Caddo Lake State Park
Things to Do
Thick bald cypress and a tangle of aquatic plants thrive in the waters at Caddo Lake State Park. Because the vegetation is so lush, much of the lake is really a maze of sloughs, bayous and ponds. The park affords excellent access to the diverse fishing in Texas. Also popular are the park's quaint cabins, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Activities enjoyed by visitors include camping, hiking, paddling trails, picnicking, nature study, fishing and boating.
- Detailed fishing and lake information for Caddo Lake
- Alligators live in the park;read our alligator safety tips.
Equipment Rentals
Canoe rentals are available year-round from the park headquarters. Jon boat rentals are available at Crip’s Camp Marina in Uncertain, Texas, approximately five miles east of the park entrance on FM 2198.
Ranger Programs
At park headquarters, discover the colorful history of the area, including tales of Caddo Indians, the romantic steamboat era, the rise and fall of pearl hunting, Prohibition and moonshine, the Great Depression, and park development after World War II. The park offers a variety of educational opportunities; check the calendar for upcoming events or contact the park for special tours.
Get more information on the Civilian Conservation Corps, which helped develop this park and numerous others over 70 years ago, by visiting our CCC page that includes the interactive online exhibits and education resource, “The Look of Nature: Designing Texas State Parks During the Great Depression” and “A New Deal for Texas Parks.”
Area Attractions
Nearby attractions include Starr Family State Historic Site in Marshall; Karnack, the childhood home of Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson; and the old city of Jefferson, famous as the commercial center of northeast Texas during the first half of the 19th century.
Boat tours are offered by a number of operators on the lake: Shady Glade Marina, Motel and Restaurant (903) 789-3295; Caddo Lake Steamboat Company (903) 789-2238; and Jefferson Landing Riverboat (903) 665-2222; Johnson’s Ranch Marina (903) 789-3213; Crip’s Camp Marina (903) 789-3233. Schedules are dependent on the weather.
Historic Jefferson Tour Headquarters provides assistance with general information and tours for Jefferson and Caddo Lake, including riverboat excursions, horse-drawn tours, home tours, city trolley tours, train rides, horseback riding, souvenirs, gifts and steamboat tours on Caddo Lake. 222 E. Austin St., Jefferson, Texas 75657; (903) 665-1665.
Marion County Chamber of Commerce - (903) 665-2672; Marshall Chamber of Commerce - (903) 935-7868; Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau - (800) 551-8682.
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