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Southern Cypress Swamps: Caddo Lake
Lodge-Based Photo Workshop
Upcoming Departures
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Trip Leader(s)
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Starting From [Block//Current Price]
Single Supplement: +$550.00
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Deposit: $2,000.00
Start/End
Shreveport, LA / Shreveport, LA
Length
5 Days/4 Nights
Fitness Level
Level 1 - What's This?
Group Size
Up To 6 Guests
Highlights
Atmospheric Autumn Magic: Photograph vibrant fall foliage ablaze in reds and oranges, draped in Spanish Moss and cloaked in ethereal mist—an atmospheric combination that transforms the Caddo Lake cypress swamps into a dreamlike scene.
Exclusive Boat-Based Access: Explore the winding bayous and hidden corners of the swamp aboard a private boat, allowing for unparalleled mobility and access to the most photogenic spots at the best times of day.
Bird Photography Paradise: Capture a wide array of birdlife, from majestic bald eagles and elegant great blue herons to colorful prothonotary warblers and elusive wood ducks—all thriving in the biodiverse wetlands of Caddo Lake.
Hidden Gem of the South: Discover one of America’s most underrated landscapes—a hauntingly beautiful, primeval setting perfect for creative compositions and moody, world-class imagery.
If you have any questions about a trip, itinerary, or gear, our Photo Experience Coordinators are available for a personalized one-on-one consultation to provide all the details you need.
Trip Description:
Hidden within the depths of the southern United States lies a mesmerizing tapestry of bayous, swampland, and wetlands awaiting exploration. Journey on a photo workshop like no other as we unveil the captivating beauty of the Southern Cypress Swamps at Caddo Lake.
Often overshadowed by more renowned destinations, this interconnected network of waterways boasts an unrivaled backdrop for fall photography. Picture cypress groves adorned with delicate Spanish Moss, ablaze with fiery hues of red and orange, igniting the landscape with a breathtaking spectacle.
But that's just the beginning. In the Southern climate, autumn gifts us with unparalleled conditions. As ambient air temperatures occasionally dip below water temperatures, an ethereal symphony of mist and fog envelops the scenery. A simple equation unfolds before you: a truly unique landscape combined with vibrant fall colors and atmospheric mist equals an unparalleled opportunity for world-class photography.
Caddo Lake is also a haven for bird photographers with its serene bayous and mysterious cypress forests. This biodiverse wetland is home to an array of bird species, making it a prime spot for capturing stunning avian shots. Photographers can spot great egrets and great blue herons wading gracefully through the water, wood ducks gliding among the lilies, and vibrant prothonotary warblers flitting through the swamp. In winter, Caddo Lake also attracts migratory birds like double-crested cormorants and bald eagles, offering a seasonal variety for photography enthusiasts.
Our boat-based workshop unveils the hidden wonders of the cypress swamps in the most immersive way possible. Cruising on a private boat grants us the freedom to pursue the best conditions and navigate the expansive bayous, revealing a vast territory brimming with exploration.
Join Backcountry Journeys on this extraordinary 5-day photographic expedition, and witness one of the true hidden gems of the United States. Delve into the enchanting world of the Southern Cypress Swamps at Caddo Lake, where every moment offers a chance to capture the untamed beauty that awaits.
What's Included
All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
All transportation during the workshop
All lodging during the workshop
Private boat charters every day
All permits and park fees
Professional photography guiding and instruction
Gratuity for local guide and service staff
What's Not Included
Transportation to and from Shreveport, Louisiana
Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
Lodging outside workshop dates
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenirs and personal items
Gratuity for photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Trip Itinerary
Trip Itinerary
Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1 (Travel Day) (D)
Arrive in Shreveport, Louisiana, in time for an orientation meeting and welcome dinner.
Day 2 (B, D)
We’ll begin with an early morning departure that takes us across state lines to Uncertain, Texas. From there, we’ll launch into the bayou waters on a private boat. We’ll spend 3 hours photographing cypress groves and the bayou. Afterwards, we’ll venture to a nearby state park to explore the swamplands on some easy walking trails. With some rest and food, we will head back out on the boat for sunset, which brings magical light to the swamps. We’ll sit down for a fabulous dinner when we return to reflect on the day and prepare for Day Three!
Day 3 (B, L, D)
We’ll once again head out on our private boat for sunrise and sunset. We will cover new locations and react to the changing light. If we’re lucky we’ll run into some mist and fog on the bayou.
During our mid-day break from the boat, we will reconvene in the early afternoon for processing sessions/image critique at our hotel.
Day 4 (B, D)
We’ll once again head out on our private boat for sunrise and sunset. We will cover new locations and react to the changing light. If we’re lucky we’ll run into some mist and fog on the bayou. During our mid-day break from the boat, we will reconvene in the early afternoon for processing sessions/image critique at our hotel.
Day 5 (B)
On our final day, we’ll set out for one final sunrise session, followed by breakfast. We will say goodbye to the bayou and head back to Shreveport, Louisiana.
Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures, and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and landscape photography, we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions.
Why Choose Backcountry Journeys?
UNPARALELLED
PHOTOGRAPHY
TRIPS
PHOTOGRAPHY
TRIPS
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Explore over 100 worldwide photo tours and workshops tailored to photographers of all skill levels, from iconic U.S. National Parks to Africa's untamed savannahs.
THE BEST TEAM
IN THE
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IN THE
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We're proud to offer unmatched photography trips led by exceptional instructors who not only excel in photography but also serve as expert guides.
WORLD-CLASS
PHOTOGRAPHY
COMMUNITY
PHOTOGRAPHY
COMMUNITY
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Join the Backcountry Journeys Tribe, where shared adventures in breathtaking locations foster lasting connections with fellow photographers in a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
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Verified Guest
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2025
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2025