One of the best ways to spend a summer day is by supporting local businesses and catching some sun on Cypress Black Bayou Reservoir in Benton. Below are some options to help make the perfect lake day in Bossier Parish! 

As you prepare for the day, if you’re boating, be sure you have the correct number of life jackets for bodies on the boat. You’ll also want to make sure you have plenty of towels and sunscreen to keep everyone protected from those Louisiana sunrays. Once your bag is packed and you’re loaded up, don’t forget to stop by these local businesses to get energized for the day.

If you’re starting your lake day early, swing by Coffee on the Red on Benton Road for some caffeine. In addition to their regular, delicious menu items, they are currently offering summer specialty-themed drinks such as a campfire frappe or a white peach iced latte. An easy on-the-go option for a breakfast snack is one of their bacon and cheddar scones. 

Just down the road from Coffee on the Red, you can stop by Bergeron’s Boudin and Cajun Meats of Bossier City to grab some fried boudin balls or bacon-wrapped chicken skewers to snack on throughout the day. You can also get fresh French bread and sliced smoked cajun turkey breast for a sandwich. 

On your way to the lake, you’ll pass right by Country Corner, a small, locally-owned gas station that has been in the Town of Benton for years. It’s a great place to stop to fill up on gas and even grab some ice and drinks for your cooler. Don’t forget to snag some snacks while you’re there and if you’re wanting to spend the day fishing, they even sell live bait!  

When visiting Cypress Black Bayou, you can choose to go through their main entrance gate where day passes can be purchased for $5 for anyone over the age of five. Children under the age of five are admitted free. Passes can be purchased by cash, check or credit or debit card. Your day pass grants you access not only to the park but also their trails and beach. 

Their beach is a great way to cool off if you don’t have access to a boat. They have picnic tables or you can bring your own chairs. If you plan to bring a boat to venture out in the water, you’ll find a boat launch conveniently located inside the park. To boat on Cypress Lake, you will need to purchase either a regular boat sticker for $20 or annual boat sticker for $80 to have your boat permitted on the water. 

There are two boat launch options outside of the park where you can pay to park and launch your boat for $5 cash. These launches are at 900 Parks Road and 990 Highway 162 in Benton. 

Keep in mind that holidays and weekends tend to be busier on the water, especially during early afternoon hours. Be sure to brush up on your boating etiquette to ensure safety of your party and other boaters on the water. 

Once you’ve spent the day with family and friends catching some sun, be sure to stop by Papa and Company on Airline Drive for dinner. There you can try one of their delicious cheeseburgers, po-boys, or fried fish. You’re able to dine in or call ahead to grab and go.

Summertime is a great time to go out and support local businesses while you have your perfect lake day!