Kisatchie National Forest is the only national forest in Louisiana, spanning over 6,04,000 acres in the central and northern parts of the state. You can explore hiking trails, enjoy boating on Lake Kincaid, and see the national longleaf pines or 'super' trees, some of which are more than 200 years old. You can rent an RV from rentals around the forest through online portals.
Camping in Kisatchie National Forest
If you are interested in Kisatchie National Forest RV camping, Kisatchie National Forest has 30+ campground camping areas, several of which are RV-friendly. You can also explore campgrounds around the forest for camping near Kisatchie National Forest.
Campgrounds in Kisatchie National Forest
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River Cities RV Park
River Cities RV Park is a campground near Kisatchie State Forest that offers 38 full hookup sites in total. The premises is gated and fully fenced, giving guests top-notch safety and peace of mind. Moreover, the RV park is located conveniently next to an RV Service Center you can visit if you need any repairs. Some featured amenities at this campground include laundry service, a vending center, and free Wi-Fi access. The daily rate is $40, and the weekly rate is $200. The address of River Cities RV Park is 7213 LA-1, Boyce, LA 71409.
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Alexandria RV Park
Alexandria RV Park is a central Louisiana campground that offers a friendly atmosphere in a gorgeous setting. The grounds include relaxing green pastures and towering trees that serve as a perfect backdrop after your adventures in the national forest. You can look forward to clean bathrooms, hot showers, laundry service, and fire pits during a stay here. The daily rate is $30, and the weekly rate is $160. All sites here come equipped with water, electrical, and sewer. The address of Alexandria RV Park is 6643 LA-1, Boyce, LA 71409.
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Hidden Treasure RV Resort LLC
Hidden Treasure RV Resort LLC is a wonderful campground located on the majestic Cotile Lake. It offers 24 sites, and they all come equipped with a full hook-up that includes sewer, water, and electrical. Some amenities that define the RV park are its private boat launch, boat docks, and gazebo that overlooks the Cotile waterfront. Picnic tables, fire pits, barbecue pits, a laundry facility, and a well-kept bathhouse are some other accommodations provided here. The address of Hidden Treasure RV Resort LLC is 598 LA-1200, Boyce, LA 71409.
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Flagon Creek RV Park
Flagon Creek RV Park is a location in Rapides Parish that offers modern camping arrangements with great features. If you have an interest in fishing, the grounds offer two 1-acre lakes that guests can access. Supplies are available at the general store, and guests can rest assured of their safety due to the 24/7 video surveillance. There are also modern bathrooms that include walk-in showers with continuous hot water. The address of Flagon Creek RV Park is 5540 Upper Donahue Ferry Rd, Pineville, LA 71360.
Kisatchie National Forest Hiking Trails
Explore the diverse hiking trails in Kisatchie National Forest, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
Easy Hikes for Beginners
Challenging Trails for Hikers
Lakeside Trails
Valentine Lake Loop Trail
Distance: 3.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate trail
Lamotte Creek Trail
Distance: 6-8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate trail due to swampy areas
Indian Ridge Trail
Distance: 6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
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Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail
This trail is located in the Evangeline Unit, which is part of the Calcasieu Ranger District. Located near Woodworth, Louisiana, it is a great location for wildflower viewing.
Length: 23.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Claiborne Trails
These trails are located at the Amus Melder Camp in the Evangeline Unit. They are mainly used as equestrian trails for horseback riders that visit the forest.
Length: 17 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Sugar Cane National Recreation Trail
This trail loops around the scenic Caney Lake, which is characterized by lily pads and an irregular shoreline. Many travel here to hike or mountain bike through the pine groves and observe the diverse ecosystem.
Length: 5.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
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Kincaid Trail
This trail provides access to the shoreline of Kincaid Lake and also goes through the region's dense woods. It begins at the pay station of the main entrance of Kincaid Lake Recreation Complex, and it ends at the Lamotte Creek Trail.
Length: 9.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate to Difficult
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Valentine Lake Loop Trail
The hiking trail creates a "loop" that makes its way across the entire north shore of Valentine Lake. It provides exposure to the national forest's mixed hardwood creek bottoms and hilly upland pines.
Length: 3.4 miles
Intensity: Easy
Activities in Kisatchie National Forest
Here are some of the interesting things to do in Kisatchie National Forest.
Enjoy boating on serene lakes suitable for motorized and paddle-powered vessels. This facility is available in Kincaid Lake, Corney Lake, and the Saline Bayou Water Trail.
Dive into Caney Lake or Stuart Lake for a refreshing swim. While Kincaid Lake is currently closed, the other lakes provide ample recreational opportunities.
Try your luck at lake and pond fishing. Annual fishing derbies held in May and June allow children to fish for free in stocked ponds, with prizes and equipment provided by sponsors.
Experience guided horseback rides with Hayes E Daze Ranch, offering tailored rides for all skill levels. Horse camping is available in various areas for extended adventures.
Explore interpretive areas like the Catahoula Hummingbird and Butterfly Garden for a glimpse of pollin
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Stargazing
The Louisiana sky happens to be very beautiful when it gets dark, making stargazing a wonderful pursuit.
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Geocaching
There are options for geocaching at the national forest, and the hiding places are of moderate difficulty.
How to get to Kisatchie National Forest
Address: 2500 Shreveport Hwy, Pineville, LA 71360
Fee: Entry fee $0
Kisatchie National Forest is a fantastic travel destination that presents opportunities for countless recreational activities. Hiking, fishing, and bird watching are a few of the exciting pursuits visitors tend to enjoy. In addition, renting an RV can enhance a trip to a national forest and help you get the full experience without having to sacrifice your comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kisatchie National Forest
Is there a fee to get into Kisatchie National Forest?
No, there is no fee to get into Kisatchie National Forest. There may be fees or permits required for certain activities, or for using certain areas within the forest, however.
Does Kisatchie National Forest offer free camping sites?
Yes, Kisatchie National Forest offers free camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed in the forest and is free. Campers will not have any amenities, and need to pack out all their trash and leave the site as it looked before they arrived.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Kisatchie National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Kisatchie National Forest. Campers can camp in dispersed forest areas for up to 30 days. After that, they must move at least 5 miles to camp again. Developed campgrounds may have their own limits so campers should check with the individual campground.
How many hiking trails does Kisatchie National Forest have?
Kisatchie National Forest has more than 100 miles of hiking trails throughout the forest. Hikers will find trails for every ability, from easy strolls to arduous hikes.
Can you kayak, canoe, or raft in Kisatchie National Forest?
Yes, you can kayak, canoe, and raft in Kisatchie National Forest. Lake Kincaid is perfect for paddling and is a great spot for kayaks and canoes. There are also outfitters in the area that lead rafting trips.
