Sherburne Wildlife Management Area wilderness guide
Wildlife Management Area · LA

Sherburne Wildlife Management Area

Sherburne Wildlife Management Area is an expansive natural reserve located in south-central Louisiana, offering diverse recreational opportunities and rich ecological habitats.

Wildlife Management Area44,0004+ Trails
DesignationWildlife Management Area
Total Wilderness Area44,000
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Sherburne Wildlife Management Area

Sherburne Wildlife Management Area is an expansive natural reserve located in south-central Louisiana, offering diverse recreational opportunities and rich ecological habitats.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Sherburne Wildlife Management Area (WMA), located in the heart of Louisiana, spans over 44,000 acres and is a key component of the Atchafalaya Basin ecosystem. This area provides vital habitat for a range of species, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and migratory waterfowl. Established with conservation in mind, Sherburne WMA plays an important role in facilitating outdoor recreation while preserving natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking through its swampy terrain, birdwatching along its waterways, or fishing in its bountiful bayous. The area is historically significant, contributing to the cultural heritage of the region through its traditional hunting and fishing practices. The scenic beauty, coupled with an abundance of wildlife, makes Sherburne a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Field Guide · Wildlife Management Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Sherburne Wildlife Management Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Atchafalaya Basin's watery landscapes offer rich birdwatching opportunities.✦ Home to rare wildlife such as the Louisiana black bear.✦ The Bald Eagle Nest Viewing Platform offers spectacular wildlife observation.✦ Explore remote areas with kayaking in the winding bayous.
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Sherburne Wildlife Management Area

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees required for entry; hunting and fishing licenses required for specific activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Sherburne Campground

Located near the visitor center with basic amenities and easy access to trailheads.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Sherburne Wildlife Management Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Livonia, Louisiana
⌖ 7.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livonia, Louisiana

Livonia is a quiet Louisiana bayou town perfect for paddling, fishing, and exploring scenic wetlands. Its proximity to the Atchafalaya Basin offers outdoor enthusiasts peaceful nature and abundant wildlife in a relaxed setting.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Morganza, Louisiana
⌖ 13.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Morganza, Louisiana

Morganza is a quiet Louisiana town perfect for paddlers, anglers, and bird watchers seeking uncrowded waterways and scenic levee trails. Its proximity to the Atchafalaya Basin offers unique outdoor experiences year-round.

Fall and Winter
Explore Town
Morganzia, Louisiana
⌖ 13.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Morganzia, Louisiana

Morganzia, Louisiana offers access to sprawling bayous and wetlands perfect for paddling, fishing, and birdwatching. Explore quiet nature trails and nearby protected areas to experience the unique Louisiana outdoors.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Oscar, Louisiana
⌖ 14.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Oscar, Louisiana

Oscar, Louisiana offers quiet bayou paddling, excellent bird watching, and rustic fishing in a peaceful wetland setting. Ideal for travelers seeking low-key outdoor adventures surrounded by nature.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Henderson, Louisiana
⌖ 17.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Henderson, Louisiana

Henderson, Louisiana offers tranquil outdoor adventures like kayaking serene bayous, bird watching in rich wetlands, and fishing local waters. This quiet town invites visitors to enjoy authentic Southern nature away from the crowds.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
New Roads, Louisiana
⌖ 17.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

New Roads, Louisiana

New Roads is a peaceful town by the Mississippi River and False River lake, ideal for paddling, bird watching, and fishing. Its slow pace and scenic waterways make it a great spot to enjoy Louisiana’s natural beauty and Cajun culture.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Sherburne Wildlife Management Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Daily History Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Saint Francisville, Louisiana
History TourADV Bookable

Daily History Tour

Discover the fascinating past and ghostly legends of Louisiana’s most haunted home with a guided tour of The Myrtles Plantation. Dive into stories of history and spirits in just 45 minutes. Embark on a captivating journey through the storied halls of The Myrtles Plantation, one of America’s most haunted sites. Located in Saint Francisville, this 45-minute guided tour reveals the intriguing history of the estate, from its founding in the 18th century to its reputation for supernatural activity. As you walk beneath the towering oaks and along the plantation grounds, knowledgeable guides share tales of the original owners, antique displays, and ghostly legends that have cemented the site’s fame. The Myrtles is not just about haunting stories; it’s an educational experience that highlights Southern architecture and historic life. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for Louisiana’s complex history, woven with local lore and ghostly mysteries. Perfect for history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike, this tour makes for a memorable visit that combines education with a dash of the supernatural.

History TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Zydeco Breakfasts and Bayou Bites: A Three-Hour Walking Taste of Breaux Bridge
ADVEXPEDITION
Breaux Bridge, Louisiana
Walking TourADV Bookable

Zydeco Breakfasts and Bayou Bites: A Three-Hour Walking Taste of Breaux Bridge

A three-hour walking tour of historic downtown Breaux Bridge that pairs riverside strolls with tastings at celebrated Cajun eateries—essential reading for travelers who want a compact, flavorful introduction to the town's food and history.

Walking TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Evening Mystery Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Saint Francisville, Louisiana
Ghost TourADV Bookable

Evening Mystery Tour

Step into history and hauntings with The Myrtles Plantation Evening Mystery Tour in Saint Francisville, Louisiana. Discover why this plantation is heralded as one of America’s most haunted homes through stories passed down across generations.

Ghost Tour1 Hour Tour • All Ages Welcome • Most Popular!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Self Guided Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Saint Francisville, Louisiana
Guided TourADV Bookable

Self Guided Tour

Discover the rich history and haunting tales of The Myrtles Plantation on a self-paced tour through this iconic Louisiana estate. Learn architectural details and local lore that set this plantation apart in St Francisville.

Guided TourSelf-Guided Tour of the HomeCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Lafayette Wax N Wine Wednesday
ADVEXPEDITION
Lafayette, Louisiana
WorkshopADV Bookable

Lafayette Wax N Wine Wednesday

Discover a unique midweek unwind at The Bougie Bar in Lafayette, where candle-making meets wine and relaxed conviviality. In just two hours, craft your own candle and savor your favorite drink in a welcoming, creative setting.

WorkshopTwo Hours • All ages welcome • BYO wine!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Private Swim Lesson with Katina
ADVEXPEDITION
Lafayette, Louisiana
Air ActivitiesADV Bookable

Private Swim Lesson with Katina

Build confidence in the water with one-on-one instruction at Diver’s Destination. Private Swim Lesson with Katina offers focused, year-round training in a heated indoor pool for kids and adults.

Air ActivitiesAll Ages • 1-Hour Adult Lessons • 30-Minute Youth LessonsCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
One Hour Walking Tour of Downtown Lafayette
ADVEXPEDITION
Lafayette, Louisiana
Walking TourADV Bookable

One Hour Walking Tour of Downtown Lafayette

Step into the heart of Lafayette with Best Damn Cajun Tour’s walking journeys. Meet locals, taste bold flavors, and experience downtown’s authentic culture in just one or two hours.

Walking TourFor all ages! • Tour of Downtown Lafayette for One HourCertified Outfitter
From$20
Book Trip