Chemin-A-Haut State Park

Chemin-A-Haut State Park stretches along the wooded banks of Bayou Bartholomew in Morehouse Parish, in the northeastern corner of Louisiana. The park takes its name from the French phrase meaning “High Road,” a route used by Native Americans many years ago, and that sense of quiet history still hangs over the place. What draws people here is the pace of it: slow water, cypress and tupelo trees draped with Spanish moss, and a level of calm that feels increasingly rare. This is a park for those who want to sit beside moving water, watch herons work the shallows, and sleep under a canopy of hardwoods without much interference.

Bayou Bartholomew and Fishing

Bayou Bartholomew is the centerpiece of the park and one of the longest bayous in the world, running more than 350 miles through Arkansas and Louisiana. That distinction matters to anglers. The bayou holds bass, catfish, bream, and crappie, and the fishing here is consistently productive without the pressure you find on more heavily trafficked water. Visitors can fish from the bank or launch their own canoe or kayak to access quieter stretches. A fishing pier gives bank anglers a stable spot to cast, and the surrounding vegetation holds structure that fish use year-round. A valid Louisiana fishing license is required for anglers age 18 and older, unless exempt.

Camping Along the Water

Camping is one of the primary reasons people make the drive to Chemin-A-Haut. The park has 26 premium campsites with water, sewer, and electrical hookups, plus a primitive group camping area, along with cabins that sleep up to six people. The campground sits close enough to the bayou that you can hear water sounds at night, and the tree cover is dense enough to keep sites shaded even in summer. Tent campers and RV travelers are both accommodated. The cabins are popular with families and book up on weekends and holidays, so reservations well in advance are advised. Camping rates currently include premium campsites at $33 to $49.50 per night plus tax and a primitive group camping area at $35 per night plus tax; reservation transaction fees may apply.

Trails and Wildlife Viewing

The park has a modest trail system that winds through bottomland hardwood forest. These are not strenuous trails, they are more suited for easy walking and wildlife observation than any kind of challenge. The terrain is flat, and the paths stay close to the water for much of their length. That proximity to the bayou makes them excellent for spotting birds. Wood ducks, egrets, great blue herons, and various warblers are common, particularly during spring and fall migration. White-tailed deer are frequently seen in the early morning and evening hours. The combination of water, edge habitat, and mature forest makes this one of the better spots for casual birding in northeast Louisiana. Binoculars are worth bringing.

Swimming and Day Use

The park has a swimming pool and swimming complex, generally open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with modified schedules after August 1 and maintenance closures. There is also a picnic area with covered shelters, grills, and tables suitable for family gatherings. The day-use areas are well maintained and have restroom facilities nearby. Visitors who are not camping often come simply for a few hours by the water, and the park is sized and staffed in a way that keeps things from feeling overcrowded.

Pet Policy

Pets are welcome at Chemin-A-Haut State Park and must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Pets and dogs must be leashed, caged, or crated; dogs may stay only in designated dog-friendly cabins under the state park policy and are not allowed in non-designated cabins, swimming areas, group camps, or other enclosed structures except for service animals. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals. Given the proximity to water and the wildlife present throughout the park, keeping dogs leashed and under close control is especially important here.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Alligators are present in Bayou Bartholomew and may be seen along the water’s edge throughout the park. They are wild animals and should never be approached, fed, or disturbed in any way. Keep children and pets away from the water’s edge, particularly in the early morning and evening when alligators tend to be more active.

Venomous snakes, including cottonmouth water moccasins, live in and around the bayou and along wooded trails. Cottonmouths are frequently found near water and may be encountered on the bank or partially submerged near the shoreline. Watch where you step, particularly around logs, rocks, and dense vegetation. Wearing closed-toe shoes and long pants on the trails reduces risk considerably.

Mosquitoes are heavy near the bayou, especially from spring through fall. They are not just an annoyance here but can be a genuine deterrent to enjoying the park without preparation. Bring a quality insect repellent and apply it before heading outside. Lightweight long-sleeved clothing helps as well. Early mornings and evenings tend to be the worst times for mosquito activity.

Practical Information

Chemin-A-Haut State Park is located at 14656 State Park Road, Bastrop, Louisiana 71220. Bastrop is the nearest town, approximately 10 miles south of the park. The park is about 10 miles north of Bastrop and is accessed from the U.S. Highway 425 area via State Park Road and park access roads. Use approximate coordinates 32.91, -91.85.

Day use entry is $3 per person. Admission is free for seniors 62 and older and for children 3 and under. Camping rates currently include premium campsites at $33 to $49.50 per night plus tax and a primitive group camping area at $35 per night plus tax; reservation transaction fees may apply, and cabin rentals are available at higher rates. Reservations can be made through the Louisiana Office of State Parks reservation system. The park is open year-round, though summer brings high heat and humidity along with significant mosquito activity. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions and the best wildlife viewing.