Lakes in Louisiana

Located just an hour from Shreveport, Caddo Lake straddles the border of Texas and Louisiana and boasts the world’s largest Cypress forest.

The Louisiana side features livelier boat traffic and deeper waters—reaching depths of up to 20 feet. In contrast, the Texas side is more tranquil, with shallow areas under five feet deep.

Discover towering Cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, narrow winding waterways, hidden canals, and lush green islands—perfect for exploring by kayak or flat-bottomed boat.

Caddo Lake is home to over 71 species of fish, drawing anglers in pursuit of trophy largemouth bass, catfish, white bass, and more.

Highlights:

• World’s largest Cypress forest
• Deep and shallow water zones for diverse exploration
• Ideal for kayaking and flat-bottomed boating
• Abundant fishing opportunities
• Scenic canals and hidden islands

Near Shreveport, LA and Uncertain, TX
More about Caddo Lake

Lake Pontchartrain is a vast 630-square-mile estuary in southeastern Louisiana, averaging 12 feet deep with navigable shipping channels that are continually dredged for safe passage.

Formed 2,600 to 4,000 years ago from Mississippi River Delta deposits, the lake connects to the Gulf of Mexico via the Rigolets strait and Chef Menteur Pass.

It’s one of the largest wetlands on the Gulf Coast, covering more than 125,000 acres of cypress swamps, bottomland hardwoods, and marshes teeming with wildlife.

Once a retreat for wealthy New Orleanians, the lakefront now attracts artists and professionals drawn to Victorian mansions and stunning water views.

The 24-mile-long causeway across the lake leads travelers from New Orleans to peaceful woodland trails, wetlands, and the charming communities along the north shore.

Highlights:

• 24-mile Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
• 125,000+ acres of preserved wetlands
• Scenic trails through forests and marshlands
• Quaint B&Bs and luxury lodging on the north shore
• Eclectic restaurants, galleries, and waterfront views

Southeastern Louisiana
More about Lake Pontchartrain

Just outside Breaux Bridge in St. Martin Parish, Lake Martin is one of Louisiana’s major swamplands and a designated wildlife preserve.

Part of the Cypress Island Nature Preserve and managed by The Nature Conservancy, Lake Martin is home to a vast rookery for shore birds and migratory songbirds, along with thriving populations of alligators, bullfrogs, and nutrias.

Explore scenic hiking and biking trails that wind through cypress swamps, or glide through tranquil waters by canoe or kayak for up-close views of egrets, herons, and ibis.

The preserve features a wooden boardwalk over the swamp’s southern edge and a visitor center dedicated to education and conservation.

For those seeking quiet wildlife observation, Rookery Road provides a front-row view of alligators and nesting birds along the lake’s edge.

Highlights:

• Protected rookery for nesting birds
• Alligator and wildlife viewing from Rookery Road
• Boardwalk through cypress swamps
• Hiking and biking trails
• Canoe and kayak access

Near Breaux Bridge, Louisiana
More about Lake Martin

Romantic Lakes

Cross Lake is an 8,575-acre freshwater reservoir near Shreveport in Northwest Louisiana that provides the city’s primary water supply.

Created in 1926 with the construction of the Cross Lake Dam, the lake features a mix of ancient cypress forests, wetlands, and residential development.

Known for exceptional bass fishing, Cross Lake hosts both local and national tournaments. Anglers follow a slot limit requiring release of bass between 14 and 17 inches.

The lake is also home to catfish, bluegill, white perch, and red ear sunfish. Fishing is restricted within 100 feet of boat docks.

Boating and swimming are permitted, though caution is advised due to the presence of alligators. The lake is adjacent to popular recreational spots like Ford Park and Richard Fleming Park.

Highlights:

• 8,575-acre freshwater lake supplying Shreveport
• Top-tier bass fishing with tournament events
• Boating and swimming access
• Ancient cypress trees and wetland habitats
• Near Ford Park and Richard Fleming Park

Near Shreveport, Louisiana
More about Cross Lake

Just 35 miles from Baton Rouge near New Roads, the False River is a 3,200-acre oxbow lake formed by the Mississippi River in the early 1700s.

