Lake Charles State Park recently began its Kayak Eco-Tours allowing visitors to get a new perspective of the park.

The tour takes approximately 1.5 hours to cover the 645-acre lake, said Steve Killian, assistant superintendent at the park. Each tour can accommodate up to eight kayakers.

Throughout the tour park interpreters will discuss the plants and animals found along the shore, as well as the history of the lake.

"It’s education and recreation rolled into one. Our clients can have a fuller experience, see the park from

water and see things from a new perspective," he said.

Killian said he believes the tours will be a highlight of Lake Charles State Park.

"One of the most unique parts of our kayak tour is that you’re out there with nature. The only sounds you hear are the birds along the lake shore, fish flouncing and the sound of your paddle moving through the water. It’s very relaxing."

Kayaks are much easier to use than a canoe, according to Killian.

"They’re real easy, they’re stable and they’re perfect for novice kayakers. Anyone with just a few short instructions can have fun on our tours,"

In the fall park officials plan to expand the Kayak EcoTours to include the Strawberry Rivér.~These tours, Killian said, will last approximately four hours.