Louisiana: Tickfaw near Baton Rouge Is a Hidden Gem
A raccoon searches for food on a small island near one of the park’s boardwalks.
Compared to other state parks in Louisiana, Tickfaw isn’t large, but its diversity makes up for its size. You can stroll through four ecosystems on a series of boardwalks that keep your shoes dry while experiencing the sights and sounds of a:
Cypress/tupelo swamp
Bottomland hardwood forest
Mixed pine/hardwood forest
Tickfaw River
The trunks and roots of cypress trees popping up through the swamp water create an eerie but picturesque setting.
In Choctaw, Tickfaw means “pine rest.” The park is a restful place to visit and one of the ecosystems includes pine trees. So, the name fits. The park includes a nature center, boat launch, water playground, fishing pier and camping areas, but the real highlights come from strolling on the boardwalks and checking out the scenery.
The boardwalks take visitors through areas not accessible by foot or boat.
Linda smiles because the Tickfaw boardwalks make it an easy hiking day.
Doug takes time to record the Tickfaw experience.
ARLA’S SHOCKING MOMENT
The park had plenty of signs that warned of an assortment of dangers, but Doug kept saying, “Oh, don’t worry about it.” Still, I couldn’t stop worrying, especially after seeing the sign that warned us to “watch out for snakes.” And then, a snake passed us, making me want to run for the car. Doug promised that it was harmless and shot a photo of it to show a park ranger.
Arla points out the signs that warn of dangers ahead.
Arla notices signs about snakes that kept us from leaving the boardwalks.
A black snake slithers by, coming within inches of the boardwalk.
We visited the nature center at the end of our hike and found an exhibit with an identical snake. Doug was right. It wasn’t a venomous snake. On the other hand, I might have failed in my attempt to run from it. The snake was a Southern Black Racer.
PARTING SHOTS: TICKFAW’S NATURAL BEAUTY
“That’s all folks! Thanks for visiting Tickfaw with us.”