Top State Parks in Northeastern Louisiana
These four state parks offer outdoor amenities the whole family will enjoy.
At a Glance
- Louisiana is home to 22 state parks, recreation areas and preserves, along with 16 state historic sites.
- Popular state parks in Louisiana for enjoying the outdoors includes Poverty Point Reservoir State Park, Chemin-A-Haut State Park, Lake D'Arbonne State Park and Lake Bruin State Park.
- Top activities to do at Louisiana's state parks include exploring bayous, watching wildlife, paddle trips, boat excursions, visiting historic sites, fishing and more.
Poverty Point Reservoir State Park
Start your journey at Poverty Point Reservoir State Park. Situated around a 2,700-acre manmade lake, this is a boater’s dream. Rent a flat-bottom boat or canoe and row out to get a wide-angle view, and keep an eye on the sky for cormorants, ducks and Louisiana’s state bird, the pelican. Fishing is serious business at this park, which has produced numerous state record-winning catches. When it’s time for bed, choose from one of the park’s spacious waterfront cabins, lodges or RV spots. A night out under the stars is the perfect way to finish the day at Poverty Point.
When visiting the nearby Poverty Point World Heritage Site, you'll enjoy the quiet, serene landscape that surrounds it. Like much of northeast Louisiana, the landscape has remained relatively unchanged for generations. Look a little farther beyond the famed archaeological site to discover other Louisiana outdoor destinations waiting to be explored.
Chemin-A-Haut State Park
Chemin-A-Haut State Park is a unique destination with a unique name. French for “high road,” Chemin-A-Haut is located in an area that ancient American Indians migrated through seasonally. Today, it’s northeast Louisiana’s most family-friendly park, with a swimming complex that includes a wading pool for younger visitors, as well as two playgrounds. Rent a kayak and paddle between the cypress trees on Bayou Bartholomew or take a ride on one of the park’s paved bike trails. Then wind down at one of Chemin-A-Haut’s lakefront cabins.
Lake D'Arbonne State Park
Lake D’Arbonne State Park is a top pick for outdoors enthusiasts visiting Louisiana, and not just for its namesake reservoir either. Spanning more than 15,000 acres, Lake D'Arbonne is home to prize-worthy bass and bluegill. If you’re more interested in capturing photos than fish, there are plenty of opportunities for that, too. Hike one of the park’s four trails in search of the perfect shot or get a close-up view of the lake’s massive cypress stands from a flat-bottom boat or canoe, available for rent. Work up an appetite by pedaling one of the park’s bike trails, then grill outside of a Lake D’Arbonne cabin. Bring plenty of friends—these lakeside lodges can accommodate up to 14 guests.
Lake Bruin State Park
Water sports and fishing are just a couple reasons visitors rave about Lake Bruin State Park, just a stone’s throw from the Mississippi River. The park has plenty of freshwater angling opportunities, plus enough space for higher-powered motorboats, many of which you’ll see pulling water skiers around the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Poverty Point World Heritage Site?
Poverty Point World Heritage Site preserves massive earthworks built by Native Americans more than 3,400 years ago.
What activities are available at Poverty Point Reservoir State Park?
Poverty Point Reservoir State Park is centered on a large manmade lake, making it a boater's dream. Visitors can rent a flat-bottom boat or canoe and watch for cormorants, ducks and the Louisiana state bird, the pelican.
What wildlife can I see at Louisiana's state parks?
Louisiana's state parks are known for birding opportunities, with cormorants, ducks and pelicans commonly spotted around lakes, bayous and swamps.
Can I fish at Louisiana's state parks?
Yes! Parks such as Lake D'Arbonne State Park are known specifically for top-notch fishing, and nearby Poverty Point Reservoir State Park also offers lake access for anglers and boaters alike.
Where is Lake D'Arbonne State Park and what can I do there?
Lake D'Arbonne State Park in northeast Louisiana is a top spot for fishing, drawing anglers looking for a quiet, top-notch catch on one of the region's most popular lakes.
Is Chemin-A-Haut State Park good for outdoor recreation?
Yes, Chemin-A-Haut offers an equestrian trail, hiking, fishing, camping and kayaking along Bayou Bartholomew.
