There are 21 state parks in Louisiana, and each one is worthy of a visit. While the larger parks like Chicot State Park or Tickfaw State Park are known for their labyrinth of trails and sensational wildlife viewing, there’s something to be said for the smaller state parks, like Fairview-Riverside State Park. Don’t let the size of this little park fool you; this tiny but mighty state park really packs a punch in both the history and nature departments. Let’s check it out.
Fairview-Riverside State Park might just be the most underrated state park in Louisiana.
Nestled on the banks of the Tchefuncte River in Madisonville, Fairview-Riverside State Park clocks in at a mere 99 acres, but don’t let its size fool you.
When you enter the park, you’ll notice a rather large house that seems out of place for a state park. That’s the Otis House, built in 1885 by William Theodore Jay, who owned a sawmill near the area.
Frank Otis purchased the property in 1936 to use the mansion as a summer home. When he died in 1962, he left the house to the state of Louisiana, requesting that the land be used for public recreation. You can take a tour of the inside of the home and learn all about the history of the place during your visit.
After you’ve toured the Otis House, take a casual stroll along the boardwalk. You’ll have a great opportunity to see wildlife along the river and watch the boats pass by.
If you'd like to stay a few days, the park offers several different camping options. Bring your RV or really "rough it" and pitch a tent so you can spend an evening sleeping under the stars.
