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BAYOU STATE TRAIL ASSOCIATION

Established 2021

South Louisiana

Known for its bayous and swamps, and at a length of approximately 160 miles, this section of the trail passes you through the region that is known as Acadiana. This region features Chicot State Park, the Atchafalaya Basin and several Cajun communities in between. It comprises two sections which are the Cajun Prairie and Atchafalaya Basin.

Cajun Prairie:

Spanning approximately 50 miles, this section starts just north of Chicot State Park, the largest state park in Louisiana. When entering the park, the trail follows along the Chicot Loop, providing spectular views of Lake Chicot and several primitive campsites. The park also provides designated camping including showers and laundrymats. Upon exiting the park, the trail runs you through the City of Ville Platte, and a first hand view of how Cajuns live along the prairie, before eventually reaching the Town of Washington, where lodging options are available. For additional lodging and resupply options, the City of Opelousas is just a few minutes south of Washington. The trail then passes through the Town of Port Barre before reaching the Atchafalaya Basin at U.S. Hwy 190.

*** You MUST check in at Chicot State Park prior to camping and hiking through this area.

Atchafalaya Basin:

Serving as the largest swamp wetland area in the United States, it provides one of the most unique stretches for hiking in the entire world! Spanning approximately 100 miles, the first 70 run along the West Atchafalaya Levee, providing magnificent views of the basin. Just south of Interstate 10 is the Town of Henderson, known for its swamp tours and fantastic Cajun restaurants. It also includes Henry Guidry Memorial Park, which serves as a designated campground for BST hikers. Approximately 23 miles south of Henderson is Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, which provides several camping options including showers. 19 Miles south of the park is Myette Pointe, with camping options located at the boat landing and another just minutes away near the Wildlife and Fisheries office. The final 10 miles along the levee concludes at the Verdunville Boat Landing, where you begin your approach to the Southern Terminus, passing through several communities including Centerville, Verdunville, Patterson, Bayou Vista, Berwick and Morgan City. Camping along this stretch is available near the Wax Lake Outlet Boat Landing in Calumet and Lake End Park in Morgan City. Within two miles of the Southern Terminus is the historic Hwy 182 bridge over the Atchafalaya River, connecting Berwick to Morgan City. The Southern Terminus is located at the Cajun Coast Visitor Center, which serves a great place to start or end your hike.

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The Bayou State Trail Association is a Louisiana non-profit organization.

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