Lake Bistineau State Park

Attractions near the campground: Kisatchie National Forest-Caney Lakes Recreation Area-- (North of I-20 on LA 159)--This area offers picnick- ing, swimming, fishing, waterskiing, hiking/biking trails, boat launches, group picnic shelters, and 27 improved and 21 unimproved campsites. The 7.6-mile Sugar Cane National Recreation Trail circles upper Caney Lake and offers a forest ecosystem, views of the lake, and the visible remains of an old sugar cane mill.

Directions to the campground: Located southeast of Shreveport just off LA 163 south of Doyline. From I-20 at Minden take LA 7 south to Sibley, LA 164 west to Doyline, and LA 163 south to the park.

Campground Desciption and details: Situated on the western shore of Lake Bistineau, this park offers a satisfying blend of beautiful vistas and outstanding recreational facilities. Memorable for its upland mixed hardwood forest, its open waters, and its enchanting stands of cypress and tupelo trees, the park offers two boat launches, hiking trails, playgrounds, two swimming pools, a lakefront beach, a baseball field, camping, cabins, lodges, and excellent fishing! Lake Bistineau dates back almost 200 years. It began in 1800 when several thousand acres of land were flooded due to a gigantic log jam in the Red River. Gradually, however, as the area was dredged, the lake began to drain. Then in 1935, a permanent dam was built across Loggy Bayou,creating the present-day Lake Bistineau. The dam has since been enlarged, giving the reservoir a surface area of 26.9 square miles, with an average depth of seven feet and maximum depth of 25 feet. Lake Bistineau State Park was born on July 6, 1938, the day legislation was signed authorizing the creation of the park. Ten years later, the entire tract of land was acquired, plans were drawn, and construction began. A Fisherman's Paradise Local people tell many stories of the successes enjoyed by fishermen on Lake Bistineau. Beginning in January with the "yo- yo" season and lasting through the spring, summer, and early fall, the dedicated fisherman can draw such catches as black crappie, largemouth bass, yellow bass, bullheads, bluegill, and red-ear sunfish from the lake's clear waters. Lake Bistineau State Park has a lot to offer the angler, but fishing is certainly not the end of the recreation story. This beautiful spot in northwest Louisiana offers many recreation opportunities in both sections of the park Area 1 and Area 2. Area 1, or the main section of the park, is accessed from LA 163. Picnicking along the lake is tremendously popular at numerous sites equipped with tables, grills, and nearby restrooms. Several picnic pavilions are also available for larger groups. A park naturalist is on hand to take you along one of the park's nature trails or offer a variety of programs which are guaranteed to bring the natural beauty and wildlife of the park to life. A play area, a boat ramp and launch, or a quiet spot for swimming in the lake among the cypress and tupelo trees may suit your wishes. Take advantage of the rental boats that are also available. For the Overnight Visitor::: Area 1 also has provisions for those who want to spend the night. Fourteen vacation cabins, complete with bedrooms, bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens, are extremely popular attractions. A charming lodge that sleeps 12 is great for large families or a group. The cabins and the lodge have central air conditioning and heat, making them comfortable year-round. Playgrounds will delight young guests of the park. For the camper, there are 67 improved campsites with water and electricity, nearby restrooms, showers, and a dump station. The park includes a rally campground for groups. Groups may also enjoy the group camp in Area 1 which provides sleeping quarters for up to 160 people in 20 cabins, a fully equipped kitchen, and a swimming pool. This is a favorite for family reunions and church gatherings. Enjoy a multitude of recreational opportunities in the midst of a beautiful woodland on the edge of a 200-year-old lake.