The Incredible Road Trip Through Louisiana That Leads You To 7 Stunning Lakes

Gas up the car, grab some road trip snacks and let's hit the road. Today, we're taking an epic road trip to some of the best lakes in Louisiana. Don't forget your bathing suit, because these lakes are perfect for splashing around.

To keep this list fairly brief, we’re limiting ourselves to northern and central Louisiana.

You can add to this map with extra stops if you’d like and make this adventure as customizable as you wish.

1. Lake Claiborne

Lake Claiborne’s 6,400-acre surface area makes it a haven for waterskiing, fishing, and swimming. Lake Claiborne State Park has an excellent little beach to enjoy as well as several hiking trails with waterfront views.

2. Lake D’Arbonne

Head east for about 30 miles and you’ll find yourself at Lake D’Arbonne. This lake in northern Louisiana has five fishing piers to drop a line from and a boat launch, too. Record-breaking catches of bass and catfish have been caught here, so you might just reel in a prize winner in this lake!

3. Sibley Lake

Sitting pretty in Natchitoches, Sibley Lake’s 2,000 acres boast 38 miles of shoreline to enjoy. Waterskiing, boating, and fishing are very popular activities in the summertime, just make sure you get a permit first. Permits are $10 and can be purchased at either the Wal-Mart or One Stop Grocery on LA Hwy. 504.

4. Toledo Bend

Toledo Bend is on the western side of Louisiana, straddling the Texas/Louisiana border. There are several access points, including two state parks on either end of the lake. The Toledo Bend Reservoir is known for its excellent fishing. In fact, this lake is one of the best fishing lakes in the US!

It’s also a great area for birdwatching. This area has one of the highest concentrations of bald eagles in Louisiana, so keep your eyes peeled!

5. Valentine Lake

Tucked away in the Kisatchie National Forest, Valentine Lake offers a peaceful setting to enjoy a day on the water. The 46-acre lake is best accessed via the Valentine Lake Recreation Complex. The Valentine Lake Trail is also nearby, and it’s a quick and easy 2-mile loop trail with lovely waterfront views.

6. Kincaid Reservoir

This lake is just a stone’s throw away from Valentine Lake. The Kincaid Reservoir is a great spot for boating and swimming. It’s also an underrated fishing lake in Louisiana. With a little patience and some skill, anglers may catch a record-breaking bass in these waters!

7. Lake Chicot

Our last stop brings us to the always enchanting Lake Chicot. Fishermen love the lake for its incredible catches of largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. I’d recommend renting a canoe from the state park and enjoying the 8-mile canoe trail. If you prefer to stay on land, the 20-mile hiking trail will take you all over the perimeter of the lake with stunning views every step of the way.

The waterfront cabins at Chicot State Park sit right over the water and have their own dock so you can go from bed to boat in no time!

Check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List to ensure nothing gets left behind. Safe travels!