Get Away From The Crowds At This Incredible, Little-Known State Park In Louisiana

There are 21 state parks in Louisiana, and each one of them is worthy of a day trip or a weekend adventure. Of course, some state parks are more popular than others, but that doesn't mean that the lesser-known parks are any less picturesque. If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a little peace and quiet, then Fairview-Riverside State Park is right up your alley.

Clocking in at 98 acres, Fairview-Riverside State Park is certainly one of Louisiana's smaller state parks, but it's actually not the smallest!

That honor goes to Lake Bruin State Park, a 53-acre state park over in Tensas Parish.

When you first arrive, you'll come across a massive house that will have you second-guessing if you've accidentally stumbled into private property.

Just one of the many surprises waiting for you when you visit this Louisiana state park.

This is the Otis House.

The house was built in 1885 by William Theodore Jay who owned a sawmill nearby. New Orleanian Frank Otis purchased the property in 1936 and it became his summer home until he passed away in 1962.

Tours of the Otis House Museum are offered Wednesday through Sunday, and admission is $4 per adult. Kids 12 and under are free, and so are seniors 62+

Before he passed away, Otis left both the house and the land to the state requesting that it be used for public recreation, and thanks to him, we now have this beautiful state park.

Nestled along the Tchefuncte River, it's a serene little park that's perfect for escaping the crowds and enjoying the scenery.

There are walking paths along the riverbank that are kid-friendly and ADA-accessible.

Louisiana Tours & Adventures offers boat tours on the river, check them out! Pack a lunch and enjoy an afternoon cruising down the river for a uniquely Louisianan adventure.

As you wander around the park, you'll catch little glimpses of the property's past.

So even if you don't go inside the house, you'll still be able to see little glimpses here and there.

If you can, stick around until sunset. That's when Fairview-Riverside State Park really shines.

There's nothing like a waterfront sunset, and this underrated state park in Louisiana has one of the best!

While there are no cabins available to rent at this state park, there are campsites for both RVs and primitive tent camping. Visit the Louisiana State Park website for more information. While you're in the area, grab a seat at Morton's, a waterfront restaurant just down the road from Fairview-Riverside State Park. Many will tell you they've got the best oysters in Louisiana! Personally, I'm a huge fan of Morton's gumbo, but the seafood bisque is a close second in my book.

Fairview-Riverside State Park is not far from another beloved state park, Fontainebleau State Park. Here you'll have a little more room (2,800 acres) to explore, and even a beautiful beach to enjoy. For more adventures, check out some of our favorite state parks in Louisiana.