With an average depth of 21 feet and a maximum depth of 65 feet, the lake is popular for angling, hunting, water sports, and lakeside relaxation. Its shoreline is heavily developed with camps, homes, and local businesses.

Despite challenges such as sedimentation, fish diseases, and invasive vegetation, False River remains a valued recreation site. Ongoing efforts focus on improving water quality and managing the health of its diverse fish population.

Whether for a weekend escape or a fishing trip, False River offers a balance of natural beauty and community charm along its scenic waters.

Highlights:

• 3,200-acre oxbow lake near Baton Rouge
• Popular for fishing, hunting, and water sports
• Average depth of 21 feet; max depth of 65 feet
• Active environmental and water quality restoration
• Lakefront homes, camps, and businesses

Near New Roads, Louisiana
More about False River

Henderson Lake, near Rocky Branch and Loch Lomond, serves as a scenic gateway to the Atchafalaya Basin, blending open water with lush cypress swamps.

The lake is a haven for birdwatchers and paddlers, home to more than 300 species of diving waterfowl and birds. You’ll pass houseboats and cozy cottages on one side and towering ancient cypress trees on the other.

While paddling, spot large flocks of cormorants and osprey nests perched high in moss-draped cypress branches. The bright green Spanish moss adds a magical touch to the serene setting.

A convenient paved launch site, graveled parking area, and the nearby Pat’s Restaurant make Henderson Lake an ideal starting point for a day of exploration.

Highlights:

• Gateway to the Atchafalaya Basin
• Over 300 species of birds and waterfowl
• Excellent for kayaking and canoeing
• Ancient cypress swamps with Spanish moss
• Paved launch, ample parking, and nearby dining

Near Rocky Branch and Loch Lomond, Louisiana
More about Henderson Lake

Family-Friendly Lakes

Just 25 miles from New Orleans, Lac des Allemands is a natural 12,000-acre lake fed by numerous bayous in the Barataria Basin, including Bayou Chevreuil and Grand Bayou.

The lake is shallow—averaging only five feet deep, with a max depth of 10 feet—and spans 5.5 miles long by 6.5 miles wide. It's interconnected with canals, drainage paths, and navigation channels like the Barataria Waterway and Intracoastal Waterway.

Known as the Catfish Capital of the World, Lac des Allemands is ideal for anglers thanks to its mix of bayous, cypress swamps, and fallen trees. Numerous fishing camps dot the shoreline.

Beyond fishing, its cypress-lined waterways are home to raccoons, otters, frogs, egrets, herons, bald eagles, and even alligators, offering rich biodiversity in every direction.

Highlights:

• 12,000-acre natural lake in the Barataria Basin
• Catfish Capital of the World
• Interconnected with bayous and water channels
• Popular for fishing and wildlife viewing
• Home to herons, bald eagles, otters, and more

About 25 miles from New Orleans, Louisiana
More about Lac des Allemands

Lake Bistineau is a 15,550-acre narrow reservoir in northwestern Louisiana, connected to the Red River and ultimately the Mississippi River.

Originally formed in 1800 by a massive Red River log jam, the lake later drained when the jam was cleared—only to be reborn with the construction of a permanent dam across Loggy Bayou. It’s also known as the inspiration for abstract impressionist Clyde Connell, who once lived on its shores.

With an average depth of seven feet, the lake sometimes faces ecological challenges from giant salvinia ferns, an invasive species that can choke its waterways.

Established in 1938, Lake Bistineau State Park offers boating, fishing, hiking, and biking, along with two boat launches, playgrounds, and camping cabins for overnight stays.

Highlights:

• 15,550-acre reservoir with historic origins
• Home of artist Clyde Connell
• State park with outdoor recreation since 1938
• Boating, hiking, and biking trails
• Camping cabins, boat launches, and playgrounds

Northwestern Louisiana
More about Lake Bistineau