Chemin-A-Haut State Park is one of the most underrated state parks in Louisiana. The 500+ acre park is a treasure trove of trails for hikers, equestrians, and paddlers alike. There’s one incredible natural wonder within the park that few people know about, and that’s most likely because you can’t see it from land. You’ll need a boat and a paddle to check out this awe-inspiring tree in Louisiana, and it’s worth every stroke to see this ancient cypress tree in person.
Chemin-A-Haut is one of northern Louisiana’s most beautiful state parks.
Brent C./Trip Advisor It’s also the oldest state park in Louisiana. Located on a high bluff that overlooks Bayou Bartholomew, the park takes its name from the French word meaning “high road” and was used by Native Americans many years ago as a travel route.
One of the biggest hidden gems in the park will require you to get out on the water.
Casey Hebert/Google You’re welcome to bring your own canoe or kayak, but you can always rent a canoe at the park.
The slow movement of the bayou is perfect for leisurely paddles. Soak in those beautiful sights!
Jody Abbitt/Google Even though you’re in northern Louisiana, it feels like you’re traveling through the Atchafalaya!
Spared from the timber industry, some of the largest and oldest cypress trees are located here, including the Castle Tree.
Chemin-A-Haut State Park/Facebook It takes about an hour to get to the tree, so keep that in mind as you plan your outing.
Measuring about 20 feet in diameter, this old-growth tree is estimated to be anywhere from 800-1000 years old!
NinjaNathen12 Yo Ninja/Google And it’s still growing!
The hollowed-out portion of the tree is large enough to paddle into, too.
Chemin-A-Haut State Park/Facebook In fact, there are rumors that many, many years ago, folks used to store moonshine within the hollowed-out portion. From the bank, you can’t see the hollow side, making it the perfect spot to stash some booze and keep it safe from the cops. Whether that’s true or not is anyone’s guess, but we admire the creativity!
After a full day on the water, why not make a weekend out of it and extend your stay?
Susie Wheeler/Google There are several cabins and campsites available to rent, so go ahead and spend a night or two at this enchanting state park.
Check out Chemin-A-Haut’s website for rates and availability for cabin rentals and campsites.
Brent C./Trip Advisor
It’s also the oldest state park in Louisiana. Located on a high bluff that overlooks Bayou Bartholomew, the park takes its name from the French word meaning “high road” and was used by Native Americans many years ago as a travel route.
Casey Hebert/Google
You’re welcome to bring your own canoe or kayak, but you can always rent a canoe at the park.
Jody Abbitt/Google
Even though you’re in northern Louisiana, it feels like you’re traveling through the Atchafalaya!
Chemin-A-Haut State Park/Facebook
It takes about an hour to get to the tree, so keep that in mind as you plan your outing.
NinjaNathen12 Yo Ninja/Google
And it’s still growing!
In fact, there are rumors that many, many years ago, folks used to store moonshine within the hollowed-out portion. From the bank, you can’t see the hollow side, making it the perfect spot to stash some booze and keep it safe from the cops. Whether that’s true or not is anyone’s guess, but we admire the creativity!
Susie Wheeler/Google
There are several cabins and campsites available to rent, so go ahead and spend a night or two at this enchanting state park.
For more outdoor adventures, check out our previous article highlighting some of our favorite natural wonders in Louisiana.
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Address: Chemin-A-Haut State Park, 14656 State Park Rd, Bastrop, LA 71220, USA
