POVERTY POINT RESERVOIR STATE PARK
The 2,700-acre, man-made lake that is the center piece for Poverty Point Reservoir State Park offers visitors an outlet for a variety of watersport activities and a scenic backdrop for waterfowl migration each spring and fall.
The reservoir, just three miles north of Delhi in Richland Parish, was created in 2001 as a water resource for the area and outdoor recreation outlet.
The site name is derived from a nearby Native American site consisting of complex earthworks and artifacts. Dubbed the Poverty Point culture, its people settled on the banks of Bayou Macon, near what is now the community of Epps, between 1,400 and 700 B.C. Park guests are only 20 minutes away from Poverty Point State Historic Site for day trips to what has become a focal point for archaeological research since the mid 20th century.
The fish and wildlife species inhabiting or migrating through the reservoir are numerous. Anglers can fish the lake year round for largemouth bass, black crappie, blue gill and channel catfish. The region falls within the Mississippi Flyway for many winged species. Depending on the season, visitors will see cormorants, ducks, geese and pelicans.
Special attention should be given to any Louisiana black bear sightings on or near the reservoir. The eastern edge of the park, along Bayou Macon, contains attractive bear habitat and visitors are cautioned to keep all exterior cabin areas and day-use areas cleared of accessible food products and refuse. Bear-proof containers are provided for waste disposal throughout the park.
Hours of Operation: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday through Thursday. All park sites close at 10 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and days preceding holidays.
Day-UseFishingyes
Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
Full Hookup Sitesyes
North Marina Complex:
The North Marina Complex, off La. 17 on the northwest corner of the lake, features a swimming beach area, boat launch, marina with 48 covered boat slips, concession area, fishing pier and fish cleaning station. The marina complex will be open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. (closing at 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday).
The rental boat slips in the marina complex will be available on an annual lease basis and distributed to the general public through a lottery selection procedure conducted by State Parks. Lease rental fees range from $75 (per month) for those choosing to use the slip for storage only to $150 (per month) for watercraft with overnight accommodations that will be used for overnight stays. Each boat slip provides connections for electricity and water.
Deluxe Cabins 8 available, 1 is ADA compliant, sleeps up to 8 people with 1 double bed, 2 bunk beds and 1 sofa sleeper. Lodges 4 available.
9 Improved Campsites (water and electrical hookup).45 Premium Campsites (water, electrical and sewerage hookup).
Four two-bedroom lodges will each sleep 10 people and rent for $140 to $175 per night and cabins are $120 to $150 per night. Lodges provide full kitchen, bathroom, screened porches and open deck. Bed linens, basic kitchen utensils and dishware are provided with each unit. Visitors must bring their own towels. A covered boat dock is provided for lodge guests on the southwest shoreline across from the lodge area.
Water Playground offers refreshing fun.
The two, four-lane boat launches, one at the North Marina Complex and one at the South Landing, provide access to the water. Both gated launch areas will be open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., including weekends and holidays. A fish cleaning station is provided at each launch area for visitor use.
Boats includes 2 paddles and 3 life jackets.Canoes includes paddles, life jackets.