Lake Bistineau State Park - Doyline, LA







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Overview

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!

Nature Got It Started

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.

Something for Everyone

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.

Around the Corner

While Area 1 is memorable for its natural tranquility, Area 2 is notable for its lively recreation facilities.

Although Area 2 is connected to the main part of the park by the lake, to reach Area 2 by car you will return to the highway by going east off LA 163, along Webster Parish Road 178, to the entrance.

Area 2 includes a group camp (which can accommodate 48 people), playgrounds, a large picnic area with several pavilions, a swimming pool, a baseball field, and a boat launch.

If natural beauty and outstanding facilities are what you're seeking, you'll find exactly what you're looking for at Lake Bistineau State Park.

Activities & Amenities

	Hiking Trails		Picnicking		Restrooms
	Fishing		Swimming Pool & Lake		Boat Ramp
	Tent Camping		Trailer & RV Camping		Dump Station
	Laundry		Showers		Telephone
	Pets on Leash		Cabins		Playgrounds
	Nature Center