Lake Fausse Pointe State Park occupies a 6,000-acre site which was once part of the Atchafalaya Basin. The area surrounding the park was formerly the home site of the Chitimacha Indians. From the middle 1700s, the region was dominated by French and Acadian farmers and trappers, although the Spanish were in control of the land from 1763 until 1802. It was during this period that a major influx of Spaniards and Canary Islanders (called Isleños) emigrated to the New Iberia area, contributing to the cultural diversity of this section of Louisiana.

Fishing, boating and canoeing opportunities abound. A boat launch gives visitors easy access to the labyrinth of waterways that winds through the Basin. Overnight visitors can "rough it" in the campground or stay in lake-front cabins. A visitor center complex features a boat dock with rentals, and a nature center provides fun programs and activities as a way to learn about the surrounding environment. Three hiking trails and a canoe trail offer a "up close" view of the area plant and wildlife, as well.

Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, at the edge of a beautiful water wilderness, is also a perfect point from which to explore the natural and cultural heritage of South Louisiana. Combine your wilderness adventure with a tour of nearby historic areas such as the city of St. Martinville and Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site. A stay at Lake Fausse Pointe State Park will be remembered as an introduction to the remarkable diversity of South Louisiana.

Hiking

Trails at Lake Fausse Pointe State Park
Trail A -- 3/4-mile nature trail
Trail B -- 1.6-mile nature trail
Trail C -- 3.3-mile nature trail
7-mile canoe trail

On-Site Activities:

Water Playground - Louisiana State Parks' water playgrounds operate Tuesdays through Sundays, April 1 through October 31, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; the facilities will be closed on Mondays for cleaning and maintenance. Please contact the park directly, to confirm that the playground is open or for additional information.

Birding
A Birder's Guide to Louisiana gives directions to over 100 areas for birding throughout the state, includes maps, Louisiana specialties, and contains beautiful photography and checklists of Louisiana birds and other wildlife. The Guide was produced through a partnership between the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area and the American Birding Association.