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Louisiana State Parks

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Cajun Country Region
Palmetto Island State Park
Palmetto Island State Park Gone Fishin © Rose Fontana
6 year old Catherine heads to one of the ponds to catch her first fish ever. And she did
Palmetto Island State Park Good thing its only a statue © Rose Fontana
Cousins camping with Grandma and Granddaddy found an alligator
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PALMETTO ISLAND STATE PARK
PALMETTO ISLAND STATE PARK
19501 Pleasant Road
Abbeville, Louisiana   70510
Palmetto Island State Park is a recent addition to the Louisiana State Park system. The new state park is located south of Abbeville, Louisiana in Vermilion Parish. The state of Louisiana acquired the property for the park in 1981 but did not begin construction on it with the intent of public use until 2002. State budget constraints and other concerns delayed the park's opening until October, 28, 2010.

The park, 1,299 acres in size, is noted for its abundance of palmettos, which form a dense understory in the coastal bottomland hardwood forest that predominates here. Palmetto Island State Park has a visitor's center which houses a multi-purpose room that can rented for meetings, weddings and other social events. A water playground is located nearby. Guests may stay at one of six two-bedroom cabins nestled in the woods or use any of the park's 95 campsites. There are four picnic pavilions and strategically placed picnic sites for visitors. An aquatic pavilion overlooks the Vermilion River. Access to the Vermilion River is provided by a boat launch. Interior lagoons allow canoers and kayakers the opportunity to observe native animal and plant life. Including a new population of Iris nelsonii. A nature trail begins at the park's visitor center.

The park address is 19501 Pleasant Road, Abbeville, LA 70510.

Boating
The park offers a boat launch that provides access to the Vermilion River for visitors who want to enjoy boating, fishing or canoeing. Canoe rentals are also available within the park itself. The waterways in and around this location offer opportunities not only for leisurely paddling but also exploration of diverse ecosystems prevalent in Louisiana's marshlands.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the Vermilion River, abundant with catfish and bass. Canoe rentals are available for a serene experience.

The park's waterways offer opportunities to catch crappie or bluegill fish.

Fishing gear is not provided so remember to bring your own equipment.

For those seeking more adventure, try night fishing under the stars; just be sure you have a flashlight!

Remember that Louisiana law requires all anglers over 16 years old must possess valid state-issued licenses.


Location
Palmetto Island State Park is located near Abbeville, Kaplan and New Iberia

Picnicking
Palmetto Island State Park offers numerous picnic tables and pavilions, perfect for family gatherings or quiet outdoor meals.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore a 6-mile trail, but be aware it's shared with hikers. Helmets are recommended for safety.

The terrain is mostly flat and easy to navigate; however, caution should be exercised due to occasional wildlife sightings.

Rental bikes aren't available on-site so ensure you bring your own or arrange rental from nearby facilities beforehand.

While the park remains open year-round, check weather conditions before planning any biking trips as heavy rains may affect trails' condition.

Remember that night-time cycling isn't allowed in order to protect local fauna activity patterns.

Always stay within marked paths while riding - this protects both riders and delicate ecosystems alike.
Birding
The park offers diverse birding opportunities, with over 100 species spotted. It features a variety of habitats including wetlands and forests that attract different types of birds. Birdwatchers can explore the six miles of trails or use observation decks for viewing. The park's visitor center also provides information about local avian life.

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Abbeville RV Park
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337-898-4042
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Louisiana State Parks

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