Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Louisiana
425

Louisiana State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Louisiana
Crossroads Region
Alexander State Forest
Walk on the Beach © stateparks.com
Picnic Table © stateparks.com
It is always a great day for a picnic in the park.
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
ALEXANDER STATE FOREST
ALEXANDER STATE FOREST
Alexander State Forest, located in central Louisiana, was established in 1923 when the state purchased 2,068 acres from Mrs. Eloise Polk Burrows. Though originally intended to be the first of several state owned demonstration forests, today it is the only one. The forest was named in honor of M. L. Alexander, Louisiana's first commissioner of conservation.

Nine additional purchases of adjacent properties over the next 15 years expanded Alexander State Forest to its present size of approximately 8,000 acres. The multiple-use forest contains 700 acres of bottomland hardwood, 5,000 acres of southern yellow pine and the 2,250 acre Indian Creek Lake and Recreation Area.

The land was mostly barren when purchased. However, today it is an excellent example of reforestation and forest management containing about 35 million board feet of timber. Extensive tree planting was undertaken when a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp was located on the forest during 1933 - 1940. During CCC days, the enrollees, mostly World War I veterans, built the log administrative building, which is now listed on the Louisiana - National Register of Historic Places. The 175-foot Woodworth Fire Tower at the headquarters compound is believed to be the tallest fire tower in the world.

Alexander State Forest is managed under the multiple-use concept, providing a variety of benefits, including timber production, improved wildlife habitat, hunting, recreational opportunity, water and soil conservation, forest management research, and habitat for several endangered species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker. Approximately 75 percent of the state forest acreage is managed for hunting and other recreational activities.
History of the Area
Alexander State Forest is located in central Louisiana and has a rich history that dates back centuries. Here is a brief overview of its historical significance:

1. Indigenous Peoples: The land that now constitutes Alexander State Forest was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Choctaw, Tunica-Biloxi, and Coushatta. These tribes relied on the forest's abundant natural resources for their livelihoods.

2. Timber Industry: In the late 19th century, the area around the present-day forest began to witness the rise of the timber industry. Lumber companies started logging operations in the region to exploit the vast pine forests. The forest's timber was primarily used for construction, fuel, and other wood-related industries.

3. Acquisition by the State: The state of Louisiana recognized the importance of preserving natural areas and ensuring a sustainable timber supply. As a result, around 1926, the Louisiana Forestry Commission purchased tracts of land in Rapides Parish, which eventually became Alexander State Forest. This acquisition aimed to protect the remaining forestland from overexploitation and to manage it sustainably for future generations.

4. Replanting and Reforestation Efforts: After acquiring the land, the Louisiana Forestry Commission spearheaded extensive replanting and reforestation efforts within the forest. These efforts aimed to replenish the timber resources and establish a well-managed, sustainable forest ecosystem.

5. Demonstration Forest: Alexander State Forest was later designated as a demonstration forest, primarily to educate the public about sustainable forest management techniques. The forest serves as a living example of forest stewardship practices, showcasing methods like timber stand improvement, prescribed burning, wildlife management, and sustainable harvesting.

6. Recreational Opportunities: Over time, Alexander State Forest has become a popular destination for outdoor recreational activities. It offers numerous amenities like hiking trails, picnic areas, camping facilities, and fishing opportunities in various lakes within its boundaries. These recreational offerings make the forest a valuable asset for both locals and visitors.

Alexander State Forest continues to be managed by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry. It not only serves as a working forest but also as an important educational and recreational resource, showcasing the importance of sustainable forest management and providing an escape to nature for people in the region.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
Search for a vacation rental


Location
Alexander State Forest is located near Alexandria, Pineville

Trails
1. Wild Azalea Trail: This is the longest trail in Alexander State Forest, stretching over 26 miles from Woodworth to Valentine Lake Recreation Area. The path winds through lush pine and hardwood forests with diverse wildlife.

2. Kincaid Loop Trail: A moderate difficulty level hiking route that covers around 9 miles of terrain within the forest area featuring beautiful wildflowers during springtime and a lake view for most parts of its course.

3. Lamotte Creek Hiking Trails: These trails are perfect for birdwatchers as they wind along creekside habitats rich in avian species diversity including woodpeckers, warblers, hawks among others.

4. Indian Bayou Recreational Trail System: Comprising several interconnected loops totaling about ten miles long which offer opportunities to explore various ecosystems such as bottomland hardwoods swamps and upland pines while also providing access points for fishing or boating on Indian Bayou itself.

5. Valentine Lake Campground Pathway: An easy one:mile looped pathway located near Boyce offering scenic views across Valentine Lake ideal spot for picnicking or camping overnight under starlit skies amidst tranquil surroundings.

6. Turkey Hill Equestrian/Hiking/Bike Trails: Covering approximately seven mile stretch these multi:use pathways provide an opportunity not only hike but also horseback ride bike amid serene landscapes dotted by mature trees rolling hills occasional water bodies.

7. Camp Claiborne Multi:Use Paths: Another set multiple use routes spanning nearly twenty-five total length suitable all levels fitness experience ranging gentle slopes challenging inclinations passing historic sites like former POW camp World War II era structures remnants old railroad tracks etcetera.

8. Little River Bluffs Nature Preserve Walkways: Located southern edge this preserve features two separate walkways each roughly three:fourths distance showcasing unique flora fauna region alongside picturesque riverfront vistas.

9. Bayou Rapides Leisure Route: A leisurely two:mile route that meanders along the banks of Bayou Rapides, offering hikers a chance to enjoy peaceful water views and spot local wildlife.

10. Kisatchie National Forest Trails: Although not directly within Alexander State Forest boundaries, these trails are nearby providing additional hiking options with varying lengths difficulties including Backbone Trail Longleaf Vista Interpretive Pathway Sandstone Multi-Use others each presenting distinct natural cultural highlights region.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 26 Growing up in Alexandria by TPG
park review stars; one to five This was one of the places we frequented - hiking the trails, going for a picnic, camping, water skiing, fishing, swimming. I have so many great memories of this place.
December 10 AMAZING! by S.V.Scooter
park review stars; one to five This park was so amazing, I thought I was just going to live there forever!
write a review
Share On

Directions
1. Start by heading south on US:167 S/US-71 S/SW MacArthur Dr.
2. Continue to follow US:167 S for approximately 7 miles.
3. Take a slight right onto LA:498 W and continue for about 5 miles.
4. Turn left onto Old Boyce Rd/LA Hwy 1206 and drive for around 0.8 miles.
5. Make another left turn onto Castor Plunge Rd/LA Hwy 497 and proceed straight ahead.

state route ranger badge
Louisiana
425

Louisiana State Parks

X