10 Oct Caddo Lake in Texas: Boat Tours and Things to Do

Caddo Lake State Park has an array of cypress trees, bayous, ponds, and sloughs in northeastern Texas and northwestern Louisiana. There are not just a few cypress trees, but instead Caddo Lake holds the largest cypress forest in the entire world. Additionally, a vast variety of species have made their homes in the state park, for example alligators, snakes, birds, armadillos, and more. Whether you plan to spend the day or the whole weekend at Caddo Lake State Park, there are so many things to do to fill up your time. For example, you can rent a canoe and paddle along the water, bring some fishing poles to try and catch some fish, book a boat tour, and/or set up a tent to camp for the night.

I visited Caddo Lake while on a road trip from Pennsylvania to California with friends, and it was one of my favorite stops along the way. The lake was beautiful and unlike any other attraction we visited on the road trip. If you need some help packing for your road trip, then check out my summer road trip packing list as well as my winter road trip packing list. 

Contents:

1) Location of Caddo Lake in Texas

2) Opening Hours and Entrance Fee

3) The Best Time to Visit

4) Quick Facts

5) General Park Information

6) Things to Do at Caddo Lake

7) Best Caddo Lake Boat Tours

8) Recommended Items to Bring

1) Location of Caddo Lake in Texas

Where is Caddo Lake State Park located? Caddo Lake State Park is located in northeastern Texas, specifically the town of Karnack. Moreover, Caddo Lake itself even extends into northwest Louisiana. If you are looking for an exact location to visit, well that depends on what you would like to do within the state park. The following sections will hold more information on where to go for a view of the lake, swamp tours, boat launches, etc.

For reference, the state park is approximately three hours east of Dallas and four hours north of Houston. While it might be a bit far away for a day trip, it is the perfect distance for a weekend getaway. If you are planning a Texas road trip, then I definitely recommend you add the Reunion Tower in Dallas as well as Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Canyon to your itinerary. 

Parking

There is plenty of parking available within the state park. Simply drive to the attraction you wish to visit, and there will most likely be a parking lot connected to it. 

Nearby Lodging

Are there hotels near Caddo Lake? There are a variety of accommodation options near Caddo Lake State Park; the majority of them are within the nearby towns of Marshall and Jefferson. One of the top-rated stays in the area is The Steamboat Inn. It is a bed and breakfast that also includes an outdoor fireplace as well as a garden. On the other hand, one of the cheapest stays in the area is the Historic Kahn Hotel. Even though it is a cheaper option, it still has very good reviews. 

Additionally, you can choose to stay within the state park at a campground or in a cabin. The park has over 40 campground sites available. The different campground sites offer different amenities. For example, you can book a full-hookup site or a site that only has electricity. Moreover, the park has 10 cabins available of varying sizes. For example, there are cabins that can accommodate two, four, and six people.

Check out the Caddo Lake cabin page and the Caddo Lake campsite page for more information. They provide information on nightly fees, number of sites available, number of people allowed per site, amenities included, and more.

Looking up at the trees by the shore of Caddo Lake

Nearby Airports

What airports are close to Caddo Lake? The closest airports to Caddo Lake are city and country airports. Unfortunately these airports do not generally offer flight options for the public. That being said, you need to instead consider nearby regional or international airports.

For example, the closest regional airport is the Shreveport Regional Airport. It is located only 40 minutes southeast from the state park. Additionally, the East Texas Regional Airport is the next closest regional airport at 55 minutes southwest. The third closest regional airport is the Texarkana Regional Airport at one hour and five minutes northeast. All three regional airports mentioned above offer domestic flights only. Nevertheless, you can always fly from a regional airport to an international airport and continue on from there. 

On the other hand, the closest international airport is the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in Dallas. It is located approximately three hours west from the park. 

Please keep in mind there are no public transportation options available from any of the airports mentioned above to Caddo Lake in Texas. You thus need to rent a car from the airport or utilize a ride share service such as Uber. However, I recommend you rent a car so that you have the freedom to explore the park as you wish.

Walking along the shore of Caddo Lake

2) Opening Hours and Entrance Fee

When is Caddo Lake State Park open? Caddo Lake State Park is open daily from 8:15am to 4:45pm. However, please double check the Caddo Lake State Park page on the Texas government website for current information. The opening hours could change at any time.

Additionally, be sure to call the Park Office at (512) 389-8900 in advance if you anticipate arriving late for a cabin or campsite reservation. For example, please call them to ensure everything is set up for your arrival if you anticipate arriving after the park closes at 4:45pm.

Is There an Entrance Fee for Caddo Lake State Park?

The entrance fee for the state park is $4 per adult (13 years of age and older) per day. Children 12 years of age and younger can enter the park for free. 

Furthermore, please be aware that the usage of facilities within the park may require additional fees. For example, you can book a cabin or a site at a campground for an additional fee. 

