11 Incredible Places In Louisiana That Will Bring Out The Explorer In You

It's time to get out there and explore all that the state has to offer us. Here are 11 incredible places in Louisiana where Louisiana residents can let loose and have a fantastic adventure! Check out these amazing gems below and start planning your next adventure.

1. Fort Pike, Outside of New Orleans

Fort Pike was built in 1819 and managed to survive several wars and hurricanes, but ultimate nature did a number on this historic fort. Since this article was written, Fort Pike has been closed to the public.

2. Poverty Point World Heritage Site, Pioneer, LA

This world heritage site is the perfect place to set off on a historical investigation of Louisiana’s ancient past. Once a massive community, Poverty Point is over 3,000 years old and remains one of the biggest mysteries in Louisiana. During your visit, you can take the nature paths to explore the area further, and be sure to check out the visitor center where you can see all of the unique finds that have been uncovered during excavations.

3. Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge

This is an amazing natural area in Louisiana to explore, known for its influx of birds that visit each year. In 1940, one visitor recorded the largest number of ducks ever surveyed in the air in the United States—estimating more than 8 million birds on the 50-square-mile lake!

4. The Pea Farm, Shreveport, LA

For a more spooky adventure, check out this old abandoned jail in Louisiana that was closed down in the 1950s. We don't promote trespassing, so be sure you're not putting yourself in danger and maybe just check this one out from the road.

5. Columbia, LA

When it comes to small towns in Louisiana, Columbia checks all the boxes. Check out this amazing town in Caldwell Parish that's perfect for a day trip. Here you'll find the home of the Schepis Building, the Meditation Chapel, and an exploration of an ancient ocean dig of 2000-year-old fossils organized by the University of Louisiana Monroe.

6. Fort Macomb, Outside of New Orleans

This amazing abandoned fort on the outskirts of New Orleans is truly unique and worth the adventure it takes to get there.

7. Sicily Island Hills Wildlife Management Area, Catahoula Parish, LA

Easily one of the most incredible places in Louisiana that not enough people visit, this wildlife area includes Louisiana’s largest waterfall at 17 feet high. There are actually a few different waterfalls within the WMA and they're all fairly easy to get to!

Just keep in mind that the landscape here is a bit more challenging than say... southern Louisiana's boardwalk trails. Now, these trails are still relatively easy when you compare them to some of the hikes in the rest of the country, but still a good practice to make sure you've got the proper footwear when you tackle these primitive trails!

8. Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge

Explore this beautiful refuge that is home to the largest living Bald Cypress tree, pictured here. Standing tall at nearly 100 feet, it's impossible to miss this massive tree.

9. Kisatchie National Forest

Get lost in the only national forest in Louisiana, with enough trails and natural beauty to keep you occupied for weeks. One of my favorite hikes here is the Longleaf Vista Interpretive Trail, which has some truly inspirational tree-top views that are hard to find down here in Louisiana.

10. Cypremort Point State Park, Vermillion Bay, St. Mary Parish

For a beautiful and relaxing adventure, check out all that this amazing state park in Louisiana has to offer. Not only are the sunsets insanely beautiful, but the stretch of beach and the beautiful Vermilion Bay will have you thinking you've drifted off to a Caribbean island.

11. Lake Bruin State Park

One of the finest freshwater lakes in Louisiana with depths of more than 65 feet, Lake Bruin State Park offers campsites and even boat rentals for a full expedition!

Have you ever been to any of these places? What are your favorites to explore in Louisiana? Let us know in the comments below!