Top 15 Stunning Lakes to Explore in Louisiana

The state of Louisiana is not only abundant in culture and heritage, but also in diverse terrains. Renowned for its deltas, swamps, and marshes, alongside longleaf pine forests and wet savannahs, it is evident why Louisiana has earned the moniker of the Bayou State.

With Driskill Mountain situated in the northeastern region, the Kisatchie National Forest centrally located, and the Gulf of Mexico marking its southern border, Louisiana is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including numerous lakes, both natural and artificial, dispersed throughout the state.

This article will highlight the finest lakes in Louisiana:

1. Caddo Lake, Caddo Parish

This exquisite lake and bayou are located in the northwestern corner of the state, shared with Texas. Covering an area of 10,200 hectares, it hosts the world’s largest Cypress forest, enhancing its natural allure.

Named after the Caddo tribe, which historically inhabited the region, local legend suggests that the lake was formed by the New Madrid earthquakes that occurred in 1811-1812.

Currently, Caddo Lake is recognized as an internationally protected wetland, serving as a habitat for owls, eagles, waterfowl, snakes, and alligators. Additionally, it hosts over 70 species of fish, making it a favored destination for anglers.

2. Toledo Bend Reservoir, Sabine and DeSoto Parishes

Positioned along the Sabine River between Louisiana and Texas, the Toledo Bend Reservoir is the largest artificial lake in the southern United States. Spanning 75,000 hectares, it features the Toledo Bend Dam, and both South and North Toledo Bend State Parks.

The reservoir boasts an extensive 1,900 kilometers of shoreline, rendering it a popular location for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and boating. Furthermore, its state parks provide opportunities for hiking and camping.

South Toledo Bend State Park is equipped with a two-kilometer hiking trail, 19 shorefront cabins, and 60 camping sites, while North Toledo Bend State Park offers 10 cabins and 67 campsites, along with an Olympic-size swimming pool.

3. Calcasieu Lake, Cameron Parish

Calcasieu Lake, situated in southwestern Louisiana, drains into the Gulf of Mexico. This 19,900-hectare brackish lake is celebrated among anglers for its plentiful red drum and spotted sea trout.

Additionally, flounder, brown shrimp, and white shrimp are readily available. For those without personal watercraft, boat charters and fishing tours are easily accessible.

Visitors to Calcasieu Lake may also have the chance to encounter Pinky, an albino bottlenose dolphin first sighted by locals in 2007.

4. Lake Pontchartrain, Multiple Parishes

Covering six distinct parishes, Lake Pontchartrain is located on the northern edge of New Orleans. Historically, it was a favored retreat for affluent New Orleanians.

Currently, the New Orleans section of the lake is home to artists and young professionals, while the north shore features upscale accommodations and renowned restaurants.

This 163,000-hectare lake is an estuary connected to the Gulf of Mexico, with an average depth of 3.7 to 4.3 meters, making it one of the largest wetlands along the North American Gulf Coast.

The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, extending across the water, connects the New Orleans suburb of Metairie to Mandeville, recognized as the longest bridge over water globally.

5. Cross Lake, Caddo Parish

This 3,500-hectare lake, situated west of Shreveport, serves as the city’s primary water supply. Portions of the reservoir are enveloped by ancient cypress trees, enhancing its aesthetic charm.

Cross Lake is particularly popular among bass anglers, although bluegill, catfish, and white perch are also present. The lake is suitable for swimming as well.

Nature enthusiasts frequent this location to observe waterfowl, alligators, and other wildlife, although the southeastern part of the lake has experienced considerable development.

6. Lake D’Arbonne, Union Parish

Lake D’Arbonne, a 6,200-hectare reservoir, is located in a serene rural area near Farmerville. Created in 1963, it is now a favored destination for fishing.

Lake D’Arbonne State Park lies on the northwest side of the lake, just south of State Highway 2, offering a network of hiking and cycling trails, along with 16 cabins and 58 campsites.

Visitors appreciate this tranquil lake for its peaceful environment and abundant wildlife. In addition to fishing, many individuals are drawn here for canoeing activities.

7. False River, Pointe Coupee Parish

False River is a U-shaped lake situated just west of the Mississippi River and northwest of Baton Rouge. This 17-kilometer lake was formed in the 1700s, and its shoreline is significantly developed today.

Residential areas, businesses, and camps dot the landscape, providing ample accommodations, dining establishments, and retail shops. It is a favored recreational area, attracting visitors for water skiing, sailing, and boating activities.

