Louisiana
Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Little-Known Swimming Hole In Louisiana That Locals Want To Keep Secret

Discover the hidden swimming holes and waterfalls in Louisiana's J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area.

Published Dec 14, 2022

Written by 

Jackie Sutherlin

There's just something about finding a natural swimming hole that takes your summer from good to great, and with Louisiana's endless amount of rivers, lakes, and bayous, you can bet that there are plenty of swimming holes in Louisiana to splash around in. While you do need to be careful when you go swimming in Louisiana's waterways (remember, alligators are found in just about every body of water in Louisiana), there's one little swimming hole tucked away in the forest that's so perfect, that you'll never want to leave.

The J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area is 7,500-acre natural oasis that any outdoor explorer would love.

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Justin P./All Trails

It was established in 1980 and was formally called the Sicily Island Hills Wildlife Management Area and is a popular hunting, trapping, and fishing area for northern Louisianians.

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There are multiple trails within the WMA, and each one will show you the raw, rugged landscape of this hidden gem.

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Kim Cox/All Trails

Louisiana is known for being relatively flat, but that’s not the case here. The terrain can get pretty rugged, with high ridges and steep drop-offs.

As you make your way along the trails, you’ll be shaded by the canopies of towering loblolly-shortleaf pines and upland hardwoods.

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Sophie Webber/All Trails

You might even find you have the trails to yourself!

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There are four different waterways that flow through the WMA.

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Justin P./Google

The largest of them, Big Creek, is your best bet for taking a dip after a long hike.

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Justin P./Google

You might even stumble into a little waterfall!

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Justin P./Google

These swimming pools aren't deep, but they're perfect for a refreshing splash.

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Justin P./All Trails

Speaking of waterfalls, this particular WMA is home to not one but three different waterfalls: Sandy Bayou Waterfall, St. Mary's Falls, and Rock Falls.

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Kristopher Guidry/All Trails

If you can time your visit after a rainfall, you'll see them in their full cascading capacity.

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Justin P./Google

Jump in and stand underneath the fall!

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KC Temple/All Trails

It's not every day that you get to take a waterfall shower in Louisiana. It's no wonder why locals want to keep this hidden gem a secret!

For more information, visit the Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries website.

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

5 Places In Louisiana That Are Like A Caribbean Paradise In The Summer

Discover some of the most beautiful and fun beaches in Louisiana that offer a variety of activities and scenic views.

Updated Jul 3, 2024

Written by 

Jackie Sutherlin

We may not have the white sandy beaches that our friends in Florida have, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have some spectacular hidden gems that are nothing short of the most beautiful places in Louisiana. There's nothing like a Louisiana summer! Next time you’re looking to have some fun in the sun, consider these tropical places in Louisiana where you’ll feel like you’ve drifted away to a Caribbean island. They're some of the most fun things to do in summer in Louisiana. Don't forget your sunscreen!

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1. Lake Claiborne

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T Christian/Google

The beautiful sandy beach at Lake Claiborne State Park provides endless hours of fun and the cool waters of the lake are great for keeping cool. It's easy to see why it's one of the best beaches in Louisiana since you've got the best of both worlds: shade and sun! When you’ve had enough of the sun, you can retreat back to the cooling shade of the pine trees. There are plenty of picnic tables along the treeline, too, so pack a lunch!

2. Holly Beach

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StwBuck/Trip Advisor
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Amy Britt/Google

Head on down to the Cajun Riviera for some beautiful scenery. Holly Beach, located in Cameron Parish right on the Gulf, is wonderful for looking for seashells and there are several houses you can rent if you’d like to make a weekend out of it. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can bring your camping gear and pitch a tent right on the beach!

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This amazing drone video shows just how breathtaking Holly Beach really is:

3. Cypremort Point State Park

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Cypremort Point State Park/Facebook
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Chastity Savage/Google

There’s a little stretch of man-made beach over at Cypremort Point State Park that’s a delightful spot to sit back and watch the sailboats go by. Fishing is a popular pastime here, but what you really need to do it stay to watch the sunset—it’s simply mesmerizing and easily one of the most tropical getaways in Louisiana.

