LAKE BRUIN STATE PARK
There are over 3,000 acres of water surface on Lake Bruin, and the visitors to Lake Bruin State Park have access to every acre for incomparable freshwater fishing, superb water sports and fine outdoor living. The 53-acre site was originally established in 1928 as a fish hatchery.
Three large fishing piers, a year-round boat launch, and a boat shed for docking make things convenient for the casual or serious fisherman. Rental boats are available. Largemouth bass fishing is popular all year round, but the best months are April, May, June, September and October. Crappie (white perch) are taken around the piers and mats in the early spring. Bluegill fishing is best in the shallower waters at both ends of the lake.
Water sports, pleasure boating and swimming are also popular activities at Lake Bruin. A special area along the lake with a sandy beach is set aside for swimming. A bathhouse is located nearby. Lake Bruin's day use area offers picnic tables and barbeque grills situated near the lake and adjacent to two of the fishing piers, restrooms and playground areas. A covered pavilion allows park visitors to enjoy their meals whatever the weather. Most facilities are wheelchair accessible.
There are over 3,000 acres of water surface on Lake Bruin, and the visitors to Lake Bruin State Park have access to every acre for incomparable fishing, superb water sports and fine outdoor living. But mere acreage statistics could never do justice to this beautiful, clear oxbow lake that was once part of the Mississippi River or its majestic cypress trees that have stood here since DeSoto explored the river.
Day-UseFishingyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Electric Sitesyes
For the park visitor who wants to stay a while, a camping area along the lake offers 36 improved campsites, all with water, electricity, picnic table, fire ring and wheelchair accessible bathhouses. Also has 12 premium campsites. For those who like to "rough it," a primitive camping area is also available. Tent campers and trailer campers will both find Lake Bruin's facilities second to none, so your stay will be an enjoyable one. With beautiful Lake Bruin as its backdrop, Lake Bruin State Park is sure to please all outdoor enthusiasts.
Water Playground offers refreshing fun.
Three large fishing piers, a year-round boat launch, and a boat shed for docking make things convenient for the casual or serious fisherman. Rental boats are available. Largemouth bass fishing is popular all year round, but the best months are April, May, June, September and October. Crappie (white perch) are taken around the piers and mats in the early spring. Bluegill fishing is best in the shallower waters at both ends of the lake.
The 53-acre site was originally established in 1928 as a fish hatchery. The system of levees which contained the fish can still be seen today from our elevated roadways that wind through the park. On July 10, 1956, legislation was signed authorizing the development of the park. Initially called Lake Bruin Wayside Park, the name was later changed to Lake Bruin State Park.
The park is water-oriented and is widely known for excellent fishing, boating, and waterskiing. The old cypress trees in the lake and beautiful sunsets over the water are special bonuses for park visitors.
Winter Quarters State Historic Site-- (3 miles southeast of Newellton on LA Hwy. 608) This plantation is one of the rare survivors of the ravages of the Civil War, and was the charming home of Dr. Haller Nutt. It was saved by his wife, Julia Nutt, who fed and housed Union soldiers in exchange for the house to be spared from destruction by fire. Located on the shores of scenic Lake St. Joseph, the site features a museum, guided tours and special events.
Tensas National Wildlife Refuge--(Off I-20 via US 65, Tallulah Exit; or off I-20 via LA 577, Waverly Exit) This 57,000-acre refuge of bottomland forest offers hunting, fishing, hiking, wildlife-viewing, canoeing, interpreted trails, a boardwalk and educational programs. A Visitor Center contains brochures, exhibits, species lists and regulations.
Buckhorn Wildlife Management Area--(Access by road off LA 4 and 128 in Tensas parish, 14 miles northwest of St. Joseph) With over 8,955 acres of bottomland hardwood forest, this wildlife area provides numerous outdoor opportunities including hunting, fishing and wildlife-viewing.
Town of St. Joseph--(off US 65 south of I-20 at Tallulah) Located in the heart of cotton country in an area rich in Civil War history, the town is surrounded by wildlife management areas, historic sites, antique stores and other cultural attractions.
Poverty Point Reservoir State Park ? (3 miles north of Delhi/I-20 on LA 17) ? A marina and beach area, along with a fully-stocked man-made lake, makes this an ideal spot for a variety of watersport activities. The site also offers 4 lodges for overnight visitors.
Poverty Point State Historic Site-- (East of Monroe and north of I-20 on LA 577 northeast of Epps)--The site is considered one of the most significant archaeological finds in the country. It has a complex of Native American ceremonial mounds built between 1700 and 700 B.C. A museum and guided tours interpret a culture that once flourished on the site.
Lake Bruin State Park--(201 State Park Road, St. Joseph, LA 71366; 318-766-3530 or 1-888-677-2784) is located in northeast Louisiana, in Tensas Parish. From I-20, take US 65 south. From US 65, take LA 128 east to LA 606 north, then to LA 604. The park takes its name from the adjacent oxbow lake and features magnificent cypress groves along the shore. To reserve a campsite or the picnic pavilion, call 1-877-CAMP-N-LA toll free (877-226-7652).
Enjoyed 2 weeks in June 2021. Beautiful hidden jewel of Louisiana state parks. Park staff, locals and fellow campers very friendly. Very relaxing and remote area
It is one of the cleanest parks we have seen .Met so many old and new friends
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