January 20 to February 14, 2014 NOMADS Project, Mercedes, MS

February 15 (Approximately) to June - Gate Guarding, TX or LA.

June, 2014 - Up to Alaska!

September - NOMADS Annual Meeting, Branson, MO



Sunday, May 9, 2010

Hodges Garden State Park

On our day off, Saturday, Len suggested we take a ride into west central Louisiana past Leesville to Hodges Garden State Park. He had been there many years ago. I am so glad he suggested this ride.

Hodges Garden is like no state park I've ever been to. It is centered around a man-made lake. There are cabins and areas for tent camping only. Fishing is allowed on the lake. The cost for day use is $5.00, $4.00 for persons over 62. Louisiana also honors the Golden Age Pass but only for the pass holder. I got in free! The cost for Len was $5.00. To be sure in January, when he turns 62, he will be getting the Golden Age Pass.

For those who don't know about the Pass, it costs just $10. and is a lifetime benefit. It gets you, and usually whoever is in the car with you, into any National Park for free. Some states also honor the pass, Louisiana being one of them. There is also discount camping in National Parks and 50% off in some state parks. Again, Louisiana state parks give the 50% off on camping fees. It is the best $10. we've ever spent.

Getting back to our trip to Hodges Garden. These are pictures of the "Old Fashioned Garden" We couldn't help thinking of our friend Tom back in NJ who is a talented gardener. He would have so much enjoyed this trip.



Along a walkway.


The "Bog Garden"
A view of the lake.

Looking down at a formal garden with the lake in the background.

Some of the many ponds.

I just had to take a picture of the entrance to the ladies room. This is a state park???? In my experience most of them have what barely passes as an "outhouse".


There was also a lovely gift shop. Being the day before Mothers Day, we were glad to find a lovely wind chime for Len's mom.
After exploring the gardens, we drove the perimeter of the lake. There were several hiking and horse trails and lots of picnic areas each with a beautiful view of the lake or garden. This park is a true gem. And a real jewel of a day for us.

1 comment:

Margie M. said...

Wonderful pics, Phyllis. That park sure seems like a great place to spend a few hours or more. Thanks for sharing it with us.

Happy Mother's Day to you.