Visit Lake Charles invites the community and visitors to celebrate ten years of adventure at Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point in Sulphur on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Located at 2740 Ruth St., Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point is a free attraction designed to introduce visitors to Louisiana’s great outdoors. This milestone event features a morning filled with engaging activities that highlight the rich natural beauty and unique ecosystems of Southwest Louisiana.

“Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point is often what our Texas visitors experience first when they get to Southwest Louisiana, and it sets the tone for what Louisiana’s Playground is all about,” said Kyle Edmiston, president and CEO of Visit Lake Charles. “For the last decade, it’s welcomed travelers, sparked curiosity, and encouraged visitors to get out and explore this region firsthand.” 

Since opening its doors in 2015, Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point has been an essential gateway to one of Louisiana’s most treasured landscapes, featuring interactive exhibits that bring the wonders of nature to life. The anniversary celebration will feature live alligator encounters, a backyard fishing experience for young anglers, and creative hands-on stations, such as fish print art and a seashell dig. Guests can also participate in a life jacket safety experience, learn to fish, and view an exhibit on the environmental impact of marine debris. 

In addition to these engaging activities, local experts from the Southwest Louisiana Master Naturalists and Master Gardeners will be on-site to share their knowledge about native wildlife, plants, and ecosystems. Attendees will have the opportunity to handle mammal and reptile specimens, get up close to taxidermy fish, and explore the fascinating world of Gulf Coast birding. Gumbeaux Gator, Southwest Louisiana’s beloved mascot, will also make an appearance, ready to greet guests and pose for photos. 

“For the past ten years, Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point has been a place where both locals and visitors can discover the incredible natural beauty of Southwest Louisiana in an interactive and meaningful way,” said Anne Klenke, the vice president of destination development/community engagement at Visit Lake Charles. “This celebration is a tribute to the region’s diverse ecosystems, the importance of conservation, and the joy of outdoor exploration. We are thrilled to welcome the community to join us in marking this special occasion.”

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About Visit Lake Charles
Visit Lake Charles, the official destination marketing organization for Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana, is the only organization in Southwest Louisiana providing advocacy, promotion, and education for the tourism industry. For more information on Visit Lake Charles and things to see and do in Louisiana’s Playground, log on to www.visitlakecharles.org.

About the Creole Nature Trail  
The Creole Nature Trail is one of only 57 national scenic byways designated as an All-American Road in the USA. It encompasses more than 180 miles and four wildlife refuges and is known as “Louisiana’s Outback.” The gateway to the western side of the trail is Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point, 2740 Ruth St. in Sulphur, La. For more information on the Creole Nature Trail, go to www.creolenaturetrail.org.