3 places to go for a mid-summer splash
The dog days of summer have arrived — but fear not! We have some suggestions for some mid-summer splash spots where you can swim, cool off and get in the outdoors — all at the same time!
Toledo Bend Sabine River Tailwater
The tailwater off the Toledo Bend Dam on the Sabine River is a fantastic little spot for picnicking, swimming, tubing and just hanging out in the water. Unless the release from the dam is really big, the water is clear, the swimming is great and there’s even a small rapid you can have fun floating through. The best part is that because the water is off the bottom of the reservoir, it’s freezing cold. Perfect for a hot Louisiana summer day! Rumor has it that there’s even a rope swing for the daring.
This little known spot is located on the gravel road that branches off Hwy 191 just south of the Toledo Bend Dam. Drive down the gravel road, then walk across the grassy area to reach the creek. A quick look at google maps before driving up will make this very simple.
Whiskey Chitto Creek
The classic cool-off canoeing and swimming spot is Whiskey Chitto Creek, north of Jennings. This clear running sandy bottom creek is perfect for a summer day-long paddling trip. This little gem of a creek is perfect for paddling, fishing and swimming. A gentle current makes a great float for families although you’ll want to check with your rental outfitter on the actual river level. Excessive rains can raise the current. The classic float trip that most folks take begins at the Hwy 26 bridge near Mittie and finishes at Carpenters bridge. A quick google search of “Whiskey Chitto Canoe Rentals” will turn up plenty of options for canoe rentals. One warning: Weekends can be on the wild side with lots of folks floating and partying. For the best experience, go on a weekday.
Kisatchie Bayou - Caroline Dormon Trail
For a nice hike along a clear sandy bottom creek, find your way to Kisatchie Bayou, northwest of Alexandria in the Kisatchie Ranger District. The Caroline Dormon trailhead is located at this campsite. Once you park and pay your fee, walk down to the creek and look for the trail. The trail will run upstream from the camp. You can walk for a mile or two before the trail turns away from the creek towards the north trailhead. All along this short section of trail are great opportunities for swimming, wildlife watching and discovering this beautiful area. To find Kisatchie Bayou Camp, google the term “Bayou Camp Rd, Provencal, LA”. The parking area is at the end of this road.
http://packpaddle.com/where-to-go/camping/kisatchie-ranger-district/
Yes, it’s intimidatingly hot. But with a little planning, you can have a great day with friends or family and make memories for a lifetime!
John & Becky Williams are the owners of Pack & Paddle — an outdoor shop and guiding service in Lafayette. From paddling to hiking to kayak fishing, they look for any opportunity they can to get out and enjoy Louisiana's outdoors.