|
For Fun In, On, or Near the Water
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.
In the Beginning
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.
The Fish Are Biting
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.
Daytime Activities
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.
Spend the Night
For the park visitor who wants to stay a while, a camping
area along the lake offers 25 improved campsites, all with
water, electricity, picnic table, fire ring and wheelchair
accessible bathhouses. 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.
Nearby Attractions:
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.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lake Bruin State Park--(Route 1, Box 183, 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
magnificant cypress groves along the shore.
To reserve a campsite or the picnic pavilion, call 1-877-CAMP-N-LA
toll free (877-226-7652).
Email: lakebruin@crt.state.la.us
Next Park > Lake D'Arbonne State
Park
Information, pictures and maps provided by
Louisiana Office of State Parks
|
