In 1980, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries began to develop what is known today as the J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area. Today, the wildlife management area sprawls across over 7,500 acres in Catahoula Parish and is one of the most underrated wildlife management areas in the state.

If you’re up for an adventure, the J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area does not disappoint.
Justin P./All Trails
Formerly known as the Sicily Island Hills Wildlife Management Area, the name changed in 2015 in memory of J.C. "Sonny" Gilbert, a state senator from 1960-1972.
The terrain is some of the most unique in Louisiana.
Paul/Google
The WMA is full of high ridges with sharp drop-offs, so be sure to watch where you’re going.
There are three nature trails within the WMA.
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Each trail offers a unique perspective of the WMA, but more importantly, each trail features a waterfall!
KC Temple/All Trails

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 A Short But Beautiful Hike, Rock Falls Trail Leads To A Little-Known Waterfall In Louisiana

A Short But Beautiful Hike, Rock Falls Trail Leads To A Little-Known Waterfall In Louisiana
That's right, waterfalls in Louisiana!
Justin P./Google
These waterfalls are easily some of the most underrated natural attractions in the state.
The longest trail, The Big Creek Hiking Trail will take you around the northern end of the WMA, winding through about seven miles of beautiful scenery.
Justin P./Google
The other two trails, St. Mary’s Falls Trail and the Rock Falls Trail, are each under two miles and - as you may have guessed - feature a waterfall along the trail.
Sophie Webber/All Trails
Pictured above is Rock Falls. At 17 feet, it's the tallest waterfall in Louisiana. It may not be a thundering cascade, but we think it's quite pretty!
St. Mary's Fall is about 10 feet, and equally as lovely as Rock Falls.
Joshua Poe/All Trails
You could listen to the water cascading over the falls for hours - it's that peaceful.
The WMA is open daily from dawn until dusk.
Tyler Snell/All Trails

For more information, including a trail map and more, visit the Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries website. Remember, you’ll need a permit and/or a license to enter any wildlife management areas in Louisiana, and you can learn more about that here.

If you’ve ever seen any of these waterfalls in person, let us know in the comments below!

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J.C. "Sonny" Gilbert Wildlife Management Area, Sicily Island, LA 71368, USA