Did you know the largest cypress forest in the world is on the border of East Texas and Louisiana? Welcome to Caddo Lake – one of the most magical places on Earth! This is the kind of hidden gem I really love to share. It’s kind of crazy how relatively unknown Caddo Lake is! Yes, it’s a bit remote, but it’s worth the journey, especially if you’re an avid kayaker!
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How To Get To Caddo Lake
If you’re coming from Austin like me, you can either choose to road trip or fly to Caddo. It’s about a 5-hour drive from Austin, so it’s certainly doable. If you’re in Dallas, it’s only 2h30 or so out to Caddo, so it probably makes the most sense for you to drive. If you’re coming from farther away, one option is to fly into Shreveport and rent a car, and then it’s only about an hour over to the lake. This also might be a good option if you’re short on time and trying to make a weekend trip out of your visit!
Where to Stay on Caddo Lake
I recommend staying in the town of Uncertain, TX. You’re not really going to find any luxurious accommodation options out there, but there are plenty of cabin-type properties to rent from. If you’re looking for something quirky and unique, there’s The Shipwreck at Caddo Shores Cabins (formerly Hodgepodge Cottages). This cabin is a former houseboat that’s been renovated into a land cabin while still keeping its boat structure. A super fun, more rustic option to stay in, especially since older kids would probably enjoy the above loft to sleep in! Another great bonus of staying at Hodge Podge Cottages was that they had a few canoes available to borrow on a first-come, first-serve basis at their own dock, so we were able to row out at sunrise for the best photos at no additional cost. I highly recommend finding accommodation options that provide kayaks or canoes free to guests! It makes things a lot easier if you’re looking to get out on the water at first light or for sunset.
Another option is to rent a cabin inside Caddo Lake State Park, or camp there! They have 5 historic cabins, 46 campsites, and screened shelters are available. This can also be a great option if you’re visiting in an RV, as some of the campsites have full hookups available. Also, some of the cabins are ADA accessible!
If you’re willing to not stay on the lake and have a drive over, not too far away is Jefferson, TX, which has loads of amazing inns to stay in, and more dining and shopping options.
Things to Know Before You Go
Cell phone service out there is very hit or miss. Also, you shouldn’t expect wifi to work at your accommodations so plan accordingly! I also recommend hitting a grocery store on the way and bringing your own food, since there are limited restaurant options. Check if your accommodation has a kitchen set up (ours did!) and then you can just cook all your own meals.
Activities on Caddo Lake
Renting a Kayak or Canoe
If your accommodation has its own kayaks or canoes for rent, that’s the most convenient option as it allows you to get out on the water for sunrise. Otherwise, there are several companies you can rent from locally, but their operating hours may vary. You also want to consider what dock you’re going out of, depending on if you’re trying to paddle to specific parts of Caddo Lake. Some rental options include Riverbend Outfitters and Johnson’s Ranch Marina.
The Caddo area has over 50 miles of inland paddling trails, so there’s plenty to explore! Some of my favorite spots along the lake for photos included Starr Ditch and Beer Bottle – really though, you can’t go wrong going down any path through the cypress trees!
FYI, everyone says to watch out for the alligators on the lake, but we didn’t see any. So I don’t know what to believe!
Caddo Lake State Park
There’s also Caddo Lake State Park near Karnack, TX. This can be a great option if you’re looking to camp or rent one of their cabins. You can rent a canoe inside the park or bring your own with you. It’s only $4 entry for adults (or free if you have a Texas State Park Pass, which I highly recommend), and free for kids. While I think the best kayaking trails and other parts of the lake are not within the official state park, I still do think it’s worth a visit. If you’re looking for hiking and walking trails as well, this is your best bet.
Take a Boat Tour of Caddo Lake
There are several options for boat tours of Caddo Lake in both Uncertain and Karnack! Captain Ron’s Swamp Tours in Karnack offers 28-foot pontoon boat tours. Other options include Caddo Lake Bayou Tours and Big Cypress Tours. Here’s a good list of local tour operators!
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