Kisatchie National Forest is a 604,000-acre forest split into six seperate areas stretching across Northwest Louisiana. The national forest not only offers the the cypress-strewn bayous Louisiana is known for, but also mesas and hilly-terain. The Kisatchie's swamps, meadows, and forests offer several recreational opportunities.
The Kisatchie National Forest consists of 391 acres of fishing lakes, in which an abundance of bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish allow for great fishing in both the spring and fall.
Another way to experience Louisiana's waterways is to canoe down the Saline Bayou, taking in the beautiful scenery of the marshland.
Wildlife is on display, as well. Snakes, alligators, otters, mink, wood ducks, red cockaded woodpeckers, and several other endangered or threatened species. Game species within the forest include quail, wild turkey, whitetail deer, dove, and more. Birdwatching is also another activity that the park offers, and a checklist of birds inhabiting the Kisatchie National Forest can be obtained from any Forest Service office.
The Beaver Dam Camp is covered by pines and hardwoods, and is stationed near forest trails as well as bayous and ponds.
The Dormon Horse Trail moves through the Kisatchie Ranger District for 12 miles, stretching from the Longleaf Trail to the Kisatchie Bayou camp.
The Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail is burgeoning with southern pink azalea blooms and winter-white dogwood between the months of March and April. Ranging 31 miles, it is also Louisiana's longest trail. The trail is divided into sections and is perfect for hiking. Campsites are also accessible along the trail.
