Lake Bistineau State Park

Lake Bistineau State Park is a nature preserve spanning about 750 acres of mixed hardwood forest and open water along the western shore of the lake. The grounds feature cypress trees, multiple camping areas, seven comfortable cabins, and nearly ten miles of woodland trails throughout the property.

The lake formed naturally around 1800 due to a massive log jam in the Red River, which caused widespread flooding of the surrounding lands. A permanent dam was constructed in 1935, establishing the stable water levels that exist today.

The park was instrumental in early desegregation efforts among Louisiana state parks, with its layout reflecting the gradual social changes of that era. Walking through different sections today reveals how these shifts unfolded over time.

The park features two boat launches and lodging options ranging from campsites to cabin rentals for different budgets. Sturdy footwear is advisable when walking trails, particularly in damper sections near the water's edge.

An 11-mile canoe trail winds through the park's waterways, threading between ancient cypress groves where paddlers encounter wildlife in their natural habitat. This water route offers an experience quite different from walking the land-based trails.