-the-hatch deal. Use lures that are about the same size as wandering shad. If young-of-the-year threadfins are on the bass menu, try small swim baits fished on drop-shot rigs.
Best Lures/Baits: Shad-colored, shallow- and medium-diving square-billed or coffin-billed crankbaits are autumn standouts. Popular lures include the Strike King 6XD, Bandit 100 or 200, Duo Realis M65, Livetarget Magnum Shad BaitBall Squarebill, Megabass S-Crank, Lucky Craft Squarebill 2.5, Storm Arashi and Rapala Shad Rap.
Fish them around shoreline cover and on the flats between creek drop-offs and the bank. Other fallback baits include spinnerbaits like the Booyah Super Shad, Stanley Vibrashaft and Nichols Pulsator. Good buzzbait options can be found from Lunker Lure, Damiki, Santone and Dirty Jigs.
Find the best fishing spots near you:
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
Rendezvous With Redfish
Along the northern Gulf Coast from Carrabelle, FL, to Grand Isle, LA, the redfish season begins in late September and continues in stages through December. Some anglers fish in the surf with cut bait, while others station themselves on area piers or in boats on relatively shallow flats near channel cuts.
Hot Spots To Fish: For boating anglers, a couple of spots stick out. Pensacola Bay Pass is a must-fish for boaters. Anchor up on the broad flat between old Fort Pickens and the channel, set out lines as the tide changes to incoming, and hang on. Need more help? Redfish University Pensacola Fishing Charters (850-748-4368, redfishuniversity.com) specializes in the big drum.
At Grand Isle, LA, book a trip with Gotta Go Fishing Charters (225-921-3642, gottagofishingcharters.com). The marshes and inshore waters around Venice, LA, are primo redfish haunts as well. Captain Mike Frenette (504-782-0924, laredfish.com or ([email protected]) is a top guide here.
Tackle You’ll Need: “Rat” reds of 3 pounds and up, or real bruisers weighing in excess of 20 pounds require a range of tackle options. Bass fishing tackle – whether spinning or baitcasting – is perfect for handling smaller fish and for casting jigs or swimbaits that weigh less than an ounce. A Shimano Stradic spinning reel and 7-foot medium-action Shimano Compre rod with 14-pound-test monofilament.
For bigger fish, consider a Penn Battle II BTLII5000 with 20-pound-test monofilament or 40-pound-test braid, and a 30-pound-test fluorocarbon leader. A 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod (such as the Penn Battalion BATIN1220S70) should handle any bait rigs or lures and wear down a bull redfish in short order.
Quick Tip: Incoming tides in late evening or at night are primo times for reds as the fish free-spawn then in the mouths of coastal bays and estuaries. If you can’t fish any other time, make sure you fish the incoming tides.
Best Lures/Baits: Redfish aren’t particular about their dietary requirements and will eat anything from blue crabs to halved mullet. Swimming spoons such as the Johnson Sprite (johnsonfishing.com), swimbaits and jigs or even topwater poppers, such as the Heddon Saltwater Spook, will elicit strikes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish
Much effort has been put into reclaiming abandoned farmland and recreating the forests in the northeast Louisiana Delta area of the state. Several bird and animal species have almost been wiped out, like the ivory-billed woodpecker and black bear because of extensive agricultural and timbering practices. There are now approximately 30 birdwatching sites comprising the Mississippi River Birding Trail that runs through 13 parishes.
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Pine forests along the Red River Birding Trail are home to a variety of birds and 82 birdwatching sites in northwestern Louisiana. The geography changes dramatically as the river crosses the state boundaries and some of the region’s most unique plants can be found there.
There are 115 sites along the Gulf Coast region known as America’s Wetland Birding Trail that take birders through every imaginable waterway including lakes, rivers, swamps, bayous, marshes, mudflats, and beaches. Waterfowl are abundant, each in their specific area, and if you venture away from the water, you’ll see an abundance of migrating songbirds in the wooded areas. The trail is organized in 12 specific loops where migratory and native birds can be seen in their habitat.
