Prien Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Prien Lake |
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Prien Lake and the Israel LaFleur Bridge
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 Prien Lake
Location in Louisiana
Prien Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, United States |
| Coordinates | 30°10′54″N 93°17′21″W / 30.1816152°N 93.2890944°W |
| Primary inflows | Calcasieu Ship Channel |
| Primary outflows | Calcasieu Ship Channel |
| Catchment area | 2,900 acres (1,200 ha) |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 2 mi (3.2 km) |
| Max. width | 1 mi (1.6 km) |
| Surface area | 997 acres (403 ha) |
| Surface elevation | 0 ft (0 m) |
| Settlements | Prien, Louisiana |
Prien Lake is a beautiful lake located in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana. It's found west of the town of Prien, Louisiana, and just south of the Israel LaFleur Bridge. The larger city of Lake Charles is also nearby, to the northeast.
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Discover Prien Lake's Past
Prien Lake used to be directly connected to the Calcasieu River. However, things changed when the Calcasieu Ship Channel was built. This big shipping channel was finished in 1941.
Part of this project included creating the Rose Bluff Cutoff, which is northwest of Prien Lake. This new cutoff made it easier for ships to travel. It also separated Prien Lake from the main flow of the river.
Today, Prien Lake connects to the Calcasieu Ship Channel in three different spots. These connections are on the north and west sides of the lake.
What Makes Prien Lake Special?
The land around Prien Lake is called its watershed. About 36 percent of this area has homes or businesses. Another 5 percent is used for industrial activities.
The lake is home to several important wetlands. These wet areas are very sensitive and provide a special environment for plants and animals.
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality says Prien Lake is important for two main reasons. First, it's a great place for recreation, like boating and fishing. Second, it helps support many different kinds of fish and wildlife.
Fishing Fun at Prien Lake
Prien Lake is a popular spot for both fun fishing trips and commercial fishing. Many types of fish live here. You might catch croaker, redfish, speckled trout, flounder, or black drum.
Parks for Everyone to Enjoy
There are two public parks where you can easily visit Prien Lake.
- Prien Lake Park offers a place to launch your boat. It also has parking and picnic areas where you can relax and eat.
- LaFleur Park also has a boat launch. Plus, it has a beach where you can go swimming! You'll find parking and picnic spots here too.
