Louisiana has an abundance of waterways. From the Red River down to the Atchafalaya River Basin, the Bayou State is peppered with waterways of all shapes and sizes. Growing up in Louisiana, you’ve probably spent much of your life on the water. We learn to fish, crab, kayak, and boat from an early age, and we’re always looking for that next river or lake to explore. Lake Pontchartrain is the largest lake in Louisiana, and it’s certainly worth a road trip.

Covering an area of 630 square miles, Lake Pontchartrain is the biggest lake in Louisiana.

Technically, the lake is actually more of a tidal lagoon since it connects with Lake Borgne through a a narrow passage called The Rigolets.

Lake Pontchartrain was formed somewhere between 2,600 and 4,000 years ago as the Mississippi River Delta evolved.

The lake averages a depth of about 12-14 feet, with some shipping channels kept deeper through dredging to ensure ships can pass safely through. The lake is about 40 miles from east to west and about 24 miles from north to south.

Lake Pontchartrain is located across six different parishes in Louisiana.

Those six parishes are St. Tammany Parish, Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish, St. John the Baptist Parish, St. Charles Parish, and Tangipahoa Parish.

Before European settlers, the lake was named by Native Americans as "Okwata" which means "wide water."

In 1699, French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville renamed it to honor Louis Phelypeaux, the Count de Pontchartrain who served as minister of finance during King Louis XIV’s reign.

The lake is a popular attraction for fishermen and boaters looking to spend some time in the water.

Sailing on the lake is quite popular, too.

One of the easiest ways to see this beautiful lake is by driving on the Causeway.

This 24-mile bridge connects New Orleans with the north shore and offers some beautiful skyline shots and endless water views.

Both the north and south shores have several recreational parks where you can enjoy a day on the lake.

Fontainebleau State Park is a great option. Not only do they have several trails that will lead you around the lake, but a beautiful pier and a sandy beach to sink your toes into.

The Mandeville Lakefront is a spectacular spot to take a casual stroll.

There are several benches so you can sit back and enjoy the view, plus a few playground peppered along the park for the little ones.

Walking along the lakefront underneath the canopies of trees with Spanish moss swaying as the wind blows through your hair sounds like the perfect quintessential Louisiana day.

Pro trip: the Mandeville Lakefront is one of the best places to watch the sun set over the lake.

New Orleans also has several parks and restaurants nestled along the shores of the lake for anyone looking to spend some time near the water.

For a sensational sunset dinner, head over to The Blue Crab.

When was the last time you visited this stunning slice of paradise? What is your favorite way to explore this Louisiana lake? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.