Caddo Lake is a wetland situated on the Texas and Louisiana border that covers about 108 km2 and hosts the largest cypress growth swamps in the world. The lake is also the largest lake in the USA’s South and the only natural lake in Texas. The interconnected waterways of Caddo Lake are home to many bird and animal species and the waters and their surroundings are amazing for a variety of activities for tourists.
Caddo Lake Biodiversity
The lush vegetation formed by the bayous, sloughs and pounds is the perfect sanctuary for 216 species of birds, 47 mammals, 71 fish species and about 20 reptile species. The wetland and the forests are the perfect environment for 189 species of trees and shrubs, 75 types of grass and 42 woody vines.
Some of the species sheltered by the wetland of Caddo Lake are endangered or rare species.
Caddo Lake Activities
This beautiful region is the perfect place for a wide range of outdoor activities. From birding and wildlife watching to more dynamic activities like canoeing, kayaking, boating and camping adventures, Caddo Lake is a paradise for family vacations and city breaks.
Caddo Lake Birding
Birdwatchers will be able to admire Loons, Grebes through Geese, Ducks, Mergansers, Herons, Turkey, Quail Rails, Shorebirds through Gulls, Terns, Doves, Cuckoos, Owls, Hummingbirds, Woodpeckers, Flycatchers, Jays, Crows, Vireos, Thrushes, Nuthatches, Creepers Wrens, Swallows, Kinglets, Finches, Crossbills, Warblers, Sparrows, Tanagers, Grosbeaks, Orioles and other amazing bird species.
Caddo Lake Wildlife Watching
When it comes to wildlife, visitors can spot white-tailed deer, beavers, minks, raccoons, nutrias, squirrels, turtles, snakes, alligators, armadillos and various species of frogs.
Caddo Lake Fishing
Being home to 71 species of fish, Caddo Lake is considered a fisherman’s paradise. Among the fish species that can be caught in the waters of Caddo Lake, largemouth bass is probably the most common. White bass and sunfish are other common species of fish caught by fishermen.
Caddo Lake Kayaking, Canoeing And Boating
Paddling on the calm waters of Caddo Lake is probably the best way to discover some of the most beautiful areas of the wetland. Large motor boats can also be used on the lake but some areas of the lake are accessible only for canoes, kayaks and other small boats. The boat roads are marked so tourists shouldn’t be worry about getting lost on the waters however, studying a map of the region and consulting it during boating or kayaking is highly advised.
Caddo Lake Accommodation
There are several areas around the park that are perfect for camping. Tourists can decide between RV camping or tent camping based on their preferences. The area for tent camping is a primitive camp area where visitors can be really close to nature and can experience a totally different lifestyle.
For those who want to spend more time in the beautiful wetland of Caddo Lake or for those who does not like camping, there are a wide range of lodging accommodations available. Motel rooms, cabins, cottages and elegant large houses are some of the options available for tourists.
