7 Incredible Natural Landscapes That Are Just A Short Drive From New Orleans

Known for its world-class fishing and incredible birdwatching opportunities, Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island offers beautiful stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico, miles of beaches, and countless wildlife viewing opportunities.

Head over to St. Martin Parish to check out Lake Martin, which is part of the Cypress Island Nature Preserve. You can hike the nature trails, take a drive on Rookery Road, or bring a kayak or canoe and paddle around to see gorgeous cypress trees and abundant wildlife.

For an up close and personal walk through Louisiana’s swamps, marshes, and bayous, you should drive over to Barataria Preserve. The boardwalk trails through the waterways offer visitors views of the landscape that you just wouldn’t be able to see any other way.

Honey Island Swamp is located in St. Tammany Parish, and is considered to be one of the most pristine swampland habitats in the country. Outside of the usual suspects you’d find in the swamp, including alligators, nutria, turtles, wild boats, snakes and bald eagles, the Honey Island Swamp is also home to the legendary Honey Island Swamp Monster. This rougarou-type creature was first seen by Harlan Ford in 1963, who spent years trying to prove its existence. There are several swamp tour companies that would be glad to show you the beauty of the swamp and who knows, maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of the swamp monster.

Formed in 1994, the refuge is composed of 15,000 acres of pine flatwoods and coastal marsh. There are two miles of walkways and trails that wind along the scenic Bayou Lacombe.

This 185 acre park in St. Mary Parish offers a 1/2 mile beach, 6 rental cabins, a sailboat launch, and the opportunity to fish from a 100 foot fishing pier. Not to mention some of the most sensational sunsets you’ve ever seen. Located at 306 Beach Lane Cypremort Point, LA 70538.

Head across the causeway to visit this beautiful 2,800 acre park and take advantage of their nature trails. Not only will you find an abundance of grassy areas to relax on, but their trails will lead you to wide open overlooks where the views are simply jaw dropping.