Lake Claiborne

In addition to swimming, Lake Claiborne State Park offers a ton of activities, including birdwatching, boating, jet skiing, camping, and hiking. For those interested in fishing, the lake is home to largemouth bass, bluegill sunfish, and channel catfish, to name a few. Want something a little more lowkey? Simply unwind and take in the unmatched natural beauty. The lake itself has a surface size of 6,400 acres at the full reservoir level. Swimming at the park’s sandy beach is one of the most well-liked pastimes for visitors of all ages. The beach, which is located on an inlet, is shielded from sailboats and water-skiers.  Ecologists and sportsmen praise the lake’s superb water quality. So go for a dip in the refreshing water of Lake Claiborne!

The Bogue Chitto

If tubing, kayaking, or canoeing is more your speed, consider a trip to The Bogue Chitto. A day at this local swimming hole feels like relaxing on your own personal beach! Pebble and sand beaches border Washington Parish where the Bogue Chitto flows, and under its shaded banks, swimmers are welcome.  The area’s tubing facility offers two- or four-hour float trips. While you float down the river, you can sit back and take in the constantly changing scenery. You will pass small beaches, where you can stop to hang out, eat, swim, or relax by the water’s edge.

Fontainebleau State Park

On the edge of Lake Pontchartrain stands the 2,800-acre park known as Fontainebleau. Located just 40 minutes from New Orleans, this park in Mandeville, LA is the perfect destination for a weekend family getaway! On clear days, visitors can see boats of different sizes dispersed across the lake, as well as different species of birds.  This area offers the most gorgeous beaches in the Lake Pontchartrain basin, which you can access year-round via the State Park, which charges a small fee. The Tammany Trace bike path also passes through the park, so you can take a ride and work up a sweat before cooling off in the refreshing lake. After a long day of fun, overnight visitors can relax in the cabins on the lakeshore or take advantage of the beautifully rustic campground.

Holly Beach

The Cajun Riviera, also known as Holly Beach, is not a typical resort beach. Large hotels and upscale restaurants are not to be found here.  Many consider this spot the nicest beach close to New Orleans because of its long coastline and unique spirit. This is a great location for shelling, meditation, and long, calm walks. Fishermen licenses are not required! You can pitch a tent or, if you plan to remain for an extended period of time, consider renting an RV or a small house – there are several bright houses for rent along the coast. There are several public crabbing locations for lowkey entertainment. There aren’t any restaurants around, so pack your own meals!

Toledo Bend

Excellent swimming spots can be found at Toledo Bend Lake. What better way to spend a hot summer day than with a relaxing family swim? Toledo Bend is one of the best lakes in the Texas/Louisiana area; it’s definitely worth a visit. This beautiful lake provides a lovely setting for swimming and other leisure activities like fishing, boating, water sports, and more. There are several places to swim at Toledo Bend, so visitors can enjoy plenty of space.

Kisatchie Bayou

We’ve discovered the swimming hole in Louisiana with the cleanest, clearest water: Kisatchie Bayou. This gorgeous bayou is located in central Louisiana. Sandstone rocks cause the rapids and minor falls that are unique to the area, drawing visitors from around the state. You can check out these beautiful rapids before or after your summertime swim! Additionally, several rope swings can be found slightly higher up where the water is deep enough to jump in!

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