One of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country is right in our own backyard, and it's just a paradise for nature lovers. Stretching for over 140 miles from Simmesport to the Gulf of Mexico, the Atchafalaya Basin is the nation’s largest river swamp, and we are lucky enough to have it right in our backyard. People travel from all over the world to see it, and it’s no wonder why it's considered one of the most beautiful places in the US and one of the greatest natural wonders in the US:

Located in south-central Louisiana, the Atchafalaya Basin, or Atchafalaya Swamp is a stunning combination of wetlands and river deltas where the Atchafalaya River and the Gulf of Mexico converge.

The swamp is compromised of about 70% forested habitat and about 30% marsh and open water.

Known for its cypress-tupelo swamps, the Atchafalaya has the largest contiguous tract of coastal cypress in the United States.

Not only that, but it’s also home to the largest nesting concentration of bald eagles in the southern United States.

Next time you find yourself on Atchafalaya Basin Bridge, keep your eyes peeled and you might catch a glimpse of this majestic bird overhead.

It’s larger than the Florida Everglades, and home to 65 different species of reptiles and amphibians, over 250 species of birds, and more than 10 different species of fish.

Not to mention all of your other swamp critters like nutria, crawfish, fox, beaver, and even the Louisiana black bear. It’s a wildlife enthusiast's paradise!

Even though the alligator is probably the most common sighting in the Atchafalaya, if you're lucky (and patient) you might have the rare opportunity to see a black bear or even a bobcat.

One of the best ways to see the swamp up close is by taking a swamp tour.

These boats will have you zipping through the swamps, mingling with the cypress knees and getting a unique perspective at one of Louisiana’s most beautiful landscapes.

There are a few different tours: pontoon boats, airboats, and paddle tours. Pontoon boats are larger vessels that cruise around pretty slowly and give you all the time in the world to soak in those views. Airboats are much faster and they don't require deep waters to navigate, so they can zip through shallow spots with ease, giving you the chance to traverse into areas that other boats just can't. Paddle tours are where you'll get your own kayak/canoe and paddle around with a guide.

While you're in the heart of Cajun Country, be sure to stop by the Atchafalaya Welcome Center.

You'll learn more about the history and importance of this crucial river swamp, plus have the opportunity to purchase some local foods including jams, jellies, cookbooks and more.

You'll be cookin' up your own gumbo at home in no time.

For more information about this picture-perfect swamp, check out the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area's website and give them a follow on Facebook.

Have you ever explored the Atchafalaya River Basin? Let us know!

Check out some of our favorite natural areas in Louisiana for more outdoor adventures.