The Atchafalaya area is a unique region of the state that features multiple ecosystems from wetlands, hills, and prairies to marshes, swamps, forests, and meadows. The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area contains nearly 400 kinds of birds and has several rookeries for breeding birds. Some of the best areas for birding can be found here, and there are numerous hiking areas along bayous.
There are over seven miles of coastline trails that become home to more than 300 migratory birds from the eastern U.S. in April each year. It would seem as if the trees were alive and moving with the number of birds that perch on the limbs. Shorebirds and seabirds can be seen along the beaches and there are many species that make their home there year-round.
]]>Even though Louisiana isn’t known for having many natural rock formations that lend themselves to climbing, you may have climbed one of the beautiful oaks trees found here. And if you don’t have an oak tree in your backyard, or feel you’re ready for more of a challenge, Uptown Climbing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has an oak tree tower that might be just what you need. Uptown Climbing is a new state-of-the-art facility designed to inspire and encourage the art of rock climbing, and the largest facility of its kind in Louisiana. Partnering with the leading climbing wall manufacturer in North America, Uptown Climbing has a 90-foot bouldering wall, more than 60 rope stations, areas where you can challenge yourself or others in speed climbing, or just sit back and relax in the lounge and let others inspire you. Day passes and memberships are available and gear can be rented for use in the gym. Whether you’re a novice to climbing or getting ready for that trip to the mountains, you’ll find the instructors and classes that will help prepare you for your rock climbing adventure.
From basic hand and foot holds for beginners to lead certification for advanced climbers, you’ll be able to experience the thrill of scaling up simulated rock walls, boulders, and overhangs at Southern Stone Indoor Climbing located in Lafayette, Louisiana. Special classes are available that will teach you how to spot other climbers, proper falling techniques, climbing commands, and more that will prepare you for the outdoors. For family fun, discounted rates are offered for college students and kids on certain nights, and if you’re looking for a great place to have a birthday party, Southern Stone can accommodate groups up to 15 and overnight lock-ins.
If you or someone you know wants to learn everything there is to know about rock climbing from certified experts and in a safe environment, Slidell Rocks Climbing Gym is the place to visit. This well-maintained gym is clean and provides a fun atmosphere that will help prepare you for outdoor climbing. This gym also provides a great place for exhilarating indoor activity that will stimulate your heart and test your endurance. Open every day except Monday, they offer weekly discounts for high school and college students, ladies night, and active military. There’s also a kids’ climbing night where kids can be inspired to climb to the top, and a Merit Badge course for boy scouts that teaches location of climbing areas, verbal signals, ropes and knots, equipment, and repelling.
If you’re training for your next outdoor rock climbing event and are looking for a top-notch place to work out, G-Rock Climbing in Shreveport, Louisiana, has the experienced trainers and courses that you need. High Intensity Interval Training, muscle toning, cardio workouts, and even weight loss classes will help you be in tip top shape when you climb your mountain. With a firm belief in safety, there are strict requirements for certification and everyone who comes to G-Rock Climbing has to go through a facility orientation where all the rules for proper conduct, equipment handling, climbing, and policies for minors are reviewed. Before moving to the next stage, climbers must understand the risks associated with their level of qualification and demonstrate various techniques. G-Rock Climbers can customize your next birthday event or team building activity at reasonable per-person rates.
If you want a place for family fun, stop by X Fusion Family Arena in Covington, Louisiana. This is the place you wish existed when you were a kid. And for those of you who already love rock climbing and want to introduce your kids to it, X Fusion Family Arena is perfect because it’s a controlled environment that’s safe and fun, but provides plenty of opportunity to try challenging and physically demanding activities. Equipment can be rented and there are games and climbing exercises that simulate actual rock climbing. Kids can get used to what a harness feels like, and the bouldering wall is very kid friendly. There is also a zip line, tunnel and obstacle courses, and a fitness center. Visit X Fusion Family Arena and conquer new heights.
