Finding new ways to beat the heat this summer is a full-time job. I know it’s tempting to kick back and enjoy the comforts of an air-conditioned home, but sometimes you just gotta throw on some SPF 50 and make a splash. Vernon Lake is a bit of a hidden gem as far as Louisiana swimming holes go, and you might find you have the place all to yourself!

Vernon Lake is a man-made lake over in Vernon Parish that was formed in 1963.
Mary Ann Conner/Google Reviews
The lake was created by impounding Anacoco Creek (aka Anacoco Bayou), which created this massive 4,200 acre lake to serve as both a water supply and recreational fun.
J. Nash/Google Reviews
Go ahead and bring some beach chairs and an umbrella, there’s plenty of sandy spots to set up.
Johnny Busch/Google Reviews
Water levels come and go, but right now the water is high and perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day.

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There’s also a boat launch for folks who want to bring their water toys out for a day of fishing.
Victor Antonetti/Google Reviews
I love fishing as much as the next person, but I think it’s also important to know that there have been at least three mercury advisories for fish caught in Vernon Lake. There was one in 1997, another in 2003, and most recently in 2009 where high levels of mercury were reported in large-mouth bass, catfish, and bluegill caught in this lake. The good news is that no advisories have been placed since then!
If you can, stick around until sunset and watch the sun paint a gorgeous picture in the sky.
Chris Clayton/Google Reviews
Sunsets on the water just hit differently.
Tabitha Vasquez/Google Reviews
IYKYK!

For more aquatic adventures, check out some of our favorite swimming holes in Louisiana. If you’re looking for more things to do in the area, how about hiking to a cave in Louisiana? Yep! Wolf Rock Cave is a unique cave in Louisiana with a fascinating history and best of all, the hike is short and sweet.

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Vernon Lake, Louisiana, USA