Lake Fausse Point State Park Camping and Recreational Opportunities

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Lake Fausse Point State Park is located is located in the heart of Louisiana’s cajun country, the southeastern part of the state. The area surrounding this 6,000-acre park was once home to the Chitimacha Indians, but was also occupied by French and Acadian trappers and farmers. In the late 1700’s there was major influx of Canary Islanders and Spaniards, which contributed to the cultural diversity of the area.

The park was part of the Atchafalaya Basin which was a large swamp prior to the 20th century.  The Atchafalaya Basin was enclosed by the Bayou Teche and the Mississippi rivers. Construction of east and west protection levees isolated the former Atchafalaya swampland and that is where the park is today. Lake Fausse Point state park is surrounded by water on three sides.

The park is located at the edge of a beautiful water wilderness so there is plenty of opportunity for fishing, boating and canoeing.  Boats, canoes and kayaks are available for rent by the hour or by the day. A nature center allows visitors to learn about the environment within the park through programs and activities. There are three hiking trails, ranging in length from ¾ mile to a little over 3 miles and a 7 mile canoe trail. The longest and newest trail is one of only two backcountry trails in the Louisiana State Park system.

There are 50 RV campsites, all with water and electrical hookups. Primitive camping and RV sites without hookups are also available at a reasonable price. The entrance fee for day use of the park is only $1.00 per person, and is free for children under 3 and for senior citizens.

Lake Fausse Point sits in one of the wildest and most scenic parts of the nation. It is the only river-bottomed swamp in the North America and wildlife is abundant. Living on the islands, in the marshes and around the cypress trees are bald eagles, river otters, cottonmouth snakes, nutria, armadillos, white-tailed deer, massive snapping turtles, alligators and more.

The best way to explore the park is by canoe. One can paddle down Bird Island Chute or follow the marked canoe trail along the eastern side of the lake.  More extensive exploration of the swamp is best done with an experienced guide as submerged logs and stumps can damage a power boat and it is easy to get lost in all the canals, chutes and bayous.

Lake Fausse Point state park is one of the most primitive areas of nature in the US. The camping accommodations are wonderful, but the backcountry waters are fantastic.

Article by Ryan

Louisiana Camping