As a trophy lake, certain sizes of fish must be returned to the water, and it also serves as a popular location for duck hunting.

8. Lake Claiborne, Claiborne Parish

Lake Claiborne was established by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers through the construction of the Claiborne Lock and Dam. Presently, this 2,600-hectare lake is recognized for its exceptional recreational opportunities.

Lake Claiborne State Park is located at the south end of the lake, equipped with a variety of facilities. The park includes 10 cabins and 89 campsites, serving as an excellent site for swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and mountain biking.

Commonly regarded as one of the most scenic lakes in the state, it features a wealth of birds, picturesque beaches, and natural environments. It is stocked with a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill.

9. Lac des Allemands, Multiple Parishes

Lac des Allemands, translating to “Lake of the Germans,” is named after the German settlers who once inhabited this region, referred to as the German Coast in Louisiana.

This shallow lake is fed by bayous within the Barataria Basin and is encircled by cypress swamps and bayous, creating a visually striking natural environment.

Recognized as the Catfish Capital of the World, Lac des Allemands hosts the annual Louisiana Catfish Festival, and is home to diverse fish species, alongside otters, egrets, alligators, frogs, and great blue herons.

10. Lake Bruin, Tensas Parish

This 1,200-hectare oxbow lake is celebrated for its remarkably clear waters, making it an ideal location for swimming, while many visitors are also drawn for boating and fishing.

Lake Bruin is named after Peter Bryan Bruin, a local plantation owner. Currently, most of the surrounding land is privately held, with the exception of the state-owned Lake Bruin State Park.

The park is populated with cypress trees and provides public access to the lake, featuring three fishing piers, a boat launch, picnic tables, and 25 campsites.

11. Lake Maurepas, Multiple Parishes

Named after Jean-Frédéric Phélypeaux, Count of Maurepas, Lake Maurepas is a round, shallow body of water positioned to the west of Lake Pontchartrain.

Spanning 24,000 hectares, it is the second-largest lake in Louisiana, receiving inflow from the Amite, Blind, Tickfaw, and Natalbany Rivers.

Notably, the area surrounding the lake is largely undeveloped, imparting a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere. The only development visible from the lake is the overhead bridge of Interstate 55 along its eastern edge.

12. Prien Lake, Calcasieu Parish

Located just south of Lake Charles, Prien Lake is connected to the Calcasieu Ship Channel at three distinct points. Currently, the lake serves primarily for recreational pursuits.

With an abundance of croaker, speckled trout, redfish, and flounder, Prien Lake is a favored setting for both commercial and recreational fishing activities. The Lake Charles Country Club is situated at the southern end of the lake.

Featuring two parks, Prien Lake boasts a public boat launch, picnic areas, and parking spaces. Additionally, LaFleur Park includes a beach that offers excellent swimming opportunities.

13. Lake Bistineau, Multiple Parishes

This elongated, narrow lake spans 62,900 hectares across three parishes in northwestern Louisiana. The name “Lake Bistineau” derives from a Caddo word meaning “big broth,” reflecting the rich plant life within the lake.

The lake is recognized as a recreational haven, particularly within Lake Bistineau State Park, located on its west side, which provides access for fishing, boating, cycling, and hiking.

Within the park, numerous accommodations are available, including both hook-up and non-hook-up campsites, creating a beautiful setting for outdoor enthusiasts.

14. Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, St. Martin Parish

Situated in the Atchafalaya Basin, Lake Fausse Pointe State Park encompasses 2,400 hectares of various waterways and a large lake.

The park is abundant in wildlife and features an educational center providing detailed insights into the plants and animals inhabiting the area. Additionally, it offers three hiking/cycling trails of varying lengths and levels.

Numerous canoe trails interweave through the park and its waterways, dotted with canoe campsites, while various campsites, cabins, and motorhome spots are available throughout the park.

15. Lake Martin, St. Martin Parish

Lake Martin serves as a designated wildlife preserve and constitutes one of the state’s significant swamplands. It is inhabited by herons, egrets, ibises, bullfrogs, alligators, and a myriad of other wildlife.

This exceptional ecosystem is precisely why it has been designated as a protected area. Much of the beauty of Lake Martin can be appreciated by hiking or cycling along its numerous trails.

Located just east of Lafayette, this lake is easily reachable by car, yet it is best appreciated through explorations by canoe, kayak, or on foot.