If there’s one thing that’s true about Louisiana, it’s that we are one of the most beautiful states in the country. From the cypress-tupelo swamps in the south to the piney, rolling hills in the north, Louisiana has a surprisingly diverse landscape. Here are some of the most staggeringly beautiful places in Louisiana that will always be waiting for you.

1. Jungle Gardens

Jungle Gardens is a beautiful 170-acre botanical garden and bird sanctuary nestled along Bayou Petite Anse on Avery Island. Beautiful year-round, this dazzling display is always popping with vibrant colors.

2. Longleaf Vista Recreation Center

Nestled within the Kisatchie National Forest, you can drive right up to the Longleaf Vista Recreation Center and catch stunning treetop views like this.

3. Atchafalaya River Basin

Providing an essential habitat for more than 300 species of wildlife plus another 100 different aquatic species, the Atchafalaya River Basin is one of the most stunning natural landscapes Louisiana has to offer. The nation’s largest river swamp contains nearly one million acres of beautiful bottomland hardwoods, swamps, bayous, and backwater lakes.

4. Lake Martin

Part of the Cypress Island Nature Preserve, Lake Matin is every nature lover’s dream. Home to countless wildlife and some of the best sunset views around, visitors can view the lake from their car, set off on foot on the nature trail, or rent a kayak and explore the lake from a new perspective.

5. Cypremort Point State Park

For fishermen, there’s no better spot than Cypremort Point State Park. Cozied up to Vermilion Bay, anglers have the option to fish from the pier or take their boat out into the water to find their secret honey hole full of redfish. A half-mile stretch of beach provides the perfect spot to sink your toes in the sand and watch the spectacular sunsets over the water.

6. Honey Island Swamp

If you’re in southeastern Louisiana, the Honey Island Swamp is a picture-perfect spot to spend an afternoon. Clocking in at almost 70,000 acres, it’s one of the largest swamps in the state and is chock-full of wildlife including feral pigs, gators, black bears, and countless migratory birds.

7. Kiroli Park

West Monroe’s favorite park is filled with adventures the whole family will love. Several trails, multiple playgrounds, and a few peaceful lakes pepper the park, not to mention several beautiful gardens to admire along your walk.

8. Holly Beach

Nicknamed the "Cajun Rivera," Holly Beach is great for those days when you want to spend some fun in the sun but don’t want to drive all the way to those Florida/Alabama beaches. It’s also a great spot to snag some seashells!

9. Louisiana Arboretum

Located within Chicot State Park, the Louisiana Arboretum is 600 acres of pure natural beauty just waiting to be explored. Established in 1961, it’s the oldest state-supported arboretum in the country and it’s filled with delightful hiking trails that will take you through the beech-magnolia forest.

10. Lake Claiborne

Lake Claiborne’s 6,400-acres are perfect for the outdoor explorer. It’s a popular spot for fishing and boating, and the state park also featured a little beach area, nature trails, and cabins available to rent.

There are so many beautiful places in Louisiana, where are some of your favorite nature spots? Nominate them for a chance to be featured!