Explore Sam Houston Jones State Park

Situated just outside of Lake Charles where the Houston River joins the Calcasieu River and the Indian Bayou, Sam Houston Jones State Park is a 1,087-acre public green space with bald cypress tree-filled lagoons, abundant wildlife and a striking mix of pine and hardwood forest. The numerous waterways make water sports a natural highlight at the park, with options to rent boats and kayaks on the West Fork of the Calcasieu River. The park is also home to one of the best bird watching sites in the Louisiana, and more than 70 acres of longleaf pines, the oldest living pine species to be found in the South. Three major hiking trails that wind through the park offer pleasurable strolling or serious hiking – and crossing the Old Stagecoach Road is a must if you’re on foot.

Sam Houston Jones was named in honour of the state’s 46th governor, who set aside this beautiful expanse for the public to enjoy, and a visit to Lake Charles isn’t complete without a stop in this state park.