]]>If you want to see Louisiana at its best in the fall, walk the Caroline Dorman Trail. Part of the Kisatchie National Forest, this trail is over 10 miles of horseback, hiking, or biking. Named after avid Louisiana botanist, artist, author, and conservationist, and the first woman to be hired by the U.S. Forest Department, this beautiful and scenic nature trail isn’t far from Briarwood, Caroline Dorman’s home. Nestled in the northeast part of Natchitoches Parish, the trail and Briarwood are open to the public and represent preserved ecosystems and wildflowers that grow the state.
Black Bayou Lake is a 1,700-acre lake with nature trails, boardwalks, a pier and observation deck, and nature center, and is one of five wildlife refuges in the state. The swamps that surround the refuge and beautiful cypress and tupelo trees dominate the area and are at their peak in the fall months. Oak, elm, ash, and hickory present brilliant colors, and the refuge is home to alligators, ducks, tree frogs, snakes, herons, and song birds. This is a great place to hike, kayak, or canoe, and you’ll be treated to stunning scenery and plenty of opportunities for great photos.
R.W. Norton Art Gallery in Shreveport, Louisiana, may not sound like the typical place to observe fall foliage, but in addition to the American and European artwork and collection of rare books, it is home to lush gardens and azaleas. Often called “the royalty of the garden,” there are over 15,000 plants that include 100 varieties for your viewing pleasure. There is over 40 acres of magnificently maintained landscape that comes alive with color during all four seasons of the year. This is definitely one of the area’s best kept secrets, and well worth visiting.
Because Louisiana has a number of resources, including flora and fauna specific to the Mississippi River Delta region of the United States, there are several preserves established to protect and maintain the species and cultural history of the area. The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park is such a place. Visitors can enjoy the trails and canoe tours that meander through the hardwood forests, swamps, and marshes, observing alligators basking in the sun, pelicans diving for fish beneath the water, or attend special events that tell the story of the area.
Lake Claiborne near Homer, Louisiana, is a 6,400-acre recreational lake in the northwestern part of the state that features a beach area, nature trail, picnic area, and overnight camping. Opened in 1974, the park itself comprises about 643 acres, and is a great place to bring the family. Visitors can stay and play for the day, or spend the night at one of the 87 campsites in this well-maintained area. The area surrounding the lake is ablaze with color in the fall as the leaves of trees change, and there are plenty of opportunities for astounding pictures for the photography buff. There are clean restrooms and showers available, laundry facilities, and the site is handicap accessible.
]]>Opened in 1974 and covering approximately 643 acres, Lake Claiborne is located in the northwestern part of Louisiana near Homer. Once home to Native Americans who lived off the land and were constantly moving, the area became familiar to European settlers looking for wealth and to establish towns. With the passage of the Louisiana Purchase, more settlers came, and large families became landowners. After the Civil War, many families could no longer hold on to their properties, and desolation came to the area. Lake Claiborne is not just a recreational area—it holds the keys to the rich history of this part of the state and there are remnants of old houses and deep wells that can be found all over the parish. In the fall, the crepe myrtle and chinaberry trees come alive with color and are a photographer’s dream. There are 87 campsites with water and electricity, and most have picnic tables and grills for cooking. There are a limited number of cabins and group camping sites, along with a small laundry. Pets are welcome.
Would you like to get back to nature and relax? Start planning your next camping trip and visit Chicot State Park near Ville Platte, Louisiana. The park is where deer, raccoons, coyotes, and bobcats call home, and the 2,000-acre man-made lake is stocked with bass, crappie, bluegill, and sunfish, making it a fisherman’s paradise. The park became an official part of the state’s park system in 1939 and was developed under the Civilian Conservation Corps and the National Park Service. The autumn colors are reflected in the lake and the waters are so quiet that the mirror images are breathtaking. There are a total of 224 camping sites, including standard and deluxe cabins, primitive and improved tent sites, and a lodge, and there are public play and picnic areas, a boat launch, fishing pier, and rental boats.
