Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Louisiana
Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know
Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know
When most folks think of Louisiana, they think about the gulf coast, like the culture and excitement of New Orleans or the fun nightlife in Lake Charles. In the northern part of the state, however, RV adventurers will find some southern small-town charm and bayou ecosystems teeming with diverse wildlife. One excellent example can be found at the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge in the town of Monroe.
The 5,300-acre refuge is managed by the city and its close proximity to Monroe makes it a popular choice for locals to get out into nature. Black Bayou provides excellent opportunities to view tons of local animals like alligators, whitetail deer, and alligator snapping turtles as well as hundreds of bird species. The refuge has a strong educational mission and welcomes visitors from all over to learn about the bayou ecosystem and what we can do to protect and preserve these valuable lands.
The primary reason folks visit the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge is to check out all of the fascinating creatures that live within it. The star of the show is certainly the American alligator. Look for dark, log-shaped figures near the banks and in cooler temps, you’ll probably spot a couple sunning themselves on the shore. If you visit in August/September, you might even spot some cute alligator babies scurrying about. Give them plenty of space though, because momma gator will be in ‘protection mode.’
The refuge is also a fantastic stop for the avid birder. In addition to the large herons, eagles, and tons of other waterfowl, Black Bayou Lake is home to the vulnerable Prothonotary Warbler. These bright yellow birds are very picky about their nesting options and are huge fans of all of the cypress trees in the refuge.
Stretch your legs and head out on one of the refuge’s six trails. Each trail is tailored to a different natural experience. Whether you are interested in birding, flora, forests, or the lakeshore, there is a trail that will get you into the heart of the action.
For those interested in alligators or catching a glimpse of a fishing heron, the Wildlife Pier Trail will get you out to all of the wildlife activity on the lake. During the spring and fall, a stroll along the Arboretum Trail features all of the colorful beauty of more than 150 native Louisiana trees and plants as they begin or end their seasonal transitions. If you have children with you, the Wildlife Challenge Trail contains 10 activity stations that will guide your little ones to emulate the resident animals (i.e., leap like a frog or climb like a spider).
You don’t just have to look at Black Bayou Lake, you can get out on the water and experience it for yourself. The 1,600-acre lake has tons of nooks and crannies to explore along the shore. Weave your way in between submerged cypress forests and look for more reclusive animals like nesting bald eagles or alligator snapping turtles.
If you aren’t bringing your own, canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the visitor center. You can choose from either a half- or full-day rental option. While you are out on the water, it’s also important to be aware of your surroundings; you don’t want to surprise a mature alligator.
Perhaps the most popular activity at the refuge is fishing. Anglers come from all over to enjoy the benefits of a highly protected ecosystem. With less traffic and pollution afforded by the refuge, fish feel far less pressure than at your average lake. This allows them to grow and reproduce better and even makes them less skittish. What this means for anglers is a high-quality fishing experience with plenty of bites.
Within the lake, fishermen will find largemouth bass, crappie, and a variety of bream species. Visitors are welcome to fish from a variety of piers scattered along the lakeshore or if they wish, launch a boat or kayak for a greater variety of spots. Before you cast a line, however, be sure to purchase an appropriate Louisiana-issued fishing license and familiarize yourself with local regulations.
As mentioned earlier, the refuge is passionate about community education. Visitors looking to learn more about the bayou ecosystem and the history of the refuge should visit the exhibits at the Conservation Learning Center. Here, you can interact with park staff and get all of your questions answered as well as enjoy some hands-on activities.
The Conservation Learning Center is particularly great for children. Live fish, amphibian, and reptile exhibits are available and, from time to time, you can even hold a snake or pet the tail of a baby gator. There is also an awesome mural that depicts the life of the refuge and is a great way to visually-demonstrate how wildlife is protected.
About nine miles north of the reservoir, you’ll find the Bayou Boeuf RV Park. This is a family-owned operation and campers confirm a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Just about any rig will fit in one of their 50 large sites outfit with full hookups. Additional amenities include a laundry facility, bathhouses, Wi-Fi, and a propane filling station.
Seated on the Ouachita River, the Sterlington RV Park is a great option for more active camping groups. Although the grounds are essentially one large greenspace, the campground is located directly across from the Sterlington Recreation Area which offers plenty of activities. These include a playground, picnic area, volleyball court, frisbee golf course, and boat launch. In addition, RV campsites are equipped with full hookup service and restroom facilities. If you’re looking for a hot bite to eat, there are also a number of restaurants in downtown Sterlington.
Enjoy gorgeous lakeside camping at D’Arbonne Pointe RV Park about 30 miles to the west in the town of Farmerville. This is more of a resort, with furnished cabins alongside the RV park which offers 35 full hookup sites. The campground is geared toward fishing culture, giving guests the opportunity to participate in periodic campground tournaments or leisurely cast a line for an exciting variety of fish species. Downtown Farmerville also has a few restaurants serving up regional favorites (like gumbo and crawfish) that locals swear by.
If something a little closer to town and the interstate sounds like a more practical option for your group, consider the Pavilion RV Park (15 miles). Just a few miles outside of downtown Monroe along I-20, this park is easily accessed and can get you on your way in a snap. Each and every RV site has full hookup access and guests will also enjoy amenities like the bathhouse, laundry facility, and mail service. For fun, head on down to the little fishing pond and try your luck for some bream and bass.
If you really want to keep the traditional camping feel, check out the campground at Lake D’Arbonne State Park. The 655-acre park has nearly 60 wooded campsites available for RVs with water/electric hookups. Here, you will be able to enjoy all of the natural fun that a state park offers like hiking trails, fishing, wildlife watching, and more. There are also some more modern amenities including a disc golf course, swimming pool, and tennis courts.
Unfortunately, there are no dining facilities at the refuge. There are, however, plenty of benches where you can enjoy a nice lunch in the open air. Just be sure to watch for curious/hungry birds.
The town of Monroe, right where the refuge is located, is sizable and has tons to offer hungry travelers. In addition to numerous Cajun restaurants, you’ll also find BBQ, Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean, fried chicken, Chinese, and pizza. There’s also a few cafes and coffee houses that are perfect for breakfast.
No matter where you stay, you’ll get a great snapshot of the diverse bayou ecosystem at the Black Lake Bayou National Wildlife Refuge.