There’s nothing like spending an afternoon surrounded by nature. This Louisiana nature sanctuary is perfect for a day trip. Today we’re taking a look at the Joyce Wildlife Management Area, a beautiful wetland tucked away in the Pontchartrain Basin. Let’s check it out:

Clocking in at a staggering 42,292 acres, the Joyce Wildlife Management Area is a picture-perfect paradise for nature lovers.
Kristi Yates/All Trails
Hunting, trapping, fishing, and boating are all popular pastimes at the WMA. One of my favorite ways to enjoy the space is via the nature trails.
The boardwalk trail allows you to walk right over the cypress-tupelo swamp.
Karen Marie/All Trails
Boardwalk trails are my absolute favorite. They give you access to swampy areas that you wouldn't be able to get to any other way!

Of course, the downfall of boardwalk trails is that they sometimes sit just above the water line. If there's a heavy rainfall, the trail could be underwater.
Joyce WMA is a popular spot for birdwatching.
Tyler Hebert/All Trails
The WMA is a part of the American Wetlands Birding Trail. You stand a good chance of seeing bald eagles, osprey, various waterfowl, and countless others flying around. It’s also a very popular pitstop for migratory birds during the fall and spring.

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Birds aren’t the only wildlife that call the WMA home.
Cole Belkwell/Google Reviews
Alligators, nutria, turtles, and even the Louisiana black bear all thrive in these wetlands.
You’ll want to wear some sturdy, closed-toe shoes when you visit.
Lucy Delgago/Google Reviews
Snakes are common sightings here, including the cottonmouth. They blend in better than you’d think, and they are extremely venomous. This is one of the reasons why dogs aren’t allowed on the trail. And why you should always stay on the trail.
There are informative signs peppered along the trail so you can learn about your surroundings.
Stephen Payne/Google Reviews
The trail is open year-round, and it always looks different.
Perkins Family/Google Reviews
Depending on the time of year you visit, you could see all of the beautiful wildflowers in bloom.

Have you ever visited this Louisiana nature sanctuary? Learn more about the Joyce WMA on the Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries website. Grab a trail map ahead of time from our friends at AllTrails. 

Looking for more things to do in Ponchatoula? We’ve got you covered…

Filled With Adventures, Ponchatoula Is The Rural Town Near New Orleans That’s A Summer Must-Visit

 

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Joyce Wildlife Management Area, Ponchatoula, LA 70454, USA