Explore the Parks of Central Louisiana
Spring is in full bloom, and now is the ideal time to get outside and get moving. Central Louisiana is home to several beautiful and well-maintained public parks that are perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. Here are some of the top public parks located in Central Louisiana:
- Buhlow Lake. Located in Pineville, Buhlow Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating and hiking. The park features a large lake, as well as a nature trail that winds through the surrounding forest.
- Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge. Located in Jonesville, the Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for hiking, fishing and wildlife observation.
- The Wild Azalea Trail (located in Kisatchie National Forest). The Wild Azalea Trail, located in Kisatchie National Forest, is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking. The trail has endpoints at the Valentine Lake Recreational Area and Woodworth Town Hall and is accessible by road at several points in between.
- Valentine Lake Recreation Complex (located in Kisatchie National Forest). The Valentine Lake Recreation Complex, located in Gardner, is known for its peaceful atmosphere, perfect for canoeing, camping and hiking. The complex includes the Valentine Lake Northshore Campground, access to the Valentine Lake Trailhead and two fishing piers.
You can find even more walking trails by visiting The Rapides Foundation’s Interactive Map of Healthy Activities and searching for sites near you. Central Louisiana is home to many beautiful and scenic public parks, so there is no shortage of outdoor recreational opportunities in the area. Whether you are looking for a place to fish, hike or simply enjoy the great outdoors, you will find a park that is perfect for you in Central Louisiana.
The Rapides Foundation is a philanthropic organization that develops initiatives and provides grants to organizations in its nine-parish service area that share the Foundation’s Mission to improve the health status of Central Louisiana. Through its Healthy Behaviors Initiative, the Foundation addresses the health behavior priorities of tobacco prevention and control, alcohol/substance abuse prevention, healthy eating and active living. For more information, visit www.rapidesfoundation.org.
