Louisiana is full of different waterways that attract tons of outdoor adventurers, so we thought we’d take a look at some of the best lakes in Louisiana that are perfect for a day of fun in the sun. Grab your favorite beach towel and some sunscreen and get ready to make a splash!

1. Valentine Lake
Valentine Lake, Louisiana 71409, USA
Daniel Hebert/All Trails
Nestled in the heart of the Kisatchie National Forest, Valentine Lake is a 46-acre lake that's one of the best lakes in Louisiana for kayaking. Motorized boating is not allowed, but the Valentine Lake Recreation Complex has several campsites along the shoreline of the lake making for a picture perfect, relaxing weekend.
2. Lake Martin
Lake Martin, Louisiana, Louisiana 70517, USA
jc.winkler/Flickr
Part of the Cypress Island Preserve, Lake Martin is a nature lover’s paradise. You can set out on a canoe/kayak and explore the lake at your own pace, or walk along the nature trail. Not only will you see tons of wildlife, including alligators, but Lake Martin also has some spectacular sunsets. If you can time your visit around dusk, you'll be rewarded with a kaleidoscope of color bouncing off the water.
3. Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake Dam, 8571 Crouch Dam Rd, Mooringsport, LA 71060, USA
Gaspard/Flickr
Caddo Lake is one of the more popular lakes in Louisiana, since it's located about an hour outside of Shreveport, it's a great place for those in the city looking to slow down and enjoy a change of scenery. This 25,400-acre lake and bayou sits on the border between Texas and Louisiana and is a popular spot for boating and kayaking. The lake is home to more than 70 species of fish, including catfish, largemouth bass, white bass, and many others.

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4. False River
False River, Louisiana, USA
Wikimedia
This 3,200-acre oxbow lake near New Roads is a wonderful spot for fishing and general water sports. This hidden lake in Louisiana was once the main channel of the Mississippi River in the area, but it was cut off around 1722 when flooding caused a shorter channel to the east.
5. Cane River Lake
Cane River Lake, Louisiana, USA
Wikimedia
Cane River Lake is another oxbow lake, this one formed from a portion of the Red River. Located in Natchitoches Parish, the Cane River Lake runs through the Natchitoches historic district and is probably most well known for its dazzling Christmas light display.
6. Black Lake
Black Lake, Louisiana 70449, USA
Wikimedia
Located in North Louisiana, this reservoir is a wonderful spot for fishermen looking to catch crappie. This beautiful, bald cypress-studded lake actually has two names: west of Highway 9 is called Black Lake, and below the bridge is known as Clear Lake.
7. Lake Claiborne
Lake Claiborne, Louisiana 71040, USA
Lake Claiborne State Park/Facebook
Lake Claiborne is a massive 6,400-acre man-made lake that was formed by damming Bayou D’Arbonne. It’s part of Lake Claiborne State Park, which offers tons of activities like disc golf and hiking trails. The lake is great for boating, fishing, swimming, or just sinking your toes in the sand. This hidden lake in Louisiana also has a stretch of beach so pristine you'll think you've been transported to the tropics!

While you’re out and about, be sure to check out some of our favorite state parks.

What’s your favorite Louisiana lake? Let us know in the comments below!

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best lakes in Louisiana

Jackie Ann | May 25, 2022

What are the most beautiful beaches in Louisiana?

Louisiana isn’t known for having beautiful beaches, but it’s actually one of our most prized hidden gems. There are several hidden lakes in Louisiana that offer beautiful beaches to enjoy, including Jimmie Davis State Park, Grand Isle State Park, and Cypremort Point State Park. For a more traditional beach, try Rutherford Beach, it’s a hidden gem along the coast that’s perfect for finding seashells.

Can I camp right on the water in Louisiana?

You can camp right on the water’s edge at Holly Beach, a lovely beach in southern Louisiana that’s right on the Gulf of Mexico. Here, you can find a patch of sand to pitch a tent and fall asleep to the sounds of the waves crashing on the shores while you gaze up at the stars. Sounds delightful, right? You can also camp right on the beach at Grand Isle State Park, another beach in Louisiana that overlooks the Gulf which also offers nature trails, a 900-foot pier, and some of the best fishing in the country.

Where can I go tubing in Louisiana?

When the weather warms up, you’ve got to find ways to cool down. One of the most popular summertime activities in Louisiana is floating down a river with your loved ones, and the Bogue Chitto River is one of the most popular. There are several tubing companies that you can choose from, and our favorite is Louisiana River Adventures.

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