Outdoors & Recreation in Southwest Louisiana

There are many different ways to experience the sights and sounds of Southwest Louisiana. From kayaks to bikes to pontoons, check through the list below to see which is right for you. While you're at it, don't forget to experience the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. See alligators and numerous bird species, walk along beaches and boardwalks and experience the natural splendor of Louisiana's coastal marshlands.

Lake Charles offers glistening waters filled with fish, from freshwater to saltwater, and productive hunting grounds for waterfowl. Birding is top-notch, with Southwest Louisiana located along both the Mississippi and Central Flyways, spotting new species is always in the cards. Fishing is a year-round affair with bass, crappie, redfish, catfish, and speckled trout - perfect for any Cajun dish! Crabbing is a local pastime, and anyone can join in the fun.

You will also want to check out Sam Houston Jones State Park or stroll out onto the Wetland Walkway at the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge for an up-close view of alligators and the majesty of the marsh. Stroll, birdwatch, picnic or shell at Holly Beach or Rutherford Beach, part of 26 miles of natural Gulf of Mexico beaches.

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5 Unforgettable Spots to Chase the Sunset in Louisiana's Playground

Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana boast some of the most stunning sunsets you'll ever see. With fiery oranges, pinks, and purples…

3 min read

Alligators in Southwest Louisiana

The American alligator lives mainly in freshwater swamps, lakes, and bayous in the southeastern United States. Along the Creole Nature Trail…

3 min read

Tunes for the Trail: Louisiana Spotify Playlists

When you think of Louisiana, vibrant sounds of music come to mind—an eclectic mix…

Golf

Golfing is a year-round attraction in Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana. With 6 public courses, there is variety in the…

Crabbing

Everything you need to know about how to catch Blue Crab, where to go crabbing, what supplies you need, and more along…

Fishing

Freshwater fishing, brackish or saltwater fishing, pier fishing, and surf-fishing on the beaches, if you have a boat or…

Parks

Do you want to get outside to enjoy the fresh air? Maybe you need a place for the kids to run around? Maybe you just…

Beaches

The promenade and marina along the shores of Lake Charles boast sweeping views of the lake. 

Hunting

The Creole Nature Trail habitat — known as Louisiana's Outback — ranks as one of the top waterfowl…

Birding

The Creole Nature Trail is annually home to more than 400 bird species, making it one of the Top 10 Birding/Birdwatch…

Get Outdoors

2 min read

Bike Riding in Lake Charles

Biking is an exhilarating way to connect with nature in Louisiana’s Playground – or have a more immersive experience in the city or enjoy a clear…

Upcoming Events

Teen Programs at the Library Nov 12

Teen Programs at the Library

  • Recurring daily

Central Library, 301 W. Claude St., 721-7116 Young Adult Creative Writing : 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 13. Do you love writing…

BellyFlow Belly Dance Classes Nov 14

BellyFlow Belly Dance Classes

  • Recurring weekly on Thursday, Saturday

Unleash your inner dancer and get fit with Belly Dance Fitness led by Jennifer McHaffie at Phoenix Dance Loft! No prior experience…