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Southwest Louisiana is awash in outdoor activities that can be enjoyed almost all year due to the state’s warmer climate. Lake Charles, the body of water for which the city was named, is a freshwater lake with the only white-sand inland beach along the Gulf Coast. The lake is peppered with lovely boardwalks and viewpoints where locals spend time admiring the pristine waters and gaze out upon those enjoying water activities such as boating, skiing, kayaking, and fishing.

Embrace Sportsman’s Paradise

Louisiana enjoys the reputation as Sportsman’s Paradise and in Southwest Louisiana it’s easy to see why. You can fish all year as you reel in bass, crappie, redfish, catfish, and speckled trout, which all make for delicious eating. With plenty of woods and marsh located in all directions, duck and deer hunting are popular pastimes for many.  Southwest Louisiana is also located along both the Mississippi and Central Flyways, where over 400 species can be sighted. 

Get Moving

From kayaks and pontoons to bikes and your own two feet, there are so many different ways to experience the sights, sounds, and natural splendor of Southwest Louisiana. Across the region you can bring your own gear, rent watercraft or bikes, or stroll on the many hiking and nature trails. 

Get Outdoors

Looking for beautiful outdoor places to spend time and soak up Southwest Louisiana’s amazing and unique scenery? Here are just a few. The Creole Nature Trail All American Road begins in Sulphur, Louisiana, and winds its way through the area with multiple stops along boardwalks and beaches where you’re sure to see herons, egrets, numerous other bird species, and of course, alligators. The Trail offers outposts with hands-on displays, maps, and guides that provide information before you set off to explore the area’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Sam Houston Jones State Park is a beautiful place to camp, hike, and fish. The park features tree-filled lagoons and a mixed pine and hardwood forest that combine to create a unique natural environment. Tent camping, RVs, “glamping,” and cabins are all available. The Sabine Natural Wildlife Refuge occupies the marshes between Calcasieu and Sabine lakes, and contains a diversity of habitat including freshwater impoundments, wooded ridges and levees, canals, ponds, lakes, and bayous. The Refuge even features a designated crabbing area where you can try your luck at bringing in enough of these crustaceans for a nice crab boil dinner. You can also stroll, birdwatch, picnic, or shell at Holly Beach or Rutherford Beach, part of 26 miles of natural Gulf of Mexico beaches.

Have a Ball!

Lake Charles and the surrounding areas have ample opportunities for adults and children to enjoy organized sports leagues. Softball, baseball, football, flag football, basketball, tennis, and more are all available at modern parks and facilities. There are also numerous parks and playgrounds to run, walk, and play with friends and family. And don’t forget Bark du Lac, downtown’s new dog park to keep your four-legged friend busy.   

Cheer on the Pokes!

McNeese State University in Lake Charles is a premier institution of higher learning and home of the Cowboys. People from around the region flock to see The Pokes play football, basketball, soccer, softball, and others. More than just a game, many of these events are communal gatherings where tailgating abounds with plenty to eat and drink before the action starts. 

There are plenty of places to relax, play, and enjoy the unique features and diverse beauty of Southwest Louisiana. So, get out there!