From the New Orleans, Louisiana, United States community on Couchsurfing: Bayous/Swamps

Jordan T.

@jordantCologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Bayous/Swamps

Hey, everyone! After years of wanting to visit, I finally have the chance to stay in NOLA for a few days! While I do appreciate things to do in the city, I'm really lookin forward to exploring the outdoors, especially the bayous and swamps. Any recommendations from previous travellers or locals? It'd be awesome if you could specify if it's just roamin on land or if there's a chance of a on-water experience. It doesn't have to be right next to NOLA, but I guess I'll most likely be unable to visit any that are super far. Also...what's the difference between a swamp and a bayou? Thanks - have a good day!

You're Missing the Rest of the Conversation

This community has even more stories, questions, tips, and plans being shared. Join Couchsurfing to read every thread and be part of the conversation.

Geri W.

@MINIKAPIBARASan Francisco, California, United States

If you want to see swamps close to the city, Baritaria Perserve (Part of Jean Lafitte National Park systems) is only a 30 min drive from NOLA. You will need a car though. I'm not sure if it's the right season to see alligators though. I would call and ask to see if they will be out, of if they are hibernating. It would still be cool to see the swamps and the cypress trees with all the Spanish moss. A bayou is basically a river (an outlet of a lake or river). Not all bayous are swampy looking. There are boat swamp tours that you can, but those are definitely gator oriented, although you can see other swamp animals. I have a whole PDF of other suggestions. PM me your email address and I can email it to you. When are you here?

Raymond S.

@RDSWEETNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States

New Orleans is a city, so your desire to see swamps in or near New Orleans won't happen. You may wish to do a tour first and then see if you can revisit the places you toured. But a swamp is pretty stagnant whereas a bayou is a water way, but depending on who you talk to they are the same.

marc b.

@marc49900342New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

bayou - a slow moving river/stream swamp - a wetland that is dominated by woody stem plants (trees and bushes) rather than herbaceous plants (flowers, grasses, etc.) marsh - a wetland that is dominated by herbaceous plants rather than woody stem plants.