Natural swimming hole
St. Mary Falls
Waterfall · Louisiana
About this swimming hole
St. Mary Falls is a 10-foot cascade on Sandy Bayou in the J.C. 'Sonny' Gilbert Wildlife Management Area, reached by the 1-mile St. Mary's Falls Trail. The falls pour over a sandstone ledge into a quiet pool - stand under it, soak your feet, and splash around. Same WMA permit rules as nearby Rock Falls.
Good to know
| Water type | Waterfall |
|---|---|
| Depth | quiet pool below the falls |
| Best season | March-June (after rain) |
| Fees | Wild Louisiana Stamp or hunting/fishing license required |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours |
| Parking | St. Mary's Falls Trailhead; coordinates are for the trailhead - the falls are about 1 mi down the green-blazed trail |
| County | Catahoula Parish |
| Nearest town | Sicily Island |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; remote WMA - check hunting seasons and wear orange when required; slippery rocks; visit after rain for the best flow |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in St. Mary Falls?
Yes — St. Mary Falls is listed as a natural swimming spot in Louisiana. Heads-up: No lifeguard; remote WMA - check hunting seasons and wear orange when required; slippery rocks; visit after rain for the best flow. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does St. Mary Falls require reservations?
No reservations are required at St. Mary Falls based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit St. Mary Falls?
Reported fee info: Wild Louisiana Stamp or hunting/fishing license required. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit St. Mary Falls?
The best season is typically March-June (after rain).