There’s just something about finding a natural swimming hole that takes your summer from good to great, and with Louisiana’s endless amount of rivers, lakes, and bayous, you can bet that there are plenty of swimming holes in Louisiana to splash around in. While you do need to be careful when you go swimming in Louisiana’s waterways (remember, alligators are found in just about every body of water in Louisiana), there’s one little swimming hole tucked away in the forest that’s so perfect, that you’ll never want to leave.

The J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area is 7,500-acre natural oasis that any outdoor explorer would love.
Justin P./All Trails
It was established in 1980 and was formally called the Sicily Island Hills Wildlife Management Area and is a popular hunting, trapping, and fishing area for northern Louisianians.
There are multiple trails within the WMA, and each one will show you the raw, rugged landscape of this hidden gem.
Kim Cox/All Trails
Louisiana is known for being relatively flat, but that’s not the case here. The terrain can get pretty rugged, with high ridges and steep drop-offs.
As you make your way along the trails, you’ll be shaded by the canopies of towering loblolly-shortleaf pines and upland hardwoods.
Sophie Webber/All Trails
You might even find you have the trails to yourself!
There are four different waterways that flow through the WMA.
Justin P./Google
The largest of them, Big Creek, is your best bet for taking a dip after a long hike.
Justin P./Google

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You might even stumble into a little waterfall!
Justin P./Google
These swimming pools aren't deep, but they're perfect for a refreshing splash.
Justin P./All Trails
Speaking of waterfalls, this particular WMA is home to not one but three different waterfalls: Sandy Bayou Waterfall, St. Mary's Falls, and Rock Falls.
Kristopher Guidry/All Trails
If you can time your visit after a rainfall, you'll see them in their full cascading capacity.
Justin P./Google
Jump in and stand underneath the fall!
KC Temple/All Trails
It's not every day that you get to take a waterfall shower in Louisiana. It's no wonder why locals want to keep this hidden gem a secret!

For more information, visit the Louisiana Wildlife & Fisheries website.

 

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J.C. "Sonny" Gilbert Wildlife Management Area, Sicily Island, LA 71368, USA