As the fifth largest body of water in America (and man-made at that), Toledo Bend Reservoir is split down the middle between eastern Texas and western Louisiana. Covering 200,000 plus acres, this long stretch of water is a popular holiday destination for birders, boaters, anglers and water-sports enthusiasts. Most of the accommodation options on the Louisiana side are located inland and south of Zwolle, midway down the western shore, so base yourself accordingly.

Though camping, when weather permits, is a popular area pastime, there's a decent list of air-conditioned rooms and restaurants if you're after creature comforts, including upscale resorts, to be found. Fishing is the big lure here, but hikers can enjoy easy paths in the region on a pleasant day; cross over to the Texas side for access to Sabine National Forest for bigger swaths of trees and longer trails. Near North Toledo Bend State Park (only a few miles from Zwolle), find a place to pitch your tent close to regional destinations of historic significance, like Ft Jesup and Mansfield State Historic Site.

Leesville, near the southern end of the Toledo Bend Reservoir, is the place to get any equipment or guides you might need on your holiday. Book canoe tours of the Toro Bayou, or try something different with a scuba dive in the reservoir ? and explore sunken little towns and boat wrecks. Depending on the season, there are as many as ten boat launches open on the Louisiana side.

Zwolle is 45 miles north of Leesville and 40 miles west of Natchitoches.