🇺🇸 Kisatchie National Forest | Pine Trails, Scenic Ridges & Starry Skies 🌲⛺🦅

🛰 31.4300° N, 92.6200° W

📝 1. Overview

Kisatchie National Forest is Louisiana’s only national forest—sprawling pine woodlands, sandstone bluffs, and remote trails stretch across five ranger districts. It’s the go-to for campers, hikers, and nature photographers seeking solitude, elevation, and sky-wide views.

📸 2. Highlights

🥾 Wild Azalea Trail – Louisiana’s longest hiking trail (31 miles)
🛶 Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area – Creek-side camping & kayaking
🌄 Longleaf Vista – Scenic overlook with picnic spots & wildflowers
🚵 Claiborne Trails – Biking through dense pine forests
⛺ Beaver Dam Campground – Family-friendly with lake access
🔥 Backcountry Areas – True wilderness for seasoned adventurers

💡 3. Tips

🥾 Bring trail maps—cell signal is spotty
🔥 Check fire regulations before campfires
🐍 Watch for wildlife—snakes, deer, and owls common
⛺ Book campsites early on weekends
🌞 Best time = spring/fall (cooler + clear views)

🎟️ 4. Tickets & Info

🍽️ 5. Nearby Eats

🍔 Grayson’s BBQ (Clarence) – Old-school smoked meats
🍕 Trail’s End Diner (Pollock) – Trail-ready portions & homestyle
🥗 Marion’s Café (Winnfield) – Breakfast before or after your hike

🚗 6. Access

📍 From Alexandria: ~30–45 min drive
📍 Closest entry: Longleaf Vista (via Hwy 117)
🚘 Car required—no public transport
🅿️ Parking available at major trailheads & campgrounds
⛽ Nearest gas = towns like Natchitoches, Winnfield, or Pollock

🎈 7. Vibes & Add-ons

🌲 Solitude, birdsong & soft pine needles underfoot
🌄 Ideal for hikers, backpackers & stargazers
📸 Great for sunrise/sunset shoots on ridges
🔥 Unplug & reconnect with nature—totally offline

🏨 8. Recommended Hotels (Trip.com Picks)

1. Comfort Suites Alexandria – Easy basecamp with breakfast
    💰 Price: $$
    📍 6015 Old Boyce Rd, Alexandria, LA
2. Chateau Saint Denis (Natchitoches) – Comfort + charm near the forest edge
    💰 Price: $$$
    📍 751 Second St, Natchitoches, LA
3. Hotel Bentley – Historic charm in downtown Alexandria
    💰 Price: $$
    📍 200 Desoto St, Alexandria, LA

🌐 9. Contact / Info

📍 Kisatchie National Forest HQ: +1 (318) 473-7160
📍 Calcasieu Ranger District (Alexandria): +1 (318) 793-9427
📍 Winn Ranger District: +1 (318) 628-4664
📍 Bayou Campground Info Line: Check local ranger posts

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