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4. Grand Isle State Park

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Adeel Abid Khan/Google

Grand Isle has seven miles of beaches you can sink your toes in. It's also a fisherman’s paradise, so be sure to bring your rod and reel. It's yet another spot where you can also camp right on the beach, so you can fall asleep to the sounds of the waves crashing on the shore.

5. White Sands Lake Day Beach

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Alexander Ignacio/Google

For fun for the whole family, spend an afternoon at White Sands Lake in Franklinton. The spring-fed lake makes it one of the clearest lakes in Louisiana, and the aqua park is fun for all ages. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the lake on your own.

Did your favorite tropical getaway in Louisiana make the list? What beaches in Louisiana did we miss? Add yours in the comments! If you're looking for more fun, put on your summer hat and check these wonderful places out:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/louisiana/things-to-do-in-summer-la/

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Nature|Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

5 Lazy Rivers In Louisiana That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day

Discover some of the best lazy rivers for tubing in Louisiana to cool down during the hot summer months.

Updated Jul 2, 2024

Written by 

Jackie Sutherlin

Lazy rivers in Louisiana can bring a peaceful cooling to some brutally hot summer days. Spending the day on the water is a great way to stay out in nature while relaxing in the beautiful surroundings. Below we've listed just a few lazy rivers (some are natural, some are man-made) that are some of the best places to go tubing in Louisiana. Don't forget your sunscreen!

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1. Bogue Chitto River: Franklinton, Washington Parish

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Raymond Sweet/Google

Sit back and relax as you go tubing in Louisiana along the Bogue Chitto River for a few hours. Beautiful scenery, great friends, and the sun shining down on your face. Sounds like a day in paradise, right? Louisiana River Adventures is one of the most popular tubing companies in this area, and the staff offers tubes of all shapes and sizes in addition to canoeing and kayaking. And the best part: Reservations are not required.

2. Whisky Chitto River: Allen, Beauregard, and Vernon parishes

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Ana Magan/Tripadvisor

Also known as the Ouiska Chitto River, this river flows through an area that was once referred to as "no man’s land" and was home to adventurers, robbers, cutthroats, murderers, and even pirates. It’s rumored that Jean Lafitte buried his treasure somewhere along the river banks. These days, it’s a beautiful float down the river near me where you’ll be surrounded by nature and quartz sand beaches. What a perfect way to spend a summer day in Louisiana!

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3. Coushatta Casino Resort: Kinder

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Coushatta Casino Resort/Facebook

One of the best places to go tubing in Louisiana that's not out in the wild is at this luxury resort in Kinder. Underwater jets help propel you along the 500 linear feet. The lazy river is welcome to guests staying at the Seven Clans Hotel, The Grand Hotel, or The Inn at Coushatta.

4. L’Auberge Casino Resort: Lake Charles

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L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake/Facebook

Another spot for those who still want the relaxing sensation of floating down the river without having to deal with the elements, this lazy river in Louisiana could be the place for you. is a great spot to spend the day floating around, swimming up to the poolside bar, and maybe even enjoying a frozen cocktail in a serene, bug-free zone. Discover more on the L'Auberge Casino Resort website.

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5. Blue Bayou Lazy River: Baton Rouge

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Blue Bayou Dixie Landin'/Facebook

Another river for those who aren’t looking to venture out into nature, Blue Bayou Water Park is the ultimate water park in Louisiana. You could stay in this river all day as it takes you around and around the park. The river isn’t very deep, and there are little bridges and waterfalls every so often to cool you down. Plus, multiple lifeguards ensure a safe experience for everyone.

Have you visited any of these peaceful spots on the list? Let us know in the comments below! Check out the cool swimwear available on the L.L.Bean website

And before it gets cold again, be sure to peruse our best road trips in Louisiana.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/louisiana/best-state-parks-in-louisiana/

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