Calcasieu Lake is a 49,156 acres lake located about 17 miles from Lake Charles in Cameron parish, which is situated in southwest Louisiana.

This brackish lake, also called Big Lake, opens to the Gulf of Mexico, explaining the water’s salinity.

The salinity of the lake water also accounts for the large amount of fish, inviting anglers to search for record redfish, speckled trout and flounder. Many fishermen go home with seven-pound speckled trout all over the estuary.

In 2007, the local fishing guide saw an albino bottlenose dolphin, which was named Pinky because of its pale skin color. There are a number of boat and fishing charters organizing fishing and nature observation tours.

Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Read the reviews, then call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).

Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.