We love all nature trails, but there’s a special place in our hearts for trails with a waterfront view. Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a relatively new (established in 1997) wildlife refuge in northern Louisiana that’s a nature lover’s paradise. While most of the Greater Monroe Area has most likely explored the refuge, it’s a relatively little-known spot for the majority of Louisianians, but not for long. Let’s check it out.

Covering approximately 4,200 acres in Ouachita Parish, the Black Bayou Lake Wildlife Refuge plays an important role in being the habitat for countless migratory birds and local wildlife.
Maps24575096978/Trip Advisor
Stop off at the visitor’s center first, so you can learn more about the flora and fauna in the area.
After you’ve soaked up some knowledge in the visitors center, it’s time to hit the trails!
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge/Facebook
There are over five miles of trails to explore.
Most of the trails are under three miles and are loop trails, so you can mix and match to fit your schedule.
Brenda Olguin/All Trails
The trails are easy enough for even the youngest of nature lovers to enjoy, so bring the whole family!
Keep your eyes peeled along the trail. You’re in a wildlife refuge, after all, so you stand a good chance at spotting some critters!
William Watson/Google

Related Stories

There's A Lake Hiding In A Louisiana Forest Where You Can Camp Year-Round

There's A Lake Hiding In A Louisiana Forest Where You Can Camp Year-Round

 Soak Your Stress Away In The Forests Of Louisiana's Lake Claiborne State Park At White Tail Trail

Soak Your Stress Away In The Forests Of Louisiana's Lake Claiborne State Park At White Tail Trail

 You'll Have The Most Louisiana Day Ever When You Kayak Through The Atchafalaya River Basin

You'll Have The Most Louisiana Day Ever When You Kayak Through The Atchafalaya River Basin
On land or in the water, the refuge is home to many animals including white-tailed deer, skunks, coyotes, and gators.
Anirudh girey/Google
The boardwalk trail over the lake has one of the best overlooks in the state.
Anirudh Girey/Google
And if you can catch it at sunset, it's even better!
Green Wolf/All Trails
Being able to catch a scene like this at sunset is just pure perfection!
Wanderer/Google

Be sure to check their website before your visit, just to make sure all trails and the visitors center are open. You can also follow them on Facebook to stay updated. They’re always making repairs to the trails and the surrounding areas, and sometimes trails can close due to flooding or wildlife protection. Have you ever visited Black Bayou National Wildlife Refuge? Let us know in the comments below!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Louisiana

Featured Addresses
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 480 Richland Pl, Monroe, LA 71203, USA