Example of some of the bald cypress trees in the state park

3) The Best Time to Visit – Caddo Lake in Texas

When is the best time to visit Caddo Lake State Park? The best time to visit Caddo Lake in Texas is during the spring or fall seasons. These seasons generally offer more moderate temperatures compared to the summer and winter seasons. For example, temperatures in the summer can often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit (~32 Celsius). Temperatures in the winter can often drop between 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (~four to 10 Celsius). The first freeze of the winter season occurs in the middle of November. The last freeze before spring arrives occurs in the middle of March.

Moreover, the fall season also brings the changing colors of the leaves. You can thus view Caddo Lake surrounded by colors of green, orange, red, etc. Just try to imagine the scenery; it is quite stunning.  

However, keep in mind that the busy season for Caddo Lake is from March to November. I know, the busy season is 75% of the year. Just be aware that you most likely will encounter more crowds in April compared to January, for example.

How Long Should I Plan to Visit Caddo Lake? 

Plan for at least one hour to visit Caddo Lake State Park. That will give you enough time to walk along the edge of the lake for a bit and to engage in one other activity, such as wildlife watching or a ranger program.

However, please note that you can easily spend a half day or even a whole day at the state park. A whole day might give you enough time to truly explore all the park has to offer. Moreover, you need to plan for more time in the park for certain activities. For example, you need to plan for a couple of hours for an activity such as a boat tour. 

Bald cypress trees along the edge of Caddo Lake

4) Quick Facts

1. Caddo Lake State Park is located in northeastern Texas, and Caddo Lake itself even extends into northwest Louisiana.

2. There is a $4 per person entrance fee for the state park, and the park is open daily from 8:15am to 4:45pm.

3. The state park received its name from Caddo Lake, which occupies over 25,000 acres of swamp. 

4. The park as well as the lake are home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, beavers, and more. 

5. There are a variety of things to do at Caddo Lake State Park, including fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, camping, ranger programs, boat tours, and more.

View from the end of the boardwalk at Saw Mill Pond

5) General Park Information

How did Caddo Lake receive its name? Caddo Lake State Park received its name from Caddo Lake, which occupies over 25,000 acres of swamp. The average depth of the lake is approximately 10 feet (~three meters), yet the deepest portions average 20 feet (~six meters). Caddo Lake’s environment is a beautiful as well as unique sight. It is full of bald cypress trees (some that are even hundreds of years old), bayous, ponds, and sloughs. Moreover, there is Spanish moss hanging from trees all around the lake. 

Pets are allowed within the state park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

What Wildlife is at Caddo Lake?

Visitors can see all kinds of wildlife while visiting the park, for example alligators, birds, snakes, beavers, armadillos, and more. However, I mainly only saw a few types of birds when I visited. Although, I did not venture out on the lake. Those who find themselves on the lake are likely to see more wildlife as they paddle or boat along the water.

Most people probably find alligators to be the scariest animals located within the park. That being said, here are a few alligator safety tips. First, be aware that they are generally more active around dawn as well as dusk. Second, it is recommended to maintain a distance of at least 30 feet (~nine meters) away from alligators at all times. Third, never feed an alligator. Feeding them can not only pose a danger to yourself, but also to future park visitors as alligators will begin to equate humans with food. Fourth, back away slowly if an alligator hisses at you. This is their warning that you are too close; do not wait for a second warning. Fifth, keep pets on a short leash in areas with common alligator sightings, and do not let them get too close to the water.

Grouping of bald cypress trees along a trail at Caddo Lake State Park

How Did Caddo Lake Form? 

Caddo Lake formed naturally many years ago. However, a dam was added in the early 1900s to help control the water levels and prevent flooding. As a fun fact, Caddo Lake is the only naturally formed lake in Texas.

There are a few theories surrounding the formation of Caddo Lake. One legend tells that an earthquake struck to punish a Caddo chief when they did not obey the Great Spirit. The earthquake then led to the lake’s formation. Another theory is that the Red River in Louisiana experienced a log jam and then formed the lake.

Where Did the Name “Caddo” Come From? 

Natives of the area first discovered Caddo Lake back in the 18th century. They were known as Caddo or Caddoans, and thus they named the lake “Caddo”. Unfortunately, the Caddo people were forcibly removed from their home region later in the 19th century by European settlers.

Boardwalk to Saw Mill Pond

6) Things to Do at Caddo Lake in Texas

What are the best things to do at Caddo Lake State Park in Texas? Not only is the scenery quite beautiful, but there are so many other things to do at Caddo Lake State Park in Texas. I am sure you can find an activity that suits your interests. For example, maybe you want to spend the afternoon fishing. If you are not into fishing, you can hike along one of the park’s trails and participate in wildlife watching.

