Uncover Louisiana's Best-Kept Secret For Lakeside Fun Without Breaking The Bank

When travelers think of a getaway in Louisiana, they're probably picturing Bourbon Street or bayou tours out of New Orleans — Rick Steves' pick for the most fun city in the U.S. What probably doesn't come to mind is the quiet, scenic stretch of bayou canals near Lockport. But that's exactly what makes this Lafourche Parish town such a gem. Tucked along Bayou Lafourche and surrounded by fresh and brackish water systems, Lockport is a lesser-known haven for anglers, paddlers, and anyone who wants to get out on the water without dealing with crowds and high price tags.

With a population of just over 2,800, Lockport has a laid-back, friendly feel where people still wave as you pass by. But as charming as the small-town vibes are, a main reason to visit is easy access to Cajun waterways and scenic nature spots. Right in town, visitors can launch their kayak, canoe, or boat from the Lockport Boat Launch adjacent to Bayou Side Park for a peaceful paddle through tree-lined canals. From the launch, head east toward Main Street to connect with the main thoroughfare of Bayou Lafourche, or paddle the opposite direction to connect with Lake Fields.

With a storied Cajun and fishing background, it's no wonder Lockport used to be home to the Center for Traditional Louisiana Boat Building. However, damage from Hurricane Ida caused the museum to relocate to Nicholls State University in Thibodaux (about a half hour north). Once it's reopened, visitors can learn about the history of handmade wooden boats — once a primary form of transportation in bayou country. In the meantime, curious visitors can hit the local dive bars and chat up residents for interesting stories and insights about the town's bayou background.

While Lockport doesn't sit directly on a traditional recreational lake, it's surrounded by a web of waterways, including freshwater canals, marshlands, and access to the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. In fact, there are 16 lakes within 20 miles of town, so you won't run short of ways to hit the water. Lake Fields is just over 2,000 square acres and a popular spot for fishing and camping. Catfish, bass, and bluegill are common catches in the area. But even without a boat, anglers can drop a line at fishing spots along the bayou in town.

Just don't expect fancy infrastructure or marinas. You're really out in the bayou here, and Cajun country isn't for the finicky. For example, there's an ongoing issue with the camps around Lake Fields, which are accessible only by boat. Since Hurricane Ida in 2021, the power lines have been down, and it doesn't seem like they'll be repaired anytime in the near future. So out-of-towners may want to make Lockport a day trip from NOLA or post up in one of the nearby towns while exploring the greater area of Lafourche Parish. It's also just over an hour north of Grand Isle, a "sportsman's paradise" with miles of beaches.

Be sure to visit the Lockport Elevated Boardwalk, the only elevated wetlands boardwalk in the area. This short but scenic trail is an excellent way to explore the swamp without getting muddy. The trail is surrounded by native flora and wildlife — you may even glimpse an alligator or a bald eagle. It's also family-friendly and totally free, making it the perfect add-on to any day trip.

Lockport is about an hour from New Orleans, so it can easily be added to any warm-weathered road trip through Louisiana. Part of the appeal is its simplicity, but you don't necessarily need to rough it. If you're staying in Lockport proper, there's an Economy Inn that will run you well under $100 a night. Just outside of town, Bouverans Bed and Breakfast is a restored 1860s Creole home with two rooms available for $150 per night. More budget-friendly motels and vacation rentals are in neighboring Raceland or Thibodaux. Most are within a 10 to 30 minute drive of the best outdoor spots, and prices are much lower than what you'd find in bigger cities or along the coast (usually from $70 to $130 per night). 

Food-wise, Lockport has a couple of spots to chow down — this is Cajun country, after all (and here's the difference between Cajun and Creole). Blackie's Seafood Restaurant serves Cajun faves like crawfish stew, gumbo, popcorn shrimp, beans, and more. La Terraza is a local Mexican food spot, and other choices include the Kajun Twist & Grill and Bayou Snacks and Drinks. Punch's Seafood Market is the place to go for crawfish, shrimp, crab, and oysters. For an excellent po'boy, head further north toward Raceland to stop by New Orleans Style Po'boys.

If you're looking to camp, there are a number of RV campgrounds in nearby Houma, about half an hour west. These spots are best for those traveling with gear and a taste for off-the-grid adventure, and they're great for spending a few days out in nature. While Lockport may not be flashy or filled with tourist attractions, it offers affordable, uncrowded access to Louisiana's natural beauty and Cajun culture.