Nature Escapes in Lake Charles

Take the kids on an adventure to Lake Charles, Louisiana

Skip the theme parks and overly crowded beaches, and instead go for airboat rides, alligator sightings, and miles of marshland where kids can spot the optimistic spoonbills and raccoons from afar. Louisiana’s outback – Lake Charles offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, wildlife, and authentic Southern culture for families looking to unplug and reconnect. Explore these natural escapes in Lake Charles.

Lake Charles is an underrated destination with strong visual storytelling and numerous educational and adventure options for families seeking a fresh take on summer vacation. Why not give them a try?

Here are some fantastic outdoor things to do in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Creole Nature Trail All-American Road

The Creole Nature Trail is a 180-mile scenic byway that traverses marshes, prairies, and Gulf beaches. You can drive or walk the family-friendly boardwalks. Enjoy free wildlife viewing of alligators, turtles, and migratory birds, along with self-guided audio tours from the comfort of your car. While you’re there, have the kids collect things for the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Packs. Please pick them up from the visitor center.

Alligator and Wildlife Spotting

Great places to see these wildlife creatures are at Cameron Prairie & Lacassine National Wildlife Refuges. There are safe and maintained wildlife viewing platforms. Gator encounters can also be viewed from the car or on the walking trails. With hundreds of species participating in spring and fall migrations, this area is also excellent for bird watching.

Peveto Woods Bird Sanctuary

For slightly older kids and budding naturalists, the Peveto Woods Bird Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatching and photo opportunities.

Holly Beach

Holly Beach (The Cajun Riviera) is a low-key drive-on beach where kids can play in the water, collect seashells, and families can have a picnic. This area is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and gentle waves, making it ideal for families.

Kayaking or Paddleboarding

A local outfitter that offers gear rentals and guided tours in calm bayous and lakes. This is great for beginners and families with older kids.

Kid-Friendly Fishing Charters

Charters are a fun way to get your kids liking fishing. Many captains offer short, family-oriented excursions in fresh or saltwater. It’s excellent hands-on education and fun for the whole family – gear included.

Port Wonder and Port Charles Nature Center

Located along the Lake Charles lakefront, Port Wonder is a visionary family-focused destination that opened to the public in April 2025. This family-centric hub for education, entertainment, and exploration features two primary attractions: The Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ Nature & Science Center.

It’s an interactive children’s science and nature center that blends outdoor exploration with hands-on learning. Families can explore exhibits about Southwest Louisiana’s unique ecosystems, providing kids with a fun way to engage with the bayous, marshes, and wildlife they encounter in the region.

With interactive displays, an outdoor play area, and touch tanks featuring native species, Port Wonder makes the natural world feel exciting and accessible. It’s a must-stop for families looking to combine education, adventure, and play during their Lake Charles getaway.

Sam Houston Jones State Park

The nature center at Sam Houston Jones State Park has an interpretive exhibit for kids, nature trails, and playgrounds.

As you can see, there are plenty of nature escapes in Lake Charles for you and your family to dig yourselves into!

Nature Escapes in Lake Charles – Louisiana’s Outback

Take the kids on an adventure to Lake Charles, Louisiana