Things to do Near Poverty Point Reservoir State Park
Follow the path of the beautiful Bayou Maçon to Poverty Point Reservoir State Park, home to phenomenal fishing, unforgettable stargazing and unparalleled waterfront camping. The park, conveniently located just three miles north of Interstate 20 (the main thoroughfare through north Louisiana), is located in the region’s agricultural heartland.
Follow the path of the beautiful Bayou Maçon to Poverty Point Reservoir State Park, home to phenomenal fishing, unforgettable stargazing and unparalleled waterfront camping. The park, conveniently located just three miles north of Interstate 20 (the main thoroughfare through north Louisiana), is located in the region’s agricultural heartland.
Fishing is the main attraction at Poverty Point Reservoir State Park. Black crappie, largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish are found in the waters of the park’s namesake lake. The North Marina Complex, in the northwest corner of the lake, has a boat launch, marina, concession area, pier, fish cleaning station and even a beach. Flat-bottomed boats and canoes are available for rent as well.
Don’t forget to look overhead: migratory birds of all kinds fly through Poverty Point Reservoir State Park, particularly each spring and fall. This is part of the Mississippi Flyway, a route that birds take between North and South America; amateur and pro birders alike may see species here they won’t find elsewhere.
Take in the scenery at the short but scenic hiking trail. Notice the signs along the trail — this is black bear country, so be especially aware of your surroundings. Bear-proof containers are available for park visitors.
Also, look for the sign describing the Marsden Mounds. American Indians who lived here more than 3,000 years ago built monumental earthworks, remnants of which remain intact today. Marsden Mounds are part of the Ancient Mounds Trail, a network of driving trails that take visitors into the past at locations through central and north Louisiana.
Visitors wishing to stay longer than a few hours should consider staying at one of Poverty Point Reservoir State Park’s cabins. These waterfront buildings come with modern conveniences and great views of the lake, and some can accommodate up to 10 guests. RVers also will find much to love about Poverty Point Reservoir State Park. The 45 premium campsites and nine improved campsites come with water and electrical hookups.
Nearby Attractions
Delhi, located just to the south of Poverty Point Reservoir State Park, is the best place to get supplies on your way to the park, or for a quick bite at any time. Delhi Little Grill is a simple, no-frills diner that serves up tasty Southern-style comfort food, best known for its breakfast menu. And Champions Bistro is also a local standout.
Champions Bistro is located at Black Bear Golf Club, a public course that is part of Louisiana’s Audubon Golf Trail. This 18-hole course has been ranked Golfweek’s Best Public Golf Course in Louisiana multiple years, from 2010 to 2016, and was named one of GolfDigest’s Best New Courses in 2007.
Finally, head north to the site that gave Poverty Point Reservoir its name. Poverty Point World Heritage Site is an archaeological marvel of ancient engineering, comprised of monumental earthworks that date back thousands of years. Stop by this State Historic Site’s visitors center to begin your journey into the past, viewing artifacts that tell the tangible stories of a cultural group whose trade networks stretched across the present-day South and Midwest. Trade materials from as far away as the Great Lakes, Iowa and Tennessee have been discovered at Poverty Point.