For many families across Southwest Louisiana, including Lake Charles, summer just won’t be the same without a trip to Baton Rouge’s most iconic destination: and its thrill-packed sister park, Dixie Landin’. But now, it’s official—Dixie Landin’ is shutting down permanently, and Blue Bayou will remain closed through 2025.

According to WBRZ, the news comes straight from park owner Sam Haynes Jr., who cited “lack of attendance” as the main reason for closing Dixie Landin’ for good. As for Blue Bayou, Haynes says the popular water park is expected to reopen in 2026, but offered no additional details about the future of the property.

The announcement hits close to home for Lake Charles residents and others in southwest Louisiana who have long made the 2.5-hour drive east to cool off on towering water slides, cruise down the lazy river, or get an adrenaline rush on rides like the Ragin’ Cajun, Flyin’ Tiger, Zydeco Express, and the Hot Shot.

What makes this even more surprising is that the park’s social media accounts were still inviting guests to enjoy the rides just a day before the official announcement.

"Weekends are soooo much fun at Dixie Landin Theme Park. Come see for yourself!" — read a now-cringeworthy Facebook post made Sunday, just hours before the closure went public.


MORE: Learn More About The History of Louisiana's Iconic Theme Parks,


 

Adding to the confusion, all mentions of Blue Bayou were quietly scrubbed from the park’s official Facebook profile earlier in May, raising red flags among fans.

With summer temperatures on the rise and vacation plans already in motion, this news is a major letdown for families from Lake Charles to Lafayette and beyond who traditionally made the trip to Baton Rouge a summer staple.

So, what happens next for the massive property off Highland Road? That’s unclear for now. When asked if he planned to sell the land, Haynes replied, “That’s all I have to say.”

As we await more updates, one thing’s for sure: South Louisiana just lost a big piece of its summer fun. I really hope that there is a way for Dixie Landin' and Blue Bayou Water Park to coexist and reopen next year. If low attendance is the issue behind the closure, maybe closing both parks for a year, will reignite enthusiasm.

After all, absence does make the heart grow fonder. People are in shock right now. In the meantime, it's worth reminiscing about all the good times we've had going to the two parks over the past.

Six years or so ago, In The Loop did a dope tour and review of the parks. To be totally honest, watching this video, I learned a lot about both parks I never knew. Shouts out to In The Loop, it was very informative. I don't know about ya'll but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that they can reopen in 2026. Here's the video, enjoy a brief trip back down memory lane.