Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge

Cameron Prairie sprawls across 26,000 acres of coastal marsh, rice fields, and prairie potholes about 25 miles southeast of Lake Charles. The refuge features a 3-mile wildlife drive that’s passable in any vehicle during dry conditions, plus several primitive camping spots along levee roads accessible to high-clearance rigs. Peak waterfowl season runs November through February when the place comes alive with ducks, geese, and wading birds.

Access the wildlife drive from Highway 27 near Bell City. The levee roads can get soft after heavy rain, and some areas flood during high water events. No facilities beyond a few pit toilets, so come prepared. The refuge headquarters on Highway 27 has maps and current road conditions.

Coastal marsh refuge with primitive camping access