We know what you’re thinking. Louisiana waterfalls? That just doesn’t seem right. And you’re right, Louisiana is known for beautiful bayous and swamps, not towering cascades. But if you want to go waterfall chasing in Louisiana, our fine state does have a few waterfalls….three to be precise. Luckily, they’re all located in the same spot, so you can check off these three waterfalls in Louisiana in one day.

To see these waterfalls, you’ll want to head over to the J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area in Catahoula Parish.
Justin P./Google
This 7,524-acre WMA is full of hiking trails that’ll have you scrambling! Don’t worry, these steep inclines won’t have you reaching a high altitude... but for Louisiana, it’s impressive!
There are three waterfalls here: Rock Falls, St. Mary’s Falls, and Sandy Bayou Waterfall.
Kristopher Guidry/All Trails
The tallest of the three is Rock Falls, which cascades 17 feet and currently stands as the tallest waterfall in Louisiana. St. Mary’s Falls is right around 10 feet, and bringing up the rear is the Sandy Bayou Waterfall clocking in at a tiny but mighty five feet.
The longest of the trails within the WMA is about seven miles, but both the Rock Falls Trail and St. Mary’s Falls Trail measure around one mile, so they’re perfect for an afternoon adventure.
Justin P./All Trails
Plus, since the area has several rivers and streams running through it, you may be blessed with tiny cascades like this one.

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Here's the Sandy Bayou Waterfall.
Justin P./Google
Even at just five feet, you'll be amazed. Once you see this one in person, just wait 'til you see the others!
St. Mary's Falls is double the cascade, double the fun.
Justin P./Google
It's helpful to time your hike after a rainfall. Yes, you may be hiking through some mud, but the trade-off is getting to see more powerful waterfalls.
You can even walk behind this one!
Kenya Fowler/Google
Make sure you're wearing proper shoes here, as the area can be slippery!
And finally, Rock Falls.
Liz Lowry/All Trails
Standing at 17 feet, it's the tallest waterfall in Louisiana, and as you can see, it's certainly not your average Louisiana landscape!

Grab a map of the J.C. “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area from the website and start making plans to check these waterfalls off your bucket list. For more adventures, check out the labyrinth of hiking trails within the Kistatchie National Forest. Or go on this natural wonders in Louisiana road trip; just be sure to take a look at our detailed road trip packing list first to make sure you don’t forget any of the essentials!

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More to Explore

Natural Beauty In Louisiana

Sara Dager | December 01, 2023

What are some of the best hikes in Louisiana to go on? 

If you want to truly see all that the Bayou State has to offer, taking hikes in Louisiana is the absolute best way to do just that. Check out some of the most beautiful trails in the state:

  • Bogue Chitto State Park Gorge Run Trail in Franklinton is a 5.2-mile moderate trail.
  • Driskill Mountain Trail in Bienville is a 1.8-mile easy trail.
  • Restoration Park Trail in West Monroe is a 1.5-mile easy trail.
  • Comite Park Trail in Baton Rouge is a 5.1-mile moderate trail.
  • Backbone Trail in Cloutierville is a 14.7-mile moderate trail.

Are there any natural pools in Louisiana that I can go swimming in? 

We get it; chlorine isn't everyone's bag! Luckily there are a lot of gorgeous natural pools in Louisiana where you can get your laps in in clear natural waters:

  • Vermilion Bay in Cypremort Point
  • Lake End Park in Morgan City
  • Caney Lake in Chatham
  • Bogue Chitto River in Bogue Chitto State Park
  • Silver Creek in Mt. Hermon
  • Lake Bruin in Tensas Parish
  • Lake Claiborne in Homer
  • Lake Pontchartrain in Fontainebleau State Park

Can I find any natural wonders in Louisiana to visit? 

There is so much natural beauty just waiting to be found in the Bayou State! Take a look at some of the stunning natural wonders in Louisiana that you can visit:

  • Toledo Bend
  • Breton Wildlife Refuge
  • Seven Sisters Oak
  • Chicot Lake
  • Atchafalaya River Basin
  • Avery Island

 

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