Big Lake Equals Big Fun in Toledo Bend Lake Country
From world-class fishing to autumn festivals, pristine nature trails to fabulous cuisine, the Toledo Bend Lake Country offers spirited autumn fun.
Catch Big Fish and Sleep Under Big Starry Skies
The cornerstone in Toledo Bend is, of course, the lake that gives the region its name—stunning Toledo Bend Reservoir. Ranked the #1 Best Bass Lake in the Nation by Bassmaster Magazine for two consecutive years, Toledo Bend is pure joy for serious and recreational anglers. Enjoy world-class fishing with an experienced guide or on your own. Numerous marinas, boat launches, piers and fish-cleaning stations make life easy when you’re eager to haul in those lunkers.
On the lake’s northern shores, enjoy an overnight getaway at lush and lovely North Toledo Bend State Park. The park’s comfortable accommodations include rustic log cabins with cozy fireplaces as well as glamping tents outfitted with comfy queen-size memory foam mattresses. Two 18-hole disc golf courses, a corn hole tournament area and beach volleyball court provide plenty of distractions for competitive campers. There’s also a well-equipped RV park for fans of the open road. North Toledo Bend State Park boasts ten miles of multi-purpose trails, including the Dogwood Nature Walk, a one-and-a-half mile loop with interpretative information about this mixed pine and hardwood upland forest; and a longer four-mile trail that's just right for hikers and bikers looking for fun in the piney woods.
Toledo Bend’s south shore features the equally gorgeous South Toledo Bend State Park, also home to cabins, glamping tents and RV hookups. The park also features an ATV off-road trail as well as nature trails for spotting native and migratory birds. Wake up to soft morning breezes off the water, and the sounds of birds calling in the woods that surround this serene, family-friendly escape.
Swing Big, and Savor Big Flavors
Ready to hit the links? The Cypress Bend Golf and Conference Resort’s famed golf course reopens this Labor Day after a multi-million-dollar renovation. Known as the ‘crown jewel’ of the Audubon Golf Trail, the nationally recognized 18-hole championship golf course features breathtaking views of Toledo Bend Lake and challenging holes to test your will and skill. Book a weekend at the resort, enjoy a few rounds of golf and the spa and sample fine Southern cuisine overlooking the 18th hole in the Cypress Bend Dining Room.
When it comes to dining, you’ll have a hard time choosing what to eat among the many local dining options. Toledo Bend Lake Country is home to fresh seafood, Cajun and Creole cuisine and some of the best road food you’ll find anywhere. At breakfast or lunchtime, stop at The Bend Café for popular menu items including a French Toast Breakfast, or their heroically sized muffaletta. Save time (and room) to explore the Gas Station Eats Trail for boudin balls, cracklins and blissfully simple burgers that sing with flavor.
Pass a Good Time at Big Fall Festivals
Louisiana is festival heaven, and Toledo Bend Lake Country stands out for its lively fall festivals celebrating regional food and culture. Start with the Sabine Parish Fair & Rodeo, held every year on the last full week of September. This old-fashioned gathering features a carnival midway with rides and games, as well as heart-stopping rodeo events, arts and crafts, food and live music. To get a taste of the area—literally—visit the 47th annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, held October 12–14. The iconic event celebrates the area’s Spanish and Native American heritage as expressed through the tamale, Zwolle’s beloved official local dish. Dine on an endless supply of pork tamales, while enjoying live music, rides, a tamale eating contest, the crowning of the Tamale Fiesta Festival Queen and more. The Sabine Freestate Festival, held November 3–5, marks the time in Louisiana’s history when the area was declared neutral ground between Spain & the U.S. The festival is an opportunity to experience historic reenactments, chainsaw carving, live music, a parade and more. Then, get ready to welcome the magic of the Christmas season at the Winter Wonderland of Lights, when thousands of twinkling lights are on display at Cypress Bend Park from November 24 to December 31.
Big fall fun awaits you in Toledo Bend Lake Country. Book your fall getaway now by visiting ToledoBendLakeCountry.com.