Fall is never so beautiful and colors as vibrant as in Richland Parish near Delhi, Louisiana. The Poverty Point campgrounds can be found in the northeastern section of the state and occupy 2,700 acres with a man-made reservoir, camping sites, and watersport opportunities, prime fishing spots, and hiking trails. There is a small entrance fee, but fees are waived for those 62 and older and three and under. The public facilities are well-maintained, and the grounds are very peaceful and quiet. Hikers will enjoy the walking trails and lake, perfect for taking photos to remember the trip.
Deep in the bayous with tall cypress trees overhead and old pines standing watch over the marshes and inhabitants, Kisatchie National Forest is 600,000 acres of pure Louisiana. Maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, the area is protected for the future and permits are required for some activities and overnight camping. Louisiana isn’t called a fisherman’s paradise for nothing, and the fishing in the Kisatchie Ranger District Wilderness Area is second to none. Certain regulations apply, so make sure you stop by the ranger station or check the website to know what you need to have. There are few better places for a day hike and trails are between a half mile and 30 miles in length. You’ll experience the rolling hills and colorful landscape with beautiful lakes and rivers along the way, reflecting the gorgeous autumn rainbow. Remember to bring water since the water along the trail isn’t suitable for drinking.
You can’t go wrong with this highly family-friendly campground. There are cabins and tent and RV sites available at Lafayette KOA, which is open all year. Activities and amenities on the grounds include fishing, an 18-hole mini golf course, a playground for the kids, and a fully-stocked convenience store in case you forget something. You’ll never want to leave!
]]>Bonnet Carre Spillway in St. Charles Parish, Louisiana, welcomes over 400,000 visitors each year, who enjoy the fishing, hunting, camping, and ATV riding the spillway offers. The terrain is mostly sand and clay, but mud forms easily when it rains. The trail is open all day long. While the unique setting of the 850-acre spillway makes for a fun environment, the generally smooth trails ensure that the Bonnet Carre Spillway stays beginner friendly.
The Claiborne Multiple-Use Trail is part of the greater Kisatchie National Forest in Pineville, Louisiana, and offers over 70 miles of trail over three separate loops. The North Loop boasts 32 miles, while the Woodworth Loop has 20, and the Boy Scout Loop presents 30 miles for use. The trails take riders through the World War II military fort known as Camp Claiborne. Restrictions on types of vehicles, licensing, and speed limits exist, so be sure to check the website to ensure you’re following the necessary guidelines.
According to their website, “Muddy Bottoms ATV and Recreation Park was created to provide the surrounding community with a recreational escape not far from where they live and work.” The park is open to riders of all experience levels and ages, and offers campsite lodging. Facilities include a welcome center, pro shop, bathhouse, eating pavilion, cabins, RV hookups, sprinkler park, and amphitheater, where bands come to perform live. The park itself sits on 5,000 acres with tons of different trails to best suit your experience and comfort level. You can’t go wrong at Muddy Bottoms.
Cooterville Mud Rides in Delhi, Louisiana, is a recent addition to the Louisiana off-roading world, but has quickly made a name for itself. With over 25 miles of trails, primitive camp sites, and exciting terrain, Cooterville has a lot to offer. In addition to the trails, the 24-acre lake on-site is perfect for fishing or swimming. Restroom, shower facilities, and concession stand are on-site, too, perfect for overnight stays. Make sure to check their Facebook page for updates on live events and hours, and call before you head up to ensure space.
The Enduro Trail, in the Calcasieu Ranger District, is part of the Kisatchie National Forest and offers incredible views of longleaf pine savannahs. Three loops make up 45 miles of trails with an overall flat and twisty terrain. The soil is mostly hard packed, which makes it good for amateurs. Weather may affect the trails, so call or check online to make sure they’re open if necessary.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>Looking for a great cup of coffee to start off your adventure? From the moment you step inside the door, you’ll be greeted with the heavenly aroma of freshly-ground coffee. Tamp & Grind Coffee in Alexandria is a little hidden gem and they aren’t afraid to think outside the box to make amazing coffee and tea.
