Immerse yourself in nature at the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This majestic 4,500-acre expanse of lake, swamp, bottomland hardwoods, mixed pine and hardwood uplands is a wildlife habitat with all manner of plant species and everything from small alligators and turtles to coyote, deer and a wide variety of fowl. Delight in the beauty of herons, egrets, orioles and red-winged blackbirds from the wildlife pier or bird blind. Walk on a nature trail that meanders through a forested wetland. Marvel at the quiet beauty of the 1,600-acre lake from the quiet of your rented canoe with stately cypress and tupelo trees towering overhead. The Visitors' Center, a restored 1880s Acadian house, offers interactive exhibits and a nature shop. Behind the center is a covered amphitheater for educational programs. Visit the conservation learning center with its mural of the lake and live animal exhibits of native fish and reptiles. Other features include an arboretum with labeled Louisiana native tree and woody shrub species, a photo blind, boat launch, canoeing, year-round fishing, and seasonal hunting opportunities.
Related Content
Mushroom March
Monroe
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge | 480 Richland Place Drive
Monroe, LA 71203
(318) 387-1114
Website
Mushroom MarchBlack Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge | 480 Richland Place Drive
Monroe, LA 71203
Spooky Spiders
Monroe
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge | 480 Richland Pl Drive
Monroe, LA 71203
(318) 387-1114
Spooky SpidersBlack Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge | 480 Richland Pl Drive
Monroe, LA 71203
Black Bayou Fall Celebration
Monroe
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge | 480 Richland Pl Drive
Monroe, LA 71203
(318) 387-1114
Website
Black Bayou Fall CelebrationBlack Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge | 480 Richland Pl Drive
Monroe, LA 71203

Valentine Rendezvous in Monroe-West Monroe
Roses are red and violets are blue, this Valentine's Day, discover something new! Monroe-West Monroe will be your Cupid this year. Let us help plan the perfect Valentine's date for you and…

The Best Spots to Go Birding in MWM
Have you ever heard the term “birding?” It is defined as observing or identifying wild bird species in their natural habitats, and it is a very popular hobby around the world. Here…

Get Moving Outside the Lines
Spring is in full bloom here in Monroe-West Monroe, and we have some beautiful spots for you and your family to enjoy moving in the outdoors together!

How to Weekend in MWM
Leave the stress of the real world behind, and discover a relaxing weekend outside the lines in Monroe-West Monroe.