Chemin-A-Haut State Park

Chemin-A-Haut State Park is situated on a high bluff overlooking Bayou Bartholomew, one of Louisiana's most unspoiled and scenic waterways. This site takes its name from the French word meaning "high road." It is apt, as Native Americans first used this route during their seasonal migrations and then European explorers exploited it. 

With its marshy lake edge and mixed pine-hardwood forest, this five-acre site is an excellent "leg-stretcher" for historically-minded traveling birders. 

Typical woodland birds include Mississippi Kite, Northern Flicker, Carolina Wren, Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird, and Pine Warbler. In winter, the year-round community is joined by nearctic species such as Eastern Phoebe, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Swamp Sparrow, and Cedar Waxwing. 

Expect a good showing of wading birds around the marshy edges of Cane River Lake, an old oxbow of the nearby Red River. Commonly observed species include Great Blue Heron, Great and Snowy Egrets, and White Ibis. In the summer, look for the shy Green Heron, nesting within the dense brushy growth along the lake's edge. 

Bikers, hikers, birders, nature photographers, swimmers, fishermen, paddlers, horseback riders, and campers take advantage of the beautiful seclusion of this tranquil park site. Chemin-A-Haut State Park has two playgrounds, a seasonal swimming pool, and a wading pool. The picnic area includes 35 family sites with grills and tables, five group sites (for up to 24 people), and three shelters. 

The park hosts a nature center, bathrooms, and three nature trails, including an eight-mile equestrian trail. In addition to RV and tent camping, overnight guests can relax in cabins, some located near the day-use area, while more-secluded units are on the bayou.