Swamp scene with large tree trunk, water, and green foliage. Reflections in the dark water.

Escape to Tickfaw State Park: One of the Best State Parks in Louisiana

Looking for a refreshing and unique spin to your next Louisiana vacation? Tickfaw State Park is the perfect place to escape for a day, exploring over 1,200 acres of diverse landscape, including towering cypress swamps, hardwood forests, and peaceful waterways. It’s not often that you come across a place that allows you to truly separate yourself from the city life and become immersed in the beauty around you. 


Whether you’re exploring hiking trails, fishing in calm waters, or simply observing the critters that call this place home, there’s always something going on at Tickfaw State Park.

Wooden path winds through a lush, green forest.

What is Tickfaw State Park?

One of the best places to visit in Louisiana, Tickfaw State Park is located in Springfield, about 20 minutes south of Hammond. Named after Tickfaw River, this peaceful setting features a variety of ecosystems, including forests, swamps, and marshes. The park provides visitors with multiple recreational opportunities, from hiking and fishing to paddling or enjoying a picnic.

A Brief History

The area where Tickfaw State Park sits is directly tied to the waterways that helped to shape much of Louisiana’s early settlements and trade routes. Before it became a state park in the late 20th century, the land was primarily swamp and forest used for logging and hunting. The park was officially established in 1980, aiming to provide public access to Louisiana’s unique ecosystems.


It’s since become one of the most popular state parks in Louisiana, attracting visitors from all over.


Why You Should Visit

Tickfaw State Park is worth the visit, and here’s why. First, it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle without having to travel far from the city. The peacefulness and fresh air alone provide a welcoming break from everyday life. It’s also highly accessible, with well-maintainted facilities including picnic areas, playgrounds, and a visitor center. 


The diverse habitat here means there’s always something to see, from towering cypress trees draped with Spanish moss to the busy wildlife frolicking about. 

Swamp scene with tree trunks rising from still water. Reflections of trees and sky.

Things to Do at Tickfaw State Park

Here’s some of the activities you can do during your visit:


  • Hiking Trails: The park offers several miles of hiking trails that vary in difficulty. Popular trails include Cypress Trail and the Bottomland Trail, both providing chances to see the lush vegetation and wildlife up close. The trails wind through wetlands and forests, a lovely walking experience for you and your family.
  • Fishing and Boating: There is a fishing pond stocked with bass, bream, and catfish, ideal for a fun afternoon by the water. A boat launch is nearby on the Tickfaw River for those who would like to canoe or kayak.
  • Picnicking: Multiple picnic areas have tables and grills throughout the park for your outdoor meal. A playground is nearby for children to enjoy as well.
  • Wildlife Watching: The park is home to several species of animals, including white-tailed deer, squirrels, and raccoons. Herons, woodpeckers, and warblers can be spotted, so make sure you bring your binoculars!


Animals aren’t the only thing you’ll see, though. There’s quite the plant life here, including towering bald cypress trees, tupelo gums, azaleas, and ferns, among others.

As mentioned earlier, the hiking trails at Tickfaw State Park are a great way to explore all the beauty the area has to offer.


  • Cypress Trail: About 3 miles long, this trail loops through the swamps and forests. It has boardwalks over wetlands that allow you to safely cross while observing the plants and wildlife.
  • Bottomland Trail: A shorter trail, roughly 1 mile, provides plenty of shade, with the occasional glimpses of the river.


Both trails are well-marked and suitable for all ages and backgrounds.



Plan Your Visit

Tickfaw State Park is open daily, with a small admission fee of $3 per person. Don’t forget to bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes to ensure you make the most of your visit. The park’s proximity to downtown Hammond makes it easy to combine a day outdoors with a comfortable stay nearby.

Exploring the Trails

Stay at Historic Michabelle Inn

Unwind during your trip at the Historic Michabelle Inn in Hammond, LA. Experience southern hospitality unlike any other during your stay in one of our elegant rooms and suites. Start your day off right with a deluxe breakfast for two before venturing out to see all that Hammond has to offer. We’re the perfect gathering place for any of life’s special events, with our Pavilion Ballroom accommodating up to 350 guests, so plan your next event with us!


Tickfaw State Park is an experience you won’t soon forget, and it’s not hard to see why. Come and enjoy this refreshing break from the daily grind, and finish your day off right with a stay at our beautiful bed and breakfast. Trust us when we say, within five minutes of leaving the park, you’ll be counting down the days until your next visit.