Home To A Plethora Of Outdoor Adventures, This Louisiana State Park Is A Must-Visit

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Louisiana is known as the Sportsman's Paradise. In many ways, Lake Claiborne State Park in Homer, Louisiana, encapsulates why the Bayou State has earned that moniker, as it is home to a plethora of outdoor adventures. Of the 21 state parks in Louisiana, Lake Claiborne is neither the largest, nor the most visited. However, those who do visit this somewhat hidden jewel in the northwest corner of the state will discover an almost endless array of activities ranging from fishing to disc golf.

Although the lake itself is the obvious centerpiece of the park, there are plenty of land-based activities as well, the aforementioned disc golf among them. The park features two 18-hole courses, One geared for beginners (equipment is available to rent), while the other is set up for more experienced players. They are even ranked as the two top disc golf courses in Louisiana. The park hosts several tournaments each year and disc golfers take in some incredible scenery and can view a diverse array of wildlife while playing.

Those interested in more traditional outdoor pursuits can hike along one of the half-dozen park trails. Ranging from .14 to 6 miles long, these pathways are a perfect way to view the park's abundance of birds. There is also an overlook for birders and wildlife watchers. The park's combination of water, woods, and open spaces make it an ideal location for birding and a number of guided tours are offered. Those who choose to do the DIY thing while exploring the should carry a field guide such as the "Louisiana Nature Set." They should also keep an eye out for dangerous types of snakes, as both copperheads and water moccasins are present throughout this portion of the state.

While the land inside Lake Claiborne SP is rich with recreational opportunities, it is the 6,400-acre lake itself which gives visitors the greatest amount of options. Although it is not uncommon for people to swim throughout the lake, there is a designated swimming area within the state park, secluded from boat traffic, making it a safer option. Not to worry, boaters, paddlers, and water skiers: There's plenty of water in the remainder of the lake to enjoy. Visitors who don't have their own watercraft will find canoes, kayaks, or flat bottom boats, available to rent. Paddles and life jackets are included with each rental. While there are people it helps to know how to pick the right-sized life jacket for your child for optimal safety. 

Freshwater bait fishing is one of the most popular activities at Lake Claiborne State Park. In fact, the lake is known as one of the better fisheries in the state. Anglers are able to fish from shore, the park's numerous fishing piers, or from boats, canoes, and kayaks. Besides renting watercraft in the park, anglers can also launch their own at one of two boat ramps. The lake is routinely stocked with popular gamefish such as largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, striped bass, and more. There is also a fish cleaning station for those who wish to keep a few catches for dinner.

Those who wish to overnight at Lake Claiborne State Park have a number of options from which to choose. These range from primitive tent sites to deluxe cabins. Each of the camping areas has waterfront access. Inside the camping areas, 20 sites are designated as premium, with a dozen being pull-through sites, while 8 others are deemed to be prime locations. Each site has full water and electrical hookups. There are also 67 improved campsites that include water and electricity. Additionally, there are two unimproved campsites with no hookups, which means anyone staying there needs to be prepared to take adventure of the popular trend of dry camping.

There are also 10 deluxe cabins available for rent in Lake Claiborne SP, two of which are ADA compliant. Each cabin sleeps up to 8 people, and are equipped with kitchenware and dining needs, towels, and linens. On the opposite end of the spectrum, those for whom wild camping is the right choice can take advantage of the primitive camping area, where there's room for about 20 campers, as determined by the camp manager. Regardless of the type of site or cabin you choose, reservations should be made online in advance of your visit.