Enjoy a wilderness experience on the edge of the city
Just across the Mississippi River from New Orleans, Bayou Segnette State Park offers a getaway from the city while remaining close to its many attractions.
“At Bayou Segnette State Park, guests can enjoy the best of both worlds,” said Ginger Theriot, the park manager. “Located less than 20 minutes from downtown New Orleans, the park serves as the perfect destination for those who want to experience the energy and culture of the city while still having a tranquil place to unwind.”
Located at 7777 Westbank Expressway in Westwego, the park covers nearly 700 acres. It became a park in 1980. For those who like big-city attractions, people can get anywhere in the New Orleans area in less than an hour, but it also offers great natural beauty on the edge of a rich estuary.
“Westwego started as just a boat launch in the mid-1700s,” Theriot said. “Fishing became big business in the early 1800s. A few families still live in camps on the bayou and lakes off Bayou Segnette. Just a short distance from the park entrance, shop for fresh seafood at the Westwego Shrimp Lot.”
Stay and fish
The area has hosted numerous major fishing tournaments. From the boat launch, anglers can fish for a variety of both salt and freshwater species. The namesake bayou flows into Lake Cataouatche at the upper end of the rich Barataria Estuary, making it an excellent place for kayaking.
“For those seeking a serene park experience just minutes from the New Orleans metro area, Bayou Segnette State Park offers abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing and peaceful outdoor exploration,” Theriot said. “Visitors can enjoy quiet walks through the park for a unique balance of rural, woodlands and swampland landscapes, all close to modern conveniences. Park visitors might enjoy camping, canoeing, hiking, picnicking or the playgrounds.”
On the park, people can make use of picnic areas and group shelters for larger parties. Overnight guests can choose from multiple lodging options. Relax in a recreational vehicle or pitch a tent in a camping area. For an unusual lodging experience, stay in a houseboat floating on the bayou.
“We offer 100 campsites for guests traveling with RVs or tents, all set within the natural surroundings of the park,” Theriot said. “For larger gatherings, our Group Camp can accommodate up to 80 guests, making it ideal for organized groups, retreats or family reunions. Additionally, we feature 16 floating cabins. Each can sleep up to eight people, providing a unique and comfortable overnight experience on the water. Together, these options allow guests to fully enjoy their extended stay while taking advantage of everything the park has to offer.”
Wildlife and plants
Explore nature on the park and bring a camera. Take a hike on the nature trail. Many bird species and other wildlife call the park or the surrounding waters home. People might spot various waterfowl, bald eagles, herons, nutria, raccoons or alligators in their natural habitats.
“Bayou Segnette State Park offers a multitude of recreational opportunities for all ages,” Theriot said. “Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Louisiana swamps and marshes just outside of one of the country’s most exciting cities. From the park, visitors have a chance to spot plants, trees and wildlife from both swamps and marshland.”
Bayou Segnette State Park does not offer food service, but with just a short drive, park guests can experience some of the best culinary establishments in the world. Nearby restaurants offer a wide variety of dining experiences that make South Louisiana cuisine famous.
The park remains open 365 days a year. For more information, see www.lastateparks.com/parks-preserves/bayou-segnette-state-park. Call (888) 677-2296 or (504) 736-7140.
