Sam Houston Jones State Park

Sam Houston Jones State Park near Lake Charles is teeming with wildlife. That’s because the caretakers of this 1,087-acre park work diligently to keep the land in its natural state. This site is located just north of Cameron parish, Louisiana's most productive birding region. The bird watching here is also excellent, with a checklist approaching 200 species. 

Woodland bird activity is plentiful year-round and includes numerous species of raptors, flycatchers, vireos, thrushes, mimic thrushes, wrens, sparrows, finches, orioles, grosbeaks, and tanagers. Nearly 30 species of warblers have appeared here as well. 

Numerous waterways make water sports a park highlight. Two boat launches are located on the West Fork of the Calcasieu River, providing access to Calcasieu Lake, about 20 miles away. Three hiking trails wind through the park. Particularly interesting is the old stagecoach road. Other typical recreational activities include biking, birding, camping, fishing, and nature photography. 

The Office of State Parks partners with Sasol in Lake Charles on the Longleaf Legacy Project to preserve this iconic tree's natural history and ensure the resiliency of such habitats for generations to come. Longleaf pine was once one of the most abundant tree species in the southeastern U.S. Still, logging, farming, and urban encroachment have greatly diminished longleaf pine habitat by 90 percent in Louisiana alone. This project includes restoring over 70 acres of longleaf pine forest and companion educational programs. 

Amenities at the park include directional/identification signage, restrooms, parking, boardwalks, and observation platforms. The site is handicapped-accessible.