Top 3 Spots for Boating Near Lafayette, LA

Located in the southern part of the state and less than 50 miles from the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, the city of Lafayette, LA, is a perfect base for water sports enthusiasts looking for the best fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking spots. If you are looking for some great destinations to spend a fun weekend with your friends, these are some nearby places you should check out while in the area.

1. Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge

Covering over 35,000 acres, Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge is a top-rated weekend destination among residents of Lafayette, New Orleans, and even Houston. Established in 1937, it is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and features excellent opportunities for numerous outdoor sports and activities. The wildlife refuge is located along the shores of Grand Lake and Lake Misere, which are both open for boaters between March 15 and October 15.

Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge is located about 75 miles west of downtown Lafayette, making it possible to reach it in an hour and a half by car, driving along route I-10. Other popular activities in this extensive wildlife refuge include fishing, hiking, wildlife watching, and selective hunting. This place can be visited free of charge, and although camping is not permitted within the refuge, there are nearby campgrounds where visitors can stay overnight.

2. Lake Verret

Located close to the small town of Pierre Part, Lake Verret is another popular destination among water sports enthusiasts from all over southern Louisiana. Draining into the Atchafalaya River and the Gulf of Mexico, this body of water covers about 5,700 acres and can be reached in a little under two hours by car, driving southeast along route I-10. Lake Verret is also a great spot for fishing, with healthy populations of bream, white crappie, and bass.

The most used boat ramps and fishing spots along the shores of this lake are located within the premises of Elm Hall Wildlife Management Area, a 2,800-acre protected territory established in 1998 and managed by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. This nature reserve also features an extensive camping area and well-equipped picnic spots. Other popular activities here include wildlife watching and selective hunting.

3. Cypremort Point State Park

Located about 45 miles south of downtown Lafayette, Cypremort Point State Park is another beautiful spot featuring boat ramps, a kayak launch, a swimming beach, and other facilities that make it a popular weekend destination among residents of the state. This state park covers an area of about 185 acres and was established in 2004 by the Louisiana Office of State Parks. Visitors are required to pay a $3 daily usage fee to access the park.

Are you ready to check out these fantastic and nearby spots? If you are looking for a new or used vehicle to visit these and other destinations, stop by Service Chevrolet Cadillac! We have an extensive inventory of cars and a team of friendly agents who will be happy to help you find a great deal.

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