Now it’s time to fill up your belly! Stop by Le Bistreaux Coffee & Waffle Bar in Alexandria. Served all day, breakfast never tasted so good. You can choose from popular waffle favorites like s’mores, topped with graham crackers, chocolate chips, marshmallows, chocolate drizzle, and whipped cream, Louisiana Mud, made with toasted pecans, powdered sugar, maple syrup, caramel, and whipped cream, or Chicken-N-Waffles to name a few.
With over 74 miles of tree-lined mainly hard-packed trails, Claiborne Multi-Use Trails near Forest Hill, Louisiana, offers a great place for novices to participate in off-road adventures. There are vehicle requirements, restrictions, and some fees, but overnight camping is allowed with campfires in certain campsites. This multi-use trail system that is part of the Kisatchie National Forest is open to ATVs on the northern section of trails, and motorcycles and other permitted vehicles can use the southern trails.
Part of the Alexander Forest Wildlife Management Area in central Louisiana, Booker Fowler Fish Hatchery is an interesting stop. The main facility engaged in producing fish in the state, there are more than 10,000 gallons open for viewing to the public, including fish, reptiles, and other water creatures. Since opening in 1997, the hatchery has been responsible for adding over 41 million fish into the waterways of Louisiana.
After a busy and fun day of off-roading and seeing the area, you’ll have quite an appetite. Stop by Hotheads Crawfish in Alexandria, Louisiana, for the best authentic crawfish around. By the plate or by the pound, all specials and combos include corn, potatoes, and dipping sauce. Besides crawfish, you can have shrimp and crab, and sides include Cajun link sausage, mushrooms, Brussels sprouts, pineapple, sweet potatoes, corn, potatoes, and artichokes.
Susan’s Cottages in Alexandria offer the perfect answer to your need to spend the night. Breakfast is included in your stay, and cottages have a Jacuzzi, beautiful balcony, TV/DVD, and small kitchen area. Just a few minutes from downtown Alexandria, the only problem will be in not wanting to leave!
]]>Featuring great brand name products from companies like Patagonia, North Face, Black Diamond, and GSI Outdoors, the Backpacker should be the one-stop shop for all your hiking needs. Located in Lafayette and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the philosophy behind this store’s success has remained the same since opening its doors in 1974. Focused on selection, service, and quality, the Backpacker has grown into the state’s premier outfitter with the largest selection of hiking, camping, skiing, apparel, and outdoor gear. Check out their price match guarantee and save even more.
Originally founded in Arkansas in 1997, the success of the store led to an opening of the location in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 2013. With the same mission to help people be active and enjoy the great outdoors by offering high-quality products and sharing their extensive experience, they back every product they sell. Besides carrying their own line of products, they also have items from Merrell, Patagonia, Yeti, the North Face, and more. They offer educational opportunities, and their charitable arm, Gearhead Gives, is a community-supporting organization that seeks to carry out their mission statement outside the walls of the store.
A sporting goods retailer with a focus on apparel and shoes, Hibbett Sports became a publically traded company in 1996 after being in business since 1945. Official retailer for Nike, they have been the recipient of national awards for excellence for many years. Besides having the best inventory of all outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and backpacking, Hibbett Sports believes in giving back to the community, and they do so by sponsoring organizations like the American Heart Association with charitable donations and fundraisers.
Ever since their opening in 1972, Massey’s has been selling great gear and apparel that support your outdoor adventures with a focus on non-competitive recreational activities like hiking, camping, skiing, backpacking, kayaking, and canoeing. Stocking nationally-recognized brands that are the best in the industry like Patagonia, Osprey, and the North Face, the focus shifted to specializing in the products needed by hikers and backpackers at this location.
