US Forestry Department

For Louisiana locals seeking an unparalleled escape into the wild heart of their state, the area around Boyce, LA, serves as a prime entry point to the vast and diverse Kisatchie National Forest. Managed by the US Forestry Department (specifically, the Calcasieu Ranger District, whose office is located at this address), Kisatchie is Louisiana's only National Forest, offering over 604,000 acres of breathtaking natural beauty and countless opportunities for outdoor recreation. This isn't just a place to visit; it's a living landscape that embodies the "Sportsman's Paradise" spirit of Louisiana, inviting you to explore, discover, and reconnect with nature.

Kisatchie National Forest provides a wide spectrum of camping experiences, catering to various preferences. From developed campgrounds with amenities to remote, dispersed camping options, locals can choose the level of immersion they desire. This flexibility is a significant advantage for Louisiana residents, whether they're planning a family RV trip with all the comforts or a rugged backcountry adventure. The forest's commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities ensures there's something for everyone, from tranquil birdwatching to exhilarating ATV riding.

What truly sets Kisatchie National Forest apart is its incredible biodiversity and extensive network of trails and waterways. With over 400 miles of trails, it's a hiker's, biker's, and equestrian's paradise. Imagine traversing paths through majestic longleaf pine stands, exploring lush bayous, or discovering hidden waterfalls. For anglers and hunters, the forest's lakes, rivers, and vast woodlands offer prime opportunities for their pursuits, making it a year-round destination for Louisiana's outdoor enthusiasts.

The US Forestry Department's presence at the given address (9912 LA-28, Boyce, LA 71409) signifies a direct point of contact for locals to obtain maps, permits, and crucial information about current conditions and regulations. This local access is invaluable for planning safe and responsible adventures within the forest. While specific customer reviews directly tied to "US Forestry Department" as a campground are not applicable (as it's an administrative office, not a campground itself), the numerous positive reviews for various campgrounds *within* Kisatchie National Forest highlight the overall satisfaction of visitors with the natural beauty and recreational offerings managed by this department.

For Louisiana residents, Kisatchie National Forest represents a readily accessible natural treasure. It's a place where urban stresses melt away, replaced by the serene sounds of nature and the thrill of discovery. Whether you're an avid outdoors person or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the vast expanse and diverse offerings of Kisatchie, supported by the US Forestry Department, make it an essential part of the Louisiana outdoor experience.

The main contact point for the US Forestry Department's operations in this area, specifically the Calcasieu Ranