Sam Houston Jones State Park

Sam Houston Jones State Park is a park in near the city of Lake Charles in southwestern Louisiana (USA) located at the confluence of the Houston and Calcasieu Rivers and Indian Bayou. It consists of 1,087 acres (4.4 km²) of woodlands, lakes and rivers. Prominent in the park are many bald cypress trees. Tree-filled lagoons and a mixed pine and hardwood forest combine to create a unique natural environment. The area hosts an abundance of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, bobcats, rabbits, alligators, otters, nutria rats, raccoons, foxes, and diverse birdlife. The park also has a herd of deer kept in a special area of the park. Ducks and geese are usually found swimming in the ponds.

The following information is taken from the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism at http://www.crt.state.la.us/parks/iShjones.aspx

"Originally named for the Texas folk hero who traveled extensively in the western reaches of Louisiana, Sam Houston Jones was given its current name in honor of the state's 37th governor, who was instrumental in the park's creation.

The site is located in the Central Migratory Flyway and just north of the most productive birding region in Louisiana. Bird watching in the park is excellent. In the spring and fall, migratory patterns bring nearly 200 bird species within 30 miles (50 km) of the park site.

Facilities include campsites, cabins, a boat launch, rental boats, a scenic picnic area with pavilions, a playground and restrooms.

Originally named for the Texas folk hero who traveled extensively in the western reaches of Louisiana, Sam Houston Jones was given its current name in honor of the state's 37th governor, who was instrumental in setting aside this tract of land for the public to enjoy.

Because the caretakers of this convert|1087|acre|km2|sing=on park have worked to keep the land in its natural state, abundant wildlife inhabits the area. Tree-filled lagoons and a mixed pine and hardwood forest combine to create a unique natural environment. The park is located just north of the most productive birding region of Louisiana. The bird watching is always excellent, but at certain times of year, nearly 200 species of birds can be seen at or within convert|30|mi|km of the site.

The numerous waterways in this area make water sports a natural highlight at the park. Two boat launches are conveniently located on the West Fork of the Calcasieu River, providing access to the Gulf of Mexico, only a few miles away. But it's not necessary to fish to enjoy the water. Rental boats are available those who simply wish to take in the serene beauty of the park's ponds.

The three hiking trails winding through this beautiful park make strolling or serious hiking, pleasurable. Particularly interesting is the old stagecoach road, which hikers may travel to explore the park and the banks of the various tributaries to the Calcasieu River."

According to the website referenced above, Hours of Operation are 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday through Thursday. All park sites close at 10 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and days preceding holidays.

Pricing information is available on the CRT website.