What started out as a working man’s clothing and accessories store in the early 1900s became a place over the next 100 years as a store that specializes in clothing and outdoor apparel for big and tall men. With great brand names like Dickies, Columbia, and more, the store is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
If you love exploring outdoors and are looking for a source of equipment, gear, and apparel for your next hiking, backpacking, fishing, rock climbing, camping, or boating adventure, stop by Pack & Paddle in Lafayette, Louisiana. What started as a backyard effort selling canoes in 1974 has grown to a store of over 6,000 square-feet that has a great selection of outdoor products from companies like Eagle Creek, Patagonia, and Salomon. Not sure what you need? No problem. The staff at Pack & Paddle have the experience and knowledge that will get you going with helpful workshops on topics like how to purchase the right equipment and where the best spots around the state are for hiking and camping. They also sponsor outdoor adventures and private trips.
Southeast Louisiana Scout Shop, located in Metairie, Louisiana, is an official retailer for the Boy Scouts of America, and carries everything from uniforms and apparel, to literature, crafts, gifts, and gear and equipment for hiking and camping. Featuring great and trusted brands like Eagles Nest Outfitters , Sawyer, and more, Southeast Louisiana Scout Shop carries a full line of men’s, women’s, and youth products and educational adventure literature.
]]>Fairview-Riverside State Park in Madisonville, Louisiana, opens most days at six a.m. and closes at 9 p.m. on weekdays and 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The campgrounds have restrooms and showers, as well as a dump station, group pavilion, laundry, and picnic area. Daily tours are offered, as well as foot accessible walking trails. Stop by the tennis courts for a game or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. The main attraction is the beautiful Tchefuncte River, a popular fishing destination that yields bass, bluegill, white perch, and more. Campsites include 22 premium campsites (known as “prime location sites” and come with water and electrical hookup), 59 improved campsites (water and electrical hookup included) and 20 unimproved campsites (with no electrical or water hookup). Rates change seasonally, so make sure to check the website before planning your vacation.
The North Toledo Bend State Park in Zwolle, Louisiana, offers a prime view of the Toledo Bend Reservoir, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States. Campers can book Deluxe Cabins for $150 a night on Sunday-Thursday and $175 a night Friday-Saturday, which sleeps up to six. Group camp sites are available, too, for $600 a night, but includes a dining hall and beds for up to 150 people. If you prefer regular camping to in-door cabin lounging, consider the eight premium campsites or 55 improved campsites. Nine-hundred acres of land begs to be explored, and water sports are popular on the reservoir itself.
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Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville, Louisiana, was originally a sugar plantation, but has since been repurposed into a 2,800-acre park on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain, offering prime camping opportunities. Four different kinds of camping are available, including 23 premium campsites (four with sewerage hookups), 103 improved campsites, 37 unimproved campsites, and two primitive group camping areas. Fees vary by campsite and accommodation. Visitors can enjoy a 4.8-mile hike or a 1.25-mile nature trail, as well as bird watching of over 100 different species.
Enjoy the warm weather and beach at the Grand Isle State Park. The park, located on the Gulf of Mexico, is known for its rip currents, so make sure to prepare ahead of time and check the safety warnings. Unlike other campgrounds on this list, camping at Grand Isle State Park can be a sandy affair. Forty-nine premium campsites area available to rent, along with 14 beach tent campsites for those that can’t get enough of the water. For fun, check out the 2.5-mile nature trail, swim in the water, rent a boat, or go fishing.
Reunion Lake in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, prides itself on setting a new standard for camping. Booking itself as a “Premier RV Resort,” Reunion Lake is not your typical campsite. Whereas the other inclusions on this list are public parks, Reunion Lake is a private, gated RV resort, complete with pools, restrooms, bath houses, bars, and regular events. Stop by the hot tub or spa or try your hand at the putt-putt golf course. Every RV spot has full hookups. Don’t have an RV? Consider booking a poolside cabana. Activities on the lake include kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and beach volleyball, along with much, much more.
