We know what you’re thinking. Louisiana and waterfalls? That just doesn’t seem right. And you’re right, Louisiana is known for beautiful bayous and swamps, not towering cascades. But Louisiana does in fact have a few waterfalls….three to be precise. Luckily, they’re all located in the same spot, so you can check off all three in one day.

To see these waterfalls, you’ll want to head over to the J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area in Catahoula Parish.
Justin P./Google
This 7,524-acre WMA is full of hiking trails that’ll have you scrambling! Don’t worry, these steep inclines won’t have you reaching a high altitude... but for Louisiana, it’s impressive!
There are three waterfalls here: Rock Falls, St. Mary’s Falls, and Sandy Bayou Waterfall.
Kristopher Guidry/All Trails
The tallest of the three is Rock Falls, which cascades 17 feet and currently stands as the tallest waterfall in Louisiana. St. Mary’s Falls is right around 10 feet, and bringing up the rear is the Sandy Bayou Waterfall clocking in at a tiny but mighty five feet.
The longest of the trails within the WMA is about seven miles, but both the Rock Falls Trail and St. Mary’s Falls Trail measure around one mile, so they’re perfect for an afternoon adventure.
Justin P./All Trails
Plus, since the area has several rivers and streams running through it, you may be blessed with tiny cascades like this one.
Here's the Sandy Bayou Waterfall.
Justin P./Google
Even at just five feet, you'll be amazed. Once you see this one in person, just wait 'til you see the others!
St. Mary's Falls is double the cascade, double the fun.
Justin P./Google
It's helpful to time your hike after a rainfall. Yes, you may be hiking through some mud, but the trade-off is getting to see more powerful waterfalls.
You can even walk behind this one!
Kenya Fowler/Google
Make sure you're wearing proper shoes here, as the area can be slippery!
And finally, Rock Falls.
Liz Lowry/All Trails
Standing at 17 feet, it's the tallest waterfall in Louisiana, and as you can see, it's certainly not your average Louisiana landscape!

Grab a map of the J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area from the website and start making plans to check these waterfalls off your bucket list. For more adventures, check out the labyrinth of hiking trails within the Kistatchie National Forest. 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Related Articles

Explore Louisiana

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