With over 6,400-acres of rolling hills, leafy pines, and beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder why Chicot State Park is one of Louisiana’s most beloved state parks. For nature lovers, there’s no better spot, and if you love paddling, then you definitely need to gas up the car and make your way over to Chicot State Park where you’ll find an eight-mile canoe trail that’s perfect for a day of fun in the sun.
Considering Chicot State Park is the largest state park in Louisiana, you have your work cut out for you if you want to explore it all.
Jackie Ann/Instagram
The 20-mile hiking trail is a great place to start. The trail completely encircles the lake, giving you glimpses of the cool refreshing waters.
Jackie Ann/Instagram Don’t worry - you don’t have to do all 20 miles at once. Break it up into smaller trips to fit your ability and needs.
But to explore the park from an entirely new perspective, rent a canoe from the front office.
John Hazlett/Google It’ll cost you about $25 for a full-day rental, and it’s worth every penny.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, the canoe trail is perfect for a day spent enjoying some of Louisiana’s most beautiful natural scenery.
Jackie Ann/Instagram
Once you launch, just follow the blazes along the shores.
Jackie Ann/Instagram
Of course, you’re not limited to just paddling around the blazes, but keep in mind that the lake does allow motorized boats, so keep an eye out if you decide to paddle out away from the shore.
Jackie Ann/Instagram
The views are one in a million!
Joshua Begnaud/Google
As you make your way around the lake, paddle into some of the inlets.
Joe Calderone/Google These little inlets are perfect for getting out of the wind for a moment, which can be daunting to paddle against.
You’ve never seen so many cypress trees.
Jackie Ann/Instagram Row after row! Weave around them to really explore your surroundings, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for wildlife along the way! Gators are pretty common along the shoreline, as well as birds, turtles, and your usual swamp critters.
After all that paddling, you’re bound to be tired! Chicot State Park has some truly delightful waterfront cabins that are great for a weekend retreat. Head on over to its website for rates and availability. Have you ever taken the canoe trail at Chicot State Park? Let us know in the comments!
Jackie Ann/Instagram
Don’t worry - you don’t have to do all 20 miles at once. Break it up into smaller trips to fit your ability and needs.
John Hazlett/Google
It’ll cost you about $25 for a full-day rental, and it’s worth every penny.
Joshua Begnaud/Google
Joe Calderone/Google
These little inlets are perfect for getting out of the wind for a moment, which can be daunting to paddle against.
Row after row! Weave around them to really explore your surroundings, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for wildlife along the way! Gators are pretty common along the shoreline, as well as birds, turtles, and your usual swamp critters.
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Address: Chicot State Park, 3469 Chicot Park Rd, Ville Platte, LA 70586, USA
