There are 21 state parks in Louisiana, and each one of them is worthy of a day trip or a weekend adventure. Of course, some state parks are more popular than others, but that doesn’t mean that the lesser-known parks are any less picturesque. If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a little peace and quiet, then Fairview-Riverside State Park is right up your alley.

Clocking in at 98 acres, Fairview-Riverside State Park is certainly one of Louisiana's smaller state parks, but it's actually not the smallest!
Phil O/Google
That honor goes to Lake Bruin State Park, a 53-acre state park over in Tensas Parish.
When you first arrive, you'll come across a massive house that will have you second-guessing if you've accidentally stumbled into private property.
The Dirty Hungry Hoe/Google
Just one of the many surprises waiting for you when you visit this Louisiana state park.
This is the Otis House.
Danny the camper/Google
The house was built in 1885 by William Theodore Jay who owned a sawmill nearby. New Orleanian Frank Otis purchased the property in 1936 and it became his summer home until he passed away in 1962.

Tours of the Otis House Museum are offered Wednesday through Sunday, and admission is $4 per adult. Kids 12 and under are free, and so are seniors 62+

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Before he passed away, Otis left both the house and the land to the state requesting that it be used for public recreation, and thanks to him, we now have this beautiful state park.
Don March/Google
Nestled along the Tchefuncte River, it's a serene little park that's perfect for escaping the crowds and enjoying the scenery.
There are walking paths along the riverbank that are kid-friendly and ADA-accessible.
Jessica Hickman/Google
Louisiana Tours & Adventures offers boat tours on the river, check them out! Pack a lunch and enjoy an afternoon cruising down the river for a uniquely Louisianan adventure.
As you wander around the park, you'll catch little glimpses of the property's past.
Thomas Smith/Google
So even if you don't go inside the house, you'll still be able to see little glimpses here and there.
If you can, stick around until sunset. That's when Fairview-Riverside State Park really shines.
Tabitha Ungvarsky/Google Reviews
There's nothing like a waterfront sunset, and this underrated state park in Louisiana has one of the best!

While there are no cabins available to rent at this state park, there are campsites for both RVs and primitive tent camping. Visit the Louisiana State Park website for more information. While you’re in the area, grab a seat at Morton’s, a waterfront restaurant just down the road from Fairview-Riverside State Park. Many will tell you they’ve got the best oysters in Louisiana! Personally, I’m a huge fan of Morton’s gumbo, but the seafood bisque is a close second in my book.

Fairview-Riverside State Park is not far from another beloved state park, Fontainebleau State Park. Here you’ll have a little more room (2,800 acres) to explore, and even a beautiful beach to enjoy. For more adventures, check out some of our favorite state parks in Louisiana. 

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More to Explore

State Parks In Louisiana

Jackie Ann | November 17, 2023

What is the largest state park in Louisiana?

  • Chicot State Park is the largest state park in Louisiana. Located in Ville Platte in central Louisiana, the park boasts over 6,000 acres to explore, including the Louisiana State Arboretum. There’s an extensive 26-mile hiking trail that encircles the 2,000-acre lake, which is perfect for explorers. On the water, Lake Chicot is a favorite spot for fishermen, and there’s also an 8-mile paddle trail, too. Bring your own kayak or rent a canoe from the park to explore Chicot State Park from an entirely new perspective.

Read on to learn more about Louisiana’s most scenic state parks. 

What are some of the best hiking trails in Louisiana?

Some of the best hiking trails in Louisiana include:

  • Tammany Trace: A converted rail trail that weaved through five towns in St. Tammany Parish. The 30+ mile long trail is the longest paved trail in Louisiana and has trailheads at each town where visitors can stop and rest, or even do a little shopping. 
  • For primitive trails, the trails you’ll find within the Kisatchie National Forest are extraordinary. These rugged trails will take you through some of Louisiana’s most underestimated terrain, with the option of pulling off the trail and pitching a tent if you’d like.

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Featured Addresses
Fairview-Riverside State Park, 119 Fairview Dr, Madisonville, LA 70447, USA