We love Louisiana, but the summers can be pretty brutal. No matter how long you live here, it seems like the summers just get hotter every year, which means we’re always on the hunt for ways to beat the heat. Swimming is a great way to cool down on a hot day, and the scenic beach at Jimmie Davis State Park will have you wondering why you ever traveled outside of Louisiana to get that summertime beach fix in.

Located in Jackson Parish near Chatham, Jimmie Davis State Park is one of 21 state parks in Louisiana.

Jimmie Davis State Park/Facebook

At just shy of 300 acres, it may not be Louisiana’s biggest state park, but it sure does pack a punch in that space.

Jimmie Davis State Park/Facebook

The biggest attraction to the state park is the Caney Creek Lake, a massive 5,000-acre reservoir.

Matthew Porche/Google

Take your pick: fishing, boating, or swimming. You can do it all on this beautiful lake.

Sloan/Google If you like to bass fish, this is the lake for you. The largest bass in Louisiana history was caught right here in this reservoir in 2016!

If swimming in deep water isn’t your thing, you can always kick back and relax on the white sandy beach.

Melanie Osborne/Google

You’ll have ample space to sprawl out, and the nearby tree line is perfect for enjoying the shade from the pine trees.

Debbie Dillon/Google Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on one of the nearby benches.

It’s the perfect summer spot for families with kids of all ages. The water isn’t too deep, so even the little ones will enjoy splashing around in the cool, refreshing waters.

rtrbrown/Google

The swimming area is roped off, so you won’t have to worry about boaters or kayakers while you swim, which is always a nice comfort.

Melanie Osborne/Google

In between swimming and sunbathing, challenge the family to a game of beach volleyball!

Amit/Google It’s the perfect summer day!

Have you ever visited Jimmie Davis State Park? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

Jimmie Davis State Park/Facebook

Matthew Porche/Google

Sloan/Google

If you like to bass fish, this is the lake for you. The largest bass in Louisiana history was caught right here in this reservoir in 2016!

Melanie Osborne/Google

Debbie Dillon/Google

Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on one of the nearby benches.

rtrbrown/Google

Amit/Google

It’s the perfect summer day!

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Address: Jimmie Davis State Park, 1209 State Park Rd, Chatham, LA 71226, USA