Fishing

Can I go fishing at Caddo Lake? Some say Caddo Lake offers the best fishing in the entire state of Texas. While there are a variety of fish species within the lake, some of the most common are: crappie, chain pickerel, largemouth bass, catfish, yellow bass, and sunfish. However, make sure you read up on the fishing regulations for the lake to ensure you stick within the limits of catching particular fish.

Grab some poles and head over to the lake. You can fish from the shore or from a boat. Visitors are allowed to bring their own boats into the park. On the other hand, they offer boat, canoe, and kayak rentals if you do not have one of your own.

Bonus: if fishing from shore at a state park in Texas, you do not need a license.

Bald cypress trees along the shore of Caddo Lake

Boating, Canoeing, and Kayaking

Caddo Lake has more than 50 miles of water on which people can canoe or kayak. You are welcome to bring your own canoe or kayak. You can also rent canoes from the state park.

Additionally, you are welcome to rent small boats from the park or bring your own to launch at one of the multiple public boat launches. They do not recommend speed or other similar boating types due to the conditions of the lake, particularly the fact it is fairly swampy.

Lastly, the park offers boat tours, also known as swamp tours. The tour guide drives a small pontoon boat around the lake, providing information on the lake itself as well as its ecosystem. There are a few different companies that offer tours of the lake, so you will have plenty of options. Head to the next section to learn about the best boat tours offered on Caddo Lake in Texas.

As a note, do be aware there are alligators in the water. Always remain cautious while canoeing, kayaking, boating, etc. to ensure your safety. Another great location to spot alligators is at Myakka River State Park in Florida. 

Hiking – Caddo Lake in Texas

Are there hiking trails at Caddo Lake State Park? Next up on the list of things to do at Caddo Lake State Park is hiking. The state park holds approximately three miles (~4.8 kilometers) of hiking trails within its borders. There are a few different trails you can explore. First, the Caddo Forest Trail is a 0.7 mile (~1.1 kilometer) loop that passes by the Civilian Conservation Corps Pavilion. Second, the Pine Ridge Spur trail is a 0.2 mile (0.3 kilometer) one-way trail that connects the Caddo Forest Trail and Pine Ridge Loop. Third, the Pine Ridge Loop is a 0.7 mile (~0.4 kilometer) loop.

Fourth, the CCC Cut Through trail is a 0.2 mile (~0.3 kilometer) one-way trail that connects from both the Pine Ridge Loop as well as Caddo Forest Trail. It then leads to the Saw Mill Pond, which is one of the lake’s best viewpoints (trust me, there is a stunning view from the boardwalk). As a note, there are two staircases along this trail. It is thus not considered to be an accessible trail. 

Lastly, you can combine all of the four hikes listed above into one large loop hike. This combination hike is approximately 1.5 miles (~2.4 kilometers) in length. It leads you to both the Civilian Conservation Corps Pavilion as well as Saw Mill Pond.

For some of the best hiking in the entire United States, head to Glacier National Park. It holds trails that lead to bright blue lakes, for example the Iceberg Lake Trail, as well as trails that lead to panoramic overlooks, for example the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail.

View from the end of the boardwalk at Saw Mill Pond

Wildlife Watching

Caddo Lake State Park in Texas has a vast variety of animals within its borders, including reptiles, birds, and other species. First, some of the main reptiles within the park and the lake are alligators, turtles, frogs, and snakes. Second, some of the main birds are great blue herons, pileated woodpeckers, wood ducks, and brown-headed nuthatches. Third, other species include deer, armadillos, beavers, and more.

If you are interested in seeing more alligators, there is no better place than Myakka River State Park in Florida.

Camping – Caddo Lake in Texas

There are a few campsite options within the state park. Check out the Caddo Lake camping page for more information. First, you can camp in luxury at a campsite with water and sewer hookup as well as 50-amp electric at Woodpecker Hollow. Second, you can choose a slightly less developed campsite that has a water hookup as well as 30-amp electric at Armadillo Run and Squirrel Haven. Third, you can truly dive into nature by camping in a tent at Mill Pond.

If you prefer the cabin over the camping experience, there are a variety of options available. Some cabins have bathrooms while others do not. However, do not worry as there are bathrooms nearby the bathroom-less cabins. For the cabins with bathrooms, you can choose between a cabin that fits two, four, or eight people.

Bald cypress trees along the shore of Caddo Lake

Viewpoints 

First and foremost, Saw Mill Pond is arguably the best viewpoint in the state park. When visiting, I walked down the boardwalk along the water to then take in panoramic views of the lake (which had some huge lily pads) and surrounding cypress trees. I also walked a bit along the shoreline and among the trees. I felt as though I had entered the movie “The Princess and the Frog”. 

Second, there is the Caddo Lake Historic Drawbridge. While there are not as many cypress trees in this area, it is still a beautiful sight with the old bridge over the lake. Third, visit the Caddo Lake Dam for a view of the lake as well as the dam that was first constructed in the early 1900s.

