Photography by Ben Pierce
Moss-draped bald cypress and water tupelo trees emerge from the mirror-like water, casting ethereal shadows on its surface. Considered one of Louisiana’s most photogenic natural wonders, Lake Martin is the focal point of Cypress Island Preserve, a Nature Conservancy holding in St. Martin Parish. With more than 700 acres—of which about 200 are open water and the rest is cypress-tupelo swamp—the area is a nesting colony and rookery for waterbirds. It’s also one of the most alligator-abundant lakes in the state. During spring mating season, visitors are almost guaranteed to spot the giant reptiles in the water and on Rookery Road (birdwatchers, beware), along the lake’s eastern side. They’ll also spy nutria, large rodents that began populating Louisiana swamps a century ago when they allegedly escaped a fur production plant during a hurricane. Lake Martin can be explored on foot via walking and hiking trails, by watercraft, or on guided tours. Book a boat excursion with one of the local outfitters in the spring to see irises, trillium, and trout lilies in bloom, spy wildlife, and hear swamp legends as you glide through the mystical waters.
This article appears in the Spring 2025 issue of Southbound.
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