Small Town Gems in Southwest Louisiana

Set sail on a road trip through the small towns of Southwest Louisiana! Along the way, discover the natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere just off the beaten path. From iconic photo backdrops to historic sites, these hidden treasures are ready to be explored, just beyond Lake Charles.

Start: Vinton

Start your adventure with a visit to the historic Niblett's Bluff Park located in Vinton. Filled with history, Fort Niblett was established at this site during the Civil War. During the Reconstruction Era, this location was later developed into a lumber camp including a railroad tram, general store, church, and a hotel.

Remnants of those historical sites remain as preservation efforts continue along with updates including picnics tables, a covered pavilion for special events, and 50 shaded RV sites for overnight stays.

↕16 min (12.4 miles/19.84 kilometers)

Starks

Make your way north to Starks for some delicious Mayhaw jelly. Vendors from all around sell locally made jelly and jam from the Mayhaw fruit. While they can vary in taste, the flavor is usually described as a blend of fruity and tart. Starks' Alligator Park is a peaceful hideaway perfect for an outdoor adventure. The picturesque bridge in the heart of the park is perfect for fishing and photoshoots.

↕20 Min (16.9 miles/27.04 kilometers)

DeQuincy

Next head northeast to DeQuincy. Rich in railroad history, this small town transports visitors to the days of old. The DeQuincy Railroad Museum, a must-visit attraction, is a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Inside visitors can explore model trains and a collection of vintage railroad memorabilia. The adventures continue on museum grounds where guests can venture through a steam engine, passenger car and caboose or play on the playground.

Nearby Restaurant: Stop by Coconuts Cajun Grill for a variety of Cajun comfort foods including shrimp, étouffée, and po’boys.

↕23 Min (18 miles/28.8 kilometers)

Sulphur

Hop off your train ride, then head south for a visit to Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point in Sulphur. There, you’ll meet adventure guides with helpful insights to popular Southwest Louisiana past-times like birding, crabbing, hunting, and fishing in Southwest Louisiana. While onsite guests can practice crabbing, play in a Cajun band, captain a shrimp boat, and shop for souvenirs.

Extend your adventure and embark on the Creole Nature Trail-All American Road, a 180-mile trail showcasing Southwest Louisiana’s marshes, prairies, and shores teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.

Nearby Restaurant: Stop by Hollier’s Cajun Kitchen for an authentic Cajun meal!

↕ 13 minutes (8 miles/12.8 kilometers)

Moss Bluff

Sam Houston Jones State Park is a prime location for hiking, biking, kayaking, boating, and camping. The only state park in Southwest Louisiana spans over 1,000 acres including 70 acres of longleaf pines, the oldest living southern pine species. With over 200 species of birds to be seen at or within 30 miles of the park, it’s a premier birding destination.

Additional amenities include fully furnished cabins and RV sites for overnight stays, all-terrain track wheelchairs increasing accessibility for more difficult trails, a covered pavilion, and playground.

Nearby Restaurant: In-Laws Cajun Specialties serves delicacies like boudin and cracklins, great for a picnic in the park.

↕ 19 minutes (17 miles/27.2 kilometers)

Iowa

The original site of the Iowa Rabbit Festival, this small town is known for its strong sense of community. Iowa, pronounced eye-oh-way, enacted the festival to promote a local rabbit processing plant and the growing rabbit industry. Today it’s one of Southwest Louisiana’s most popular events and is held annually at the Burton Complex.

While in town, unwind at the Lawrence Toups Jr. Memorial Park, the original festival site and visit nearby restaurants like In-Laws Cajun Specialties and Rabideaux’s Sausage Kitchen, where you’ll find mouthwatering delicacies like boudin and cracklin', as well as locally sourced meats including deer sausage.

Plan Your Visit

Whether indulging in authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine or exploring our pristine parks and waterways, these small-town gems are great additions to your Lake Charles adventure. For more trip inspiration, dining recommendations, and things to do be sure to download or request your copy of our latest inspiration guide or tune into the latest episode of Louisiana's Playground Podcast.