In a state with endless natural waterways, you wouldn’t think that there would be many man-made lakes in Louisiana, but there are! Of course, the Toledo Bend Reservoir might be the most impressive. After all, it is the largest man-made body of water in the South (and 5th largest in the country). But there’s one special little lake that I’d like to draw attention to today, and it might just become your new favorite spot in the Pelican State. 

For starters, Lake Bruin isn’t technically man-made.
Chris Bolm/Google Reviews
The lake itself is classified as an oxbow lake. The horseshoe-shaped lake was once part of the Mississippi River, but the river changed course about 500 years ago and left this lovely oxbow behind. Because the lake was turned into a fish hatchery almost 100 years ago, it's turned into more of a man-made waterway.
Situated in the shadows of the Mighty Mississippi, right on the Louisiana/Mississippi state border, Lake Bruin was used as a fish hatchery in 1928.
Michael Lin/Google Reviews
Originally, the Debusant family owned the lake and nearby land, and they sold it to the State in the early 1920s. The State operated it as a Department of Wildlife and Fisheries fish hatchery from 1928 until the late 1940s, when the Louisiana Parks Commission took over and paved the way for Lake Bruin State Park to open.
Fishing is the main attraction to this lake, and the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries continues to keep Lake Bruin stocked with bass, bream, white perch, and more.
Lake Bruin State Park/Facebook
Typically, oxbow lakes aren't great for fishing, but Lake Bruin defies the odds. There are three fishing piers peppered around the lake that are accessible from Lake Bruin State Park as well as a year-round boat launch.

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You can also rent a flat-bottom boat for a mere $15/day and explore the 3,000-acre lake on your own. Each rental includes two paddles and three life jackets.
Lake Bruin State Park/Facebook
The lake is also a popular spot for waterskiing in the summer months! While a flat-bottom boat is probably not the best water vessel for high-speed fun, it’s something to keep in mind when the summer rolls around!
You don't have to get on the water to appreciate the lake, either.
Melissa Haig/Google Reviews
There are plenty of opportunities to admire the lake from land, including nature paths, picnic tables, and even waterfront campsites.
The area just so happens to be right along the Mississippi Flyway, and it’s perfect for birdwatching.
Kat Barker Schmidt/Google Reviews
The Mississippi Flyway is basically like a highway in the sky that migratory birds use seasonally to get to warmer climates. This little dude looks like he wants to speak to the manager and it made me laugh!
If you do want to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway, the park offers several campsites and cabins available for rent.
D.R. Honey/Google Reviews
You can also rent an RV through our friends at RVShare and spend a weekend relaxing right on the water.

While you’re in the area, I’d highly recommend paying a visit to Poverty Point. This man-made wonder has baffled historians and archaeologists for years.

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Lake Bruin, LA 71357, USA