Catherine S. Comeaux and her family spent three summers exploring state, national and provincial parks — from Louisiana to Alaska then Nova Scotia and along the Mississippi River in between. This year she turns her attention to our Louisiana state parks to discover the natural beauty of the South less than a day’s drive from home.

Palmetto Island State Park is nestled in the jungle like swamplands on the Bayou Vermilion, south of Abbeville. Both locals and travelers love the park with its well-shaded campsites and cozy cabins elevated between the tree canopy and the understory filled with huge palmettos.

In addition to typical outdoor activities like boating, hiking and lazing around the campsite, the park offers an excellent place to listen and watch for wildlife.

Over 230 bird species

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