Additionally, a lot of the marinas and boat launches hold majestic views of the lake even though they are not generally classified as viewpoints. For example, Johnson’s Ranch Marina and Potter’s Point Marina both offer views of the lake as well as the surrounding cypress trees.

If you truly want to enjoy the best view at Caddo Lake, then you need to visit at sunrise or sunset. The colors of the sun as it rises/sets over the water are almost unbelievable.

Ranger Programs

Last up for things to do at Caddo Lake in Texas are ranger programs. The park rangers offer a variety of different events at the state park. For example, they sometimes lead historical and habitat hikes as well as information sessions on the stars, animals, and trees in addition to other activities. Check out the Caddo Lake events page to learn about their upcoming events.

Moreover, kids can become junior rangers by picking up a ranger journal and explorer pack before heading out to explore the state park.

Bald cypress trees along the shore of Caddo Lake

7) Best Caddo Lake Boat Tours

What are the best Caddo Lake boat tours? Can I book a boat tour on Caddo Lake? One of the best ways to experience Caddo Lake in Texas is to book one of the available boat tours. Not only do you get to have a more intimate experience on the lake, but the tour guide can also offer all kinds of fun facts and historical information. Still not convinced? Well, you might see a few alligators on the tour. In my opinion, I prefer to see them from the comfort of a nice-sized boat compared to from the ground as I am walking around.

Best Boat Tour on Caddo Lake

Link to tour booking: Captain Ron’s Pontoon Boat Tour.

The most popular boat tour on Caddo Lake in Texas is Captain Ron’s Swamp Tours. You do not have to believe just me; let the thousands of reviews speak for themselves. The tour lasts around 90 minutes and operates only on the weekend, specifically from Friday through Sunday. Moreover, the tour occurs on a pontoon boat with a maximum capacity of nine people. You thus can rest at ease knowing you are about to enjoy a fairly intimate tour on the lake.

The tour costs around $30 for an adult with slight discounts for older individuals and children under the age of 16. Moreover, I recommend you book online in advance if possible. Since it is the most possible boat tour on Caddo Lake, it can thus sell out. This is even more of a concern in the summer season due to the increased number of tourists in the area.

Another Tour Option on Caddo Lake

You can also book a half-day private kayak or canoe tour to get an even more intimate experience on Caddo Lake in Texas. The tour includes a kayak or canoe as well as a guide to lead you around the lake, highlighting all of its beauty and wonder. The tour lasts around two hours and costs $70 per person. That is not too bad of a price for a completely private tour!

Link to tour booking: Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tour on Caddo Lake.

View from the end of the boardwalk at Saw Mill Pond

8) Recommended Items to Bring

What should I bring on a visit to Caddo Lake? In addition to the items below, check out my list of travel essentials for women and travel accessories for men.

1. Water bottle: Be sure to bring water with you while visiting Caddo Lake State Park. Water is even more important if you are visiting in the summer, for the heat can make you become dehydrated real quick. Consider a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. They also keep your water cooler due to their insulation – bonus!

Hygiene

2. Sunscreen: While this might not be as important on a cloudy day, it will be on a day full of beautiful clear skies. Walking around even for just 30 minutes can lead to sunburn if you have fair skin.

3. Bug spray: Let’s be honest – mosquitos, gnats, and any other little type of fly can ruin an experience. You cannot truly enjoy an attraction if you are swatting away bugs from your face the whole time. Therefore, be prepared with bug spray or a mosquito repellent bracelet.

Hiking Apparel

4. Hat or visor: It is always a good idea to protect yourself from the sun so that you do not burn and also do not overheat.

5. Hiking shoes: A pair of hiking shoes will be incredibly helpful if you plan on hiking along any of the trails within the state park. 

6. Hiking poles: Bring along hiking poles if you would like a bit of extra support while conquering one of the park’s hiking trails. 

7. Optional – crampons: These are only necessary in the winter months if there is snow or ice along the hiking trails. Crampons are spikes that attach to the bottom of shoes.

Additional Items

8. Kayak: I have an Intex Challenger inflatable kayak, and I absolutely love it. Not only have I taken it out on lakes, but also on rivers. You can thus kayak around Caddo Lake as well as other nearby bodies of water. On the other hand, maybe you want to buy a kayak specifically to promote your fishing hobby. In that case, purchase a Lifetime fishing kayak.

9. Binoculars: Trust me, it is a lot easier to go wildlife viewing at Caddo Lake with a pair of binoculars. For example, you can probably see birds without binoculars, but you might not be able to distinguish the specific type of bird.

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Head to one of the state’s most unique attractions: Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas.

If you happen to be in Dallas anytime soon: Reunion Tower GeO-Deck in Dallas, Texas.