Take This Unforgettable Road Trip To 6 Of Louisiana’s Least-Visited State Parks
By Jackie Ann|Published April 14, 2022
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Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
Did you know there are 21 state parks in the Pelican State? State parks are a wonderful option when you need a little outdoor adventure in your life, and you’ve got plenty to choose from. These six state parks in Louisiana are some of the most underrated in the state, and we’ve got a fun little road trip that’ll take you straight to their gates.
To keep the road trip drivable for a long weekend, we’ve focused on the state parks in the northern part of the state. These beautiful state parks have such a unique beauty that’s unlike the sandy beaches you’d find at Grand Isle State Park or the endless cypress trees in the swamps of Chicot State Park. Don’t worry, you’ll see cypress trees and beaches on this road trip. Ready? Let’s go!
This road trip kicks off with one of our favorite state parks, Lake Claiborne State Park. The park itself is about 650 acres and the lake it's named after clocks in at 6,400 acres. It’s great for waterskiing, fishing, boating around, or taking a refreshing swim. If you decide to pitch a tent for the night, you can't beat that view!
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2. Lake Bistineau State Park
Lake Bistineau State Park, 103 State Park Rd, Doyline, LA 71023, USA
With over 10 miles of hiking trails and an 11-mile canoe trail, Lake Bistineau State Park is full of exciting adventures. There’s even a six-mile equestrian trail if you and your gentle giant are looking for a new trail to tackle together.
Our next stop brings us to Morehouse Parish, home to the scenic Chemin-A-Haut State Park. Nestled around Bayou Bartholomew, this unique park is mostly situated on a high bluff overlooking the water, a slightly different landscape than you’ll find in the southern part of the state.
4. Poverty Point Reservoir State Park
Poverty Point Reservoir State Park, 1500 Poverty Point Pkwy, Delhi, LA 71232, USA
Take your pick: water sports, swimming, hiking… you can do it all here at Poverty Point Reservoir State Park. The 2,700-acre man-made reservoir is also a great spot to do a little fishing for largemouth bass and channel catfish. While you're in the area, you may want to check out the Poverty Point World Heritage Site, one of the most fascinating historical sites in the world.
5. Lake Bruin State Park
Lake Bruin State Park, 201 State Park Rd, St Joseph, LA 71366, USA
Next up: the tiny but mighty Lake Bruin State Park. At 53 acres, Louisiana's smallest state park is one of the least-visited, but don't let the size fool deter you. The lake is a great spot to cool off on a hot day, and the nearby grills are perfect for cooking up whatever you catch in the lake.
6. Jimmie Davis State Park
Jimmie Davis State Park, 1209 State Park Rd, Chatham, LA 71226, USA
Right on the shores of Caney Lake, Jimmie Davis State Park is a boater’s paradise. While it's ideal for waterskiing, anglers will also love doing a little freshwater fishing along the shores of the beautiful mixed pine and hardwood forest. Some of the biggest bass in the state have been caught in these waters!
If you're a beach bum, then we've saved the best for last! There's a beach along the shores of the lake, and it's the perfect way to end the road trip. Pull up a spot on the sand and enjoy the view!
Have you ever visited any of these state parks? Plan on taking this road trip this year? Let us know in the comments!
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