The Most Snake-Infested Lakes in Louisiana You Should Know About

LOUISIANA (KMDL-FM) - Louisiana is known for our fantastic waterways, from swamps and bayous to scenic lakes that are perfect for fishing and boating. But with all of this natural beauty comes an abundance of wildlife, including snakes. In fact, Louisiana has over 50 different snake species, many of which thrive around freshwater lakes, marshes, and coastal habitats.

Louisiana's Most Snake Infested Lakes

Where are snakes most commonly found across the Pelican State? Here’s an updated guide to the most snake-infested lakes in Louisiana.

Lake Pontchartrain

Lake Pontchartrain isn’t just one of Louisiana’s largest lakes, it’s also a well-known area for snake activity. This lake is home to a wide range of snake species thanks to its mix of fresh and brackish waters and plenty of prey.

READ MORE: What's the Difference Between Venomous vs Poisonous?

Common snakes found here include water snakes, cottonmouths, copperheads, and more, making it a top spot on the list for snake sightings.

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Lake Maurepas

Just west of Pontchartrain, Lake Maurepas spreads over thousands of acres of cypress-tupelo swamp and quiet backwaters. The dense vegetation and calmness makes it a perfect environment for snakes to thrive.

Water snakes, racers, ribbon snakes, and cottonmouths are frequently spotted along its shores and inland waterways.

Calcasieu Lake

Located near the Louisiana-Texas border, Calcasieu Lake is known for marshland habitat that supports one of the most diverse snake populations in the state.

With species ranging from venomous pit vipers to large non-venomous water snakes, this lake ranks high on the list of snake-infested bodies of water.

READ MORE: 5 Plants That Attract Snakes to Your Louisiana Home

Caddo Lake

Found along the Louisiana-Texas border, Caddo Lake is a protected wetland and one of the South’s most iconic freshwater lakes. While it attracts outdoor lovers year-round, it’s also home to a number of snake species that inhabit the bayous and shorelines.

Lake D’Arbonne

Lake D’Arbonne may be one of the more popular lakes for fishing and camping, but its rich ecosystem also supports a variety of snakes, mainly an abundance of water snakes.

Lake Claiborne 

Although man-made, Lake Claiborne has become a thriving habitat for wildlife, including plenty of snakes. Surrounded by state park land and forested areas, it offers plenty of cover and food sources for reptiles.

Toledo Bend Reservoir

Known for its excellent fishing, Toledo Bend Reservoir also hosts a number of snake species, particularly around the backwaters and areas thick vegetation.