Canoe Caddo Lake's Majestic Cypress Swamps

Paddle through the enchanting waterways of Caddo Lake State Park, exploring Saw Mill Pond, Big Cypress Bayou, and Hell's Half Acre Paddling Trail!

Last updated: Jan 2024

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$4 park entrance fee + $30 canoe rental/day
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Canoeing at Caddo Lake State Park is an unforgettable experience, taking you through mystical cypress swamps and diverse ecosystems. Rent a canoe at the park office or bring your own, and set off to explore Saw Mill Pond and the Big Cypress Bayou. For experienced paddlers, challenge yourself on the Hell's Half Acre Paddling Trail, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the park.

Alternatively, reserve your canoe at Potters Point Marina: potterspoint.com ($30/day)

Perfect for

For solo

For two

Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

Arrive at Caddo Lake State Park
Rent a canoe at the park office or unload your own
Begin paddling through Saw Mill Pond and Big Cypress Bayou
Optionally, experienced paddlers can explore Hell's Half Acre Paddling Trail
Enjoy the natural beauty of the park
Return the canoe (if rented) and exit the park

Location & Hours

245 Park Rd 2, Karnack, TX 75661

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Working Hours

Mon8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Tue8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Wed8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Thu8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Fri8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sat8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sun8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Packing List

Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
Water shoes or closed-toe shoes
Sunscreen
Hat
Sunglasses
Insect repellent
Water bottle
Snacks

4.7 ● Google reviews

Staff was great! Shout out to Suzanne who was awesome! Campground had nice sites and fantastic bathroom facilities. The canoeing was good in Saw Mill Pond - see the beaver lodge- but the Bayou was filled with motor boats so 1/2 mile out and back was enough. Other canoe trails on the Bayou are nearby and might be much better. Small park all-in-all; only 2.5 miles of hiking but lots to do in the area.

Had a great time! I was greeted by 2 park rangers that had a couple of tables set up for the park’s 90th anniversary. They were friendly and informative about the animals at the park. Put in kayaks at the boat ramp. Gorgeous scenery.

the park is excellent!!! to be honest I think it should be more than a state park. it’s much more fun than Hot springs!! it’s a hidden gem. The best way to visit the park is to visit in late october and rent a boat. otherwise it might be too hot.

Neat park. Nice museum. Great fishing and kayaking lake. We enjoyed the scenery with the cypress trees and Spanish moss. There’s a really neat old saloon out in the middle of the lake.

Check-in was seamless. We arrived after hours from Oklahoma. Only spent 1 night. Camping sites were clean. Bathrooms were bathrooms at a park. Showers were great, hot water was good. Beautiful nature and Spanish moss! If you’re camping in a tent, bring bug spray.

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