2 minute read
Swamp Adventures
Gators, Wildlife and Bayou Beauty Await.
As the weather cools and the cypress trees trade lush green for golden hues, Honey Island Swamp transforms into a breathtaking fall and winter wonderland. Nestled in the Slidell/Pearl River area of St. Tammany, this protected stretch of nearly 70,000 acres offers a peaceful escape into nature’s quieter, cooler season. With much of the swamp located within the Pearl River Wildlife Management Area, the scenery feels even more untouched — the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.
Cooler temperatures often mean fewer bugs, crisp air and a different rhythm of wildlife activity. Alligators may still make an appearance on sunny days, basking along the banks or gliding just beneath the water’s surface. Eagles soar overhead, great blue herons wade in the shallows and pileated woodpeckers echo through the trees. You may even catch glimpses of deer or wild boar venturing closer to the water's edge.
Several local tour operators offer guided excursions year-round, making fall and winter an ideal time to experience the swamp’s peaceful beauty without the summer crowds. Knowledgeable guides from Dr. Wagner’s Honey Island Swamp Tours — part of the Cajun Encounters Tour Co. family — along with New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours and Pearl River Kayak Tours will lead you deep into the bayou, sharing insights about the swamp’s unique ecosystem and wildlife. Most tours last around two hours — advanced reservations are highly recommended. Grab your camera and get ready to discover Honey Island Swamp’s wild wonders this fall and winter!
Cooler temperatures often mean fewer bugs, crisp air and a different rhythm of wildlife activity.
