Louisiana has 21 state parks, each one worth exploring. (Louisiana previously had 22, but unfortunately, Hodges Gardens State Park is permanently closed). While many of the parks are well over 1,000 acres, there’s something to be said for the smaller parks in the state. These six state parks to visit in Louisiana are all under 900 acres and shouldn’t be overlooked—because sometimes the best things come in tiny packages!
1. Lake Bruin State Park
At only 53 acres, Lake Bruin is one of the smallest state parks to visit in Louisiana. Originally established as a fish hatchery in 1928, the park attracts many visitors each year for fishing and other water sports. Several picnic tables and grills are situated near the lake, as well as playground areas and a covered pavilion.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Lake Bruin State Park.
2. Fairview-Riverside State Park
This beautiful 99-acre park is set along the banks of the Tchefuncte River and offers plenty of attractions for visitors. Built in 1885, the Otis House Museum is located within the park and is perfect for those looking to get a glimpse of history. It's located at 119 Fairview Drive, Madisonville, LA 70447.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Fairview-Riverside State Park.
3. Grand Isle State Park
Located at the tip of the boot, this 140-acre park is right on the Gulf of Mexico and you’ll love the stunning views. There’s a 2.5-mile nature trail that’s perfect for birdwatching, and when you visit, you can camp right on the beach. It's located on Admiral Craik Drive, Grand Isle, LA 70358.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Grand Isle State Park.
4. Jimmie Davis State Park
Situated on a peninsula over at Caney Lake, Jimmie Davis State Park’s 294 acres offer two boat launches and a fishing pier for those looking for freshwater fishing. The park also has several cabins so you can spend the weekend relaxing among the beautiful pine and hardwood forests. It's the perfect park to be if you're looking for things to do outside in Louisiana. It's located at 1209 State Park Road, Chatham, LA, 71226.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Jimmie Davis State Park.
5. St. Bernard State Park
Ideal for anyone looking for a little bit of nature, but doesn’t want to stray too far away from the city, St. Bernard State Park is the perfect spot. The 358-acre state park is located right along the Mississippi River and contains several man-made lagoons. The park’s nature trail is an easy stroll through a peaceful natural surrounding, and picnic tables and grills are also available. It's located at 501 St Bernard Parkway, Braithwaite, LA, 70040.
Visit the Louisiana State Parks website for more information.
6. Cypremort Point State Park
Right on the Vermilion Bay, Cypremort Point State Park is perfect for fisherman. Not only is there a 100-foot fishing pier, but due to its location, you can launch your boat and head out to the Gulf if desired. There’s a half mile stretch of beach which is wonderful to sink your toes in, and it’s a popular place for water skiing, windsurfing, and sailing. The 185-acre park has several cabins with gorgeous views of Louisiana’s natural landscape. It's one of the best state parks to visit in Louisiana and is located at 306 Beach Lane, Cypremort Point, LA, 70538.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Cypremort Point State Park.
7. Bayou Segnette State Park
This state park offers something for everyone. Clocking in at 676 acres, Bayou Segnette State Park is located just a short drive from New Orleans and features dozens of recreational opportunities. In the summer, the wave pool is quite popular, while boating, fishing, canoeing and hiking are always popular year round activities. It's located at 7777 Westbank Expy, Westwego, Louisiana, 70094.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Bayou Segnette State Park.
8. Chemin-A-Haut State Park
Chemin-a-haut means "high road" in French, and you’ll understand why the park is named as such when you visit. Much of the park is on a high bluff overlooking beautiful Bayou Bartholomew. One of the more popular attractions at the park is an 8-mile equestrian trail for horseback riders. Also featured in this 750-acre park are multiple picnic tables and grills, nature trails, cabins, and two playgrounds. It's such an incredible park to visit if you're looking for things to do outside in Louisiana. It's located at 14656 State Park Road, Bastrop, LA, 71220.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Chemin-A-Haut State Park.
9. Lake Claiborne State Park
Opened in 1974, Lake Claiborne is 643 acres of outdoor fun. Attractions include 6 miles of hiking trails, 5 miles of mountain biking trails, two world class disc golf courses, and of course, access to Lake Claiborne. Boats and canoes are available to rent for anyone looking to spend some time on the water. It's located at 225 State Park Road, Homer, LA, 71040.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Lake Claiborne State Park.
10. Lake D’Arbonne State Park
There’s something for everyone at this 655-acre state park. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the rolling hills of their hiking trails, relax and catch some fish at one of the five fishing piers, or challenge some friends in a round of disc golf on their 18-hole course. The 15,250-acre lake is perfect for spending the day on the water fishing or water skiing. It's one of the best state parks to visit in Louisiana and is located at 3628 Evergreen Road, Farmerville, LA, 71222.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Lake D’Arbonne State Park.
11. North Toledo Bend State Park
The largest park on the list, North Toledo Bend State Park is 900 acres, just 100 acres smaller than its counterpart, South Toledo Bend State Park. Situated on the shores of the Toledo Bend Reservoir, this park is a fisherman’s paradise. There are two trails at the park, a 1.5-mile trail and a more intense four-mile trail. The reservoir attracts fishermen from all over the country. It's located at 2907 North Toledo Bend Road, Zwolle, LA, 71486.
Read our previous coverage to learn more about Toledo Bend Reservoir.
What are your favorite state parks to visit in Louisiana? Let us know in the comments below!
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