Sam Houston Jones State Park

Sam Houston Jones State Park is a Louisiana state park that encompasses a total area of 1,087 acres of land in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana. Visitors can gain access to the main entrance to the park about 12 miles north of Lake Charles off LA 378 in Calcasieu Parish. 

The protected land was created in 1944 and is managed by the Louisiana Office of State Parks. This land protects tree-filled lagoons and mixed pine and hardwood forest environment. The park’s custodians have always tried to maintain the area in its most natural state. 

Sam Houston Jones State Park initially got its name from a Texas folk hero who was a politician and soldier called Sam Houston. Much later, the park was renamed to honor a former Louisiana governor who had a similar name, Sam Houston Jones. Sam Houston Jones, the 37th governor of the state of Louisiana, was instrumental in setting aside this tract of land for public use.

Some of the unique features that visitors to the park can enjoy include rivers, lakes, and woodlands including the prominent and prevalent bald cypress trees. The protected land also hosts a wide variety of wildlife, including squirrels, rabbits, otters, deer, bobcats, nutria rats, raccoons, alligators, foxes and diverse birdlife like ducks and geese that are frequently found swimming in the ponds. 

In addition to all of this natural splendor, the park also offers a lot of other recreational activities including bird watching, canoeing, camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and interpretive programs. There are also several park amenities including 42 improved campsites, comfort stations, 12 cabins, 20 premium campsites (full hookups), and 19 improved tent-only campsites. 

There is also a picnic area, boat rentals, group shelter, hiking trails, two boat launches, and a playground. Sam Houston Jones State Park allows dogs and other pets as long as they are kept restrained and under the control of a six-foot leash. Dog owners are also expected to clean up after their pooch.