Toledo Bend Reservoir is a huge man-made lake just west of Many. Stocked with a variety of fish, the lake is well known for its bass fishing and as the site of several fishing tournaments every year. The lake has 1,200 miles of shoreline, with nearby private and public campsites. Boaters should know that the lake is best for shallow draft boats, because a significant number of tree stumps lurk in its shallow areas. Anglers and boaters looking for a smaller and more intimate area should head south of Many to Vernon Lake, considered by bass fishers as a hidden treasure. Fishing in Vernon Lake is best during spring and summer nights.
Hodges Gardens State Park, just south of Many, was once the largest private botanical garden in the country. The park covers 77 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens and wetlands. Opened in 1956, Hodges Gardens surround a lake where visitors can rent boats, kayaks or paddle boats. The gardens, lake and adjacent land was donated to the state in 2007 and is now run by the State Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. The park, a favorite site of bird watchers, has a special bluebird trail with habitats set up to attract the colorful birds. The gardens are open from 7 a.m. to sunset daily.
Residents of Many can often be found in the neighboring town of Zwolle attending one of its many fairs and fiestas. The Tamale Fiesta, celebrated in October each year, pays tribute to the parish's rich cultural history with a weekend of entertainment, arts, crafts and, of course, tamales. In May, visitors can take in the Loggers and Forestry Festival, which pays tribute to the logging industry that's had an important economic impact in the area. The festival includes a parade, a fun run, arts, crafts, food, entertainment and logging competitions.
If you visit Sabine Parish in April, you'll have an opportunity to travel back in time to the Battle of Pleasant Hill, the largest Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi River. People come from all over the country to participate in the annual battle reenactment, which takes place on the site of the original conflict. The battle was officially considered a victory for the Union, but locals contend the North, which retreated after the battle, did not hold the ground and therefore lost the day. Pleasant Hill is 18 miles south of Many.
