South Toledo Bend State Park
Boating, birding, fishing, hiking and biking await guests at this park overlooking Toledo Bend Reservoir.
Situated on bluffs overlooking the enormous Toledo Bend Reservoir, South Toledo Bend State Park certainly lives up to its reputation as one of the nation’s top spots for recreational fishing. Toledo Band Reservoir has also previously been named the nation's No. 1 bass fishery by Bassmaster magazine.
Boaters and pier fishermen alike have many options for casting a line. Largemouth bass, white perch, catfish and bream crowd the lake’s waters, and all are easily reachable via the park’s boat ramp or one of the piers or bridges found within the park. Thanks to South Toledo Bend State Park’s topography, numerous inlets give anglers calm waters and spectacular views, which make fishing here all the more memorable.
Hiking, mountain biking and birding are other popular activities at the park. South Toledo Bend State Park is home to bald eagle nesting grounds, so listen up and look up for a chance to spot one. The park is also the only one in the state parks system that allows the use of off-road vehicles. Nearly 10 miles of rocky, hilly country await riders in need of an adrenaline fix, located in a designated area away from the park’s main facilities.
Overnight visitors can choose from a deluxe cabin (which sleeps up to eight guests), RV campsites or tent campsites.
Looking for more attractions? Just outside of South Toledo Bend State Park is the Gothic Jail of DeRidder. A little further down the road are the shops, historic homes and restaurants of Natchitoches.
Entrance fee: $3 per person; free for seniors age 62 and older, and children age 3 and younger.
