Fontainebleau State Park Is A Hub for Water Activities
Fontainebleau State Park is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring a sandy beach along Lake Pontchartrain and an all-terrain track that provides wheelchair users with access to the water. For a more natural swimming experience, head to the cypress-shaded cove, where you can cool off in the shade after a day of exploring the park’s nature trails, pavilions, and splashpad.
The park is also home to the popular overwater cabins, which were destroyed by Hurricane Ida but are expected to reopen this year. These modern accommodations, each sleeping up to eight guests, offer stunning sunset views from their porches. Until then, visitors can still enjoy fishing off the pier or simply soaking in the sunset views.
Fishing Adventures on Lake Pontchartrain
Lake Pontchartrain is a well-known destination for anglers, offering a chance to catch speckled trout, sheepshead, and redfish. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Wicked Fishing Charters offers a “Kraken Hunt” from April through October. Led by Captain Mackie Bellott, this thrilling adventure takes you to the lake’s best fishing spots in search of mythical creatures like the kraken—or at least their real-life counterparts, such as alligator gar, bull reds, and bull sharks. This catch-photo-release safari is suitable for ages 7 and up, making it a great family outing.
Paddling the North Shore’s Rivers and Bayous
St. Tammany Parish has recently introduced new options for paddlers, whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just kayak-curious. Bayou Adventures now offers single and tandem kayaks at kiosks throughout south Louisiana, including two new locations within Fontainebleau State Park. Simply reserve your kayak, receive a keycode via text, and unlock your gear for a hassle-free day on the water.
Kayaks to Geaux, Torres’ delivery service, caters to groups of up to 14, delivering kayaks to any destination in the parish. Bogue Falaya Wayside Park in Covington is a favorite spot, offering clear river waters, restroom facilities, and a kayak launch. Torres recommends bringing along a cooler, speaker, and portable grill for a relaxing day by the sandy shores. Another popular spot is Cane Bayou, which separates Fontainebleau State Park from the Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, offering excellent wildlife viewing and a quintessential swamp experience.
Family Fun: Splash Pads and Bike Trails
For families, the north shore’s splash pads are a hit with children and adults alike. Madisonville’s new splash pad and playground, which debuted in March at Madisonville Park, are especially popular. The town’s tribute to its maritime history is evident in the kid-friendly playground tugboat, a nod to the legendary craft once used at the nearby Jahncke Shipyard.
For those looking to combine water fun with a bit of exercise, the Tammany Trace bike trail offers three splash pads within 12 miles. Starting at the Abita Springs Trailhead and ending at Fontainebleau State Park, this shaded trail passes playgrounds, vistas, museums, and hiking paths. You can also visit Kids Konnection, a sensory-friendly playground in Mandeville, and the Northlake Museum and Nature Center, which features a boardwalk through a cypress swamp.
Cruising the Tchefuncte River
The Tchefuncte River is a scenic waterway that connects Lake Pontchartrain to the piney woods of St. Tammany Parish. Louisiana Tours and Adventures, led by Captain Mike Jones, offers private pontoon boat charters where guests can choose their own adventure. Whether you’re interested in learning about the area’s history and ecology or prefer a night cruise to spot alligators, there’s something for everyone. For a more laid-back experience, the boat’s amenities—such as an oversized beer pong table, swimming ladder, and float mat—make for a perfect day of relaxation on the water.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding on the Bogue Falaya River
For those looking to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) for the first time, the Bogue Falaya River is an ideal location. Its calm, shallow waters make it nearly walkable, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for beginners. Canoe and Trail Adventures, one of the longest-serving outfitters in the area, offers sturdy SUP boards for rent, available for pickup on the boardwalk of The Chimes’ Covington location. Afterward, enjoy some food and craft beer from the restaurant, or bring a cooler from home for a full day on the water.
For a more guided experience, take a naturalist-led tour along Cane Bayou, where kayaks bring you close to nature. Moonlight paddles to Lake Pontchartrain and back are particularly popular during the summer months, offering a peaceful and unique way to experience the north shore’s natural beauty.
St. Tammany Parish’s waterways offer a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re fishing for the “Kraken,” paddling through serene bayous, or simply cooling off at a splash pad, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So next time you’re looking for an adventure close to home, remember that the north shore’s hidden gems are just waiting to be explored.