Things to do Near Chemin-A-Haut State Park
Those looking for a rustic getaway in the hills of northeast Louisiana should make time for a visit to Chemin-A-Haut State Park. This wonderland of forested hills and waterways is located about 40 miles north of the region’s largest city, Monroe, and just south of the Arkansas state line.
Those looking for a rustic getaway in the hills of northeast Louisiana should make time for a visit to Chemin-A-Haut State Park. This wonderland of forested hills and waterways is located about 40 miles north of the region’s largest city, Monroe, and just south of the Arkansas state line.
Chemin-A-Haut’s name comes from the French for “high road,” a description given to the trail once taken by American Indians generations ago. And indeed, Chemin-A-Haut State Park has numerous elevated trails, with views of Bayou Bartholomew and cypress-tupelo swamps.
Chemin-A-Haut State Park is an especially family-friendly getaway among Louisiana’s 22 state parks. In fact, it was designed with children in mind. For evidence of this, look no further than the two playgrounds, wading pool and swimming complex. Come during the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day — the warmest months of the year — when the pool is open. Cool off poolside after a day of hiking in the woods, kayaking in the bayou (kayaks can be rented by the hour or by the day), fishing on the banks, or picnicking with family and friends.
Equestrians, take note: An eight-mile-long day use trail is open during the day to riders who bring their own horses. Call the park ahead of time on the trail’s status.
At the end of a day exploring Chemin-A-Haut State Park, you’ll want to take a rest. There are numerous accommodation options here, including everything from rustic tent sites, to deluxe waterfront cabins, to RV sites with full electrical, sewer and water hookups.
Nearby Attractions
Chemin-A-Haut State Park’s nearest city is Bastrop, the seat of Morehouse Parish. Get a bite of barbecue at Slayden’s BBQ or Mack’s BBQ & Grill, and, for some true Louisiana soul food, head to Granny’s Family Restaurant. Fried chicken, cornbread, barbecue, pecan cobbler and, of course, sweet tea are on the menu at this humble restaurant, rated the top place to eat in Bastrop on TripAdvisor.
For those curious about the region’s culture, the Snyder Museum and Art Center in Bastrop is worth checking out. The museum is a gorgeous building that was once the home of Charles Snyder — the owner of the area’s largest department store — and his wife Esther. Their Craftsman-era home, built in 1929, became a museum in 1972 and in the decades since has become a repository of northeast Louisiana history. Visit the Carriage House and permanent exhibit of antiques, including a horse-drawn hearse and items from a historical country store.