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Lakeside RV Park in Livingston, Louisiana, takes advantage of its location next to a 17-acre fishing lake. Besides lake access, Lakeside offers tons of amenities, including a large pool, fishing, bath and laundry facilities, open-air pavilions, playground, enclosed dog park, groceries on site, and more. Regular events, like watermelon eating contests and outdoor movie nights, are scheduled for additional entertainment.
Poche Plantation Camping RV Park is situated on 18 acres of the historic, Judge Felix Poche Planation. Protected by the National Register for Historic Places, the space offers tower hook-ups for lighting, cable, TV, and Wi-Fi. Concrete patios, lawn and trash containers come standard with each space. Stop by the pool, hot tub, and flower fountains while you’re on site. Eighty-five spots are available, but make sure to call to book a reservation, just in case.
River View RV Park and Resort in Vidalia, Louisiana, takes full advantage of its location on the Mississippi River. This year-round RV park has 185 full hook-up sites, with Wi-Fi, pool, clubhouse, hot tub, playground, laundry facilities, showers, and more available on site. Additional camping options include primitive camping and furnished cottages. Gamblers, take advantage of the shuttle service to visit the Magnolia Bluffs Casino.
Visit 20 acres of Louisiana countryside at Pioneer Acadian Village RV Park and Campground in Breaux Bridge. You’re never too far from Mardi Gras celebrations, the Crawfish Festival, Lake Martin, or any number of other fantastic venues. RV sites include full hook-ups, picnic tables, outdoor pavilions, fire rings, bagged ice, mail service, volleyball, and many other amenities. It’s recommended you make a reservation to ensure a spot, especially during festival season.
The New Orleans West KOA outpost is open year-round and is “the closest KOA to the French Quarter and the finest food, sassiest jazz, and wildest times in the south.” Shuttles and city buses from the campsite provide easy access to the New Orleans French Quarter and Bourbon Street. Each campsite offers amps, Wi-Fi, cable TV, pool access, and propane.
]]>Founded in 2011, and specifically located in Vermilion Parrish, the park is in close proximity to the Vermilion River, which affords those who love to canoeing and kayaking special interest with the many lagoons in the area and access to native animals and plants. The park has a boat launch available for visitors, offers boat rentals, and provides opportunities for fishing, and there are swamp walks and birding activities. The Cypress Trail is an easy 0.7-mile trail that can be hiked and biked. There are also many beautiful overlooks and scenic areas in the park that make great photo opportunities.
Information on the status of the trail is available on the Friends of Palmetto Island State Park including events hosted at the park like the Louisiana Bird Observatory bird banding event held monthly, and other special occasions by local groups.
Overnight camping is available at the park, and there are minimal entrance fees. The park has six beautiful cabins that can accommodate up to eight people each, 96 RV campsites, a primitive campground, and backcountry campsites for reasonable per-night fees. The cabins are secluded by thick vegetation from other campers, and include a fully operational kitchen, fireplace, and screened porch. There are extra tent pads on 20 of the RV campsites. Open 365 days a year, the park also has a visitors’ center that’s open during the day and available for meetings, reunions, weddings, and other events. The park is the perfect place for family camping with a children’s splash pad, bathhouse, laundry facility, and bathrooms.
There are many excellent places to eat in the area if you want to try the local cuisine. SHUCKS! The Louisiana Seafood House is a must with its family-style dining and delicious seafood like shrimp, gator, catfish, and crab. And you can’t leave without trying a bowl of one of their famous authentic Cajun gumbo, chowder, or stew.
For those who enjoy learning about the history of the area, there are several nearby places to satisfy your curiosity. The Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site offers self-guided tours daily and there are examples of local culture that includes Acadian, Creole, Indian, African, French, Spanish, slaves and freemen.
The Louisiana Military Hall of Fame & Museum has items of interest about those who have served in various military branches in the state. The free museum is open Thursday through Saturday, and group tours are welcome if scheduled ahead of the visit. There are outdoor exhibits and restoration projects in progress, including a chance to see various aircraft and landing crafts up close and personal.
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