Where is Caddo Lake State Park,Karnack, Texas?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

Caddo Lake State Park is located in Texas, USA. It lies between Marshall and Jefferson and is situated in the eastern part of the state near the Louisiana border. The park is famous for its large cypress forests, bayous, and scenic waterways.

Caddo Lake State Park Location Map,Karnack, Texas

Top Attractions Inside Caddo Lake State Park

  • Caddo Lake Boardwalk – Scenic walkway through cypress swamps for wildlife viewing and photography.
  • Kayaking & Canoeing Routes – Explore winding bayous, moss-draped cypress trees, and abundant aquatic life.
  • Lake Overlooks – Panoramic views of Caddo Lake and its unique wetland ecosystem.
  • Nature Trails – Forested and swamp trails ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and observing native flora and fauna.
  • Fishing Spots – Access points for catching bass, crappie, catfish, and other freshwater species.
  • Picnic Areas & Campgrounds – Shaded spots for family gatherings, camping, and overnight stays in nature.
  • Caddo Lake Visitor Center – Provides educational exhibits, maps, and information about the park’s ecology and history.

Caddo Lake State Park Facts

Official NameCaddo Lake State Park
LocationKarnack, Harrison County, Texas, USA — on the shores of Caddo Lake along the Texas–Louisiana border
Latitude & Longitude (approx.)≈ 32.7905° N, 94.0171° W
Total Area~9,400 acres (≈ 38 km²) including parklands and water area
Established / Opened1954 (Texas State Park designation)
Managed ByTexas Parks and Wildlife Department
Main Features / AttractionsCaddo Lake wetlands, bayous, bald cypress swamps, boardwalks, interpretive center, camping, fishing, boating, hiking trails
Visitor ActivitiesFishing, boating, canoeing/kayaking, birdwatching, wildlife photography, hiking, picnicking, camping
Wildlife & EcologyFreshwater wetlands ecosystem — bald eagles, herons, waterfowl, alligators, fish species, amphibians, reptiles, and swamp flora including cypress trees and Spanish moss
Significance / NotabilityLargest natural lake in Texas; unique cypress swamp ecosystem; popular for eco-tourism and birdwatching
Nearest Town / AccessKarnack, TX — main park entrance off State Highway 134
Time ZoneCentral Time (CT) – UTC−6 Standard / UTC−5 Daylight Saving
Official Website / Info Sourcehttps://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/caddo-lake

Distances from Caddo Lake State Park to Nearby Landmarks

  • Caddo Lake Visitor Center – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Kilgore, TX – 80 km (50 mi)
  • Marshall, TX – 38 km (23.6 mi)
  • Longview, TX – 60 km (37 mi)
  • Jefferson, TX – 32 km (20 mi)
  • Shreveport, LA – 100 km (62 mi)
  • Lake O’ the Pines – 90 km (56 mi)
  • Atlanta, TX – 72 km (45 mi)
  • Gilmer, TX – 45 km (28 mi)
  • Harrison County Historical Museum – 40 km (25 mi)
  • East Texas Arboretum – 80 km (50 mi)
  • Toledo Bend Reservoir – 120 km (75 mi)
  • Oil City, LA – 100 km (62 mi)
  • Historic Jefferson Railway – 33 km (20.5 mi)
  • Caddo Lake State Park Boat Ramp – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Red River National Wildlife Refuge – 120 km (75 mi)
  • North Caddo Lake – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • East Caddo Lake – 8 km (5 mi)
  • South Caddo Lake – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Lake Bob Sandlin – 88 km (55 mi)