Caddo Lake State Park sits on a vast cypress swamp near Karnack

Caddo Lake straddles the Texas-Louisiana line in Harrison and Marion counties. The state park sits at 245 Park Road 2 in Karnack. It covers part of a shallow, heavily wooded lake known for its bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. The lake runs about 20 feet deep at most. Largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, chain pickerel, and other species live here. Over 70 fish species total have been recorded. A fish consumption advisory is currently in effect — check TPWD for the latest details before eating your catch.

The park has an improved boat ramp, a fishing pier, picnic tables, and 2.5 miles of hiking trails. You can rent canoes and paddle Big Cypress Bayou or try the Hell's Half Acre Paddling Trail if you are an experienced paddler. Overnight options include 46 campsites and historic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Day-use entry costs $4 for adults; children 12 and under get in free. You do not need a fishing license to fish from shore inside a state park.