description Caddo Lake Overview
Caddo Lake is a lake and wetland complex spanning the Texas and Louisiana border. It is characterized by bayous, shallow open water, extensive bald cypress stands, aquatic plants, and trees draped with Spanish moss, creating habitat for fish, waterfowl, reptiles, and mammals. Portions of the lake are protected by state and federal conservation areas, and its wetlands support boating, fishing, paddling, wildlife observation, and ecological research.
insights Ranking position
Caddo Lake ranks #16 of 108 in the Swamp ranking, behind Peace-Athabasca Delta, ahead of Pripyat Marshes.
help Caddo Lake FAQ
Is Caddo Lake in Texas or Louisiana?
It spans the Texas-Louisiana border, with connected bayous and wetlands extending across both states. Caddo Lake State Park is on the Texas side along Big Cypress Bayou, several miles upstream from the main lake.
Can you kayak through the cypress trees at Caddo Lake?
Yes. Marked and unmarked paddling routes wind through bald cypress, water tupelo, bayous, and shallow open water. Navigation can be confusing away from established routes, so a map, GPS, or local guide is useful.
Is Caddo Lake a natural lake or a reservoir?
Caddo is commonly described as one of Texas's few substantial natural lakes, although dams and other alterations have changed its water level and shape. A dam built near Mooringsport, Louisiana, in the early twentieth century enlarged the existing lake and wetland.
Why is Caddo Lake internationally protected?
Caddo Lake was designated a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 1993. Its flooded cypress habitat and unusually rich aquatic biodiversity make it significant beyond the Texas-Louisiana region.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
