Located in western Louisiana on the border with Texas, South Toledo Bend State Park will give you a glimpse of some of the finest natural wonders in the South. The park offers stunning waterfront views of the scenic Toledo Bend Reservoir and a wide variety of local wildlife.
The park is famous for its bass fishing, but you’ll find plenty more to keep you and your family busy throughout your trip. Whether you want to hike, bike, or boat, there are countless ways for you to explore all that the park has to offer. Enjoy spectacular views of the water from one of the many bluffs throughout the park, and while you're exploring, keep an eye out for one of the park’s most famous visitors: the bald eagle. They come to nest in the park, so you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse. You can also take a walk on the park’s Nature Trail and learn more about the local wildlife.
Whether you’re staying for the day or for the week in your RV, you’ll find everything you and your family need at South Toledo Bend State Park. The park's campground boats over 50 RV and trailer sites and there are some tent-only sites and cabins available as well.
Located on the border between Texas and Louisiana, South Toledo Bend State Park is within driving distance of multiple major cities in both states. Alexandria, Louisiana, is just over an hour to the east, and Beaumont, Texas, is under two hours to the southwest. No matter which direction you are coming from or what kind of vehicle you're driving, you'll find it easy to reach the park.
Major routes like US-171, State Highway 87, and State Highway 8 all surround the park, and although a few gradual inclines and curves may be present along the way, even RVers should have no trouble navigating these well-maintained roads. If you need to grab supplies or gas up the motorhome before entering the park, the nearby town of Toledo is a good stopping point. Once you’ve reached the park, getting around is easy. There are no RV restrictions, so you’ll be able to drive around easily within the park.
The RV campground is located on the east side of the park, and if you're not staying overnight you'll find plenty of parking near the boat launch, the Visitor Center, and the campground.
There are 55 campsites available at South Toledo Bend State Park, many of which feature views of the water. All of the sites are located to the west of the gatehouse in one campground near the park’s beach. Pets are allowed at all of the campsites, although they may not be brought into any of the cabins or lodges.
There’s a wide variety of options for campsites, depending on the amenities that you require and the size of your RV or trailer. The maximum length of any trailer or RV is 110 feet, so there’s plenty of room for even the largest vehicles. All of the campsites have electrical and water hookups, and some are ADA-accessible.
The campsites can be booked for a maximum of 14 consecutive days. All reservations must be made at least a day in advance and can be made up to 13 months before your trip. It is recommended that you book well in advance, especially if you are planning on visiting during peak season, which runs from April through September.
If you'd like to get out of the RV for a night or two during your time at South Toledo Bend State Park, then consider renting one of the cabins. There are a total of 19 cabins available, all of which can sleep up to eight people.
Guests will find all the basics provided, including heat and air conditioning, electricity, a fully functional kitchen, and indoor plumbing including bathrooms and showers. There are also some modern amenities in each cabin to make your stay extra special, including a wood-burning fireplace, a screened-in porch, and a television. All guests will need to bring is food and any additional supplies they may want or need.
The cabins are open year-round, with reservations available up to 13 months in advance. Guests should note that the cabins all require a moderate walk, and there is no direct vehicle access available.
Whether you’re a pro bird watcher or just bought your first pair of binoculars, there’s plenty for you to see at South Toledo Bend State Park. Dozens of regional species populate the park, giving you another way to enjoy your hikes. The park is a nesting site for the bald eagle, so you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one of the world’s most famous birds.
The birds you will see vary seasonally. Consider bringing a field guide along in the travel trailer to learn about some of the species that inhabit the park and what you should look out for.
There’s a lot more for you to do during your RV camping trip to South Toledo Bend State Park than fishing. Enjoy one of the many trails leading through the park for a panoramic view of the Toledo Bend Reservoir. Hike up to one of the bluffs that overlook the reservoir for a view of the water. The Lakeview Hiking Trail takes you on a walk along the shores of the reservoir. It also features a boardwalk where you can fish and enjoy the park’s wildlife. Hiking is excellent year-round but is at its best in spring and fall when the temperature is in the perfect range.
The Toledo Bend Reservoir is known for its competitive bass fishing, drawing in anglers from all over the country. But you don’t need to be a pro to have a good time out on the lake. You’ll find a variety of species, such as largemouth bass, bream, catfish, and white perch any time you take an RV visit.
Getting your boat out onto the water is easy with the two-lane boat ramp located at the center of the park. Fishing is excellent year-round, although peak seasons for different fish species will vary. In general, you’ll have more luck fishing between the months of April and September.
Those looking to get out of the RV and reconnect with nature can hunker down at one of the five tent-only sites available at South Toledo Bend State Park. The tent sites are located on a bluff overlooking the reservoir and require a short hike to access. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, and restrooms with showers can be found in the main campground nearby. These pet-friendly sites are open year-round, with reservations available up to 13 months in advance.
A camping trip to South Toledo Bend State Park wouldn't be complete without spending some time on the reservoir. This large body of water is best seen by boat, with canoes, kayaks, charter boats, and fishing boats all proving popular. If you didn't tow your own boat along behind the Sprinter, you will find plenty of rentals available along the reservoir. If you did bring your own vessel, there is a two-lane boat ramp available near the center of the park, with plenty of parking nearby for your trailer.
If you'd like to take the trails at a faster pace during your RV vacation to South Toledo Bend State Park, then don't hesitate to bring your ATVs along. There are nine designated ATV trails in and around the park, each of which is set up in a loop format. The trails are all one-way, meaning you'll go in one trailhead and exit from another. Trails range in length and difficulty, making it easy to find a route that is right for you.
Sometimes you just want to take things slow. If you’ve had enough of the water and trails for one day, consider a picnic near the scenic Visitor Center. There are multiple picnic tables, so there’s plenty of room even during peak season. You’ll have views of the water as you eat and relax. Once you’re done, you can head inside to learn more about the local wildlife or walk along the nature trail.
If you are packing your bike along in the rig, you are in good shape at South Toledo Bend State Park. Take a spin around the park by bike to enjoy the waterfront views at a slightly faster pace. The park’s roads are open to bikes year-round, so you’ll be able to enjoy a ride no matter the season.
If you want to ride in the park, you’ll have to bring your own bike, as rentals are not available. And always be aware of hikers and other vehicles, as roads are shared with both.
If you're searching for some information about the park, or just hoping to get the kids out of the Class A and more interested in nature, you’ll find information on the local wildlife, as well as other activities in and around the park at the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center can also be rented out for events, so you can host get-togethers or barbecues.
Once you’ve soaked up enough information on the local wildlife, head out on the nearby 3,000-foot nature trail to get a first-hand look at some of Louisiana's natural wonders. The trail is surfaced, so it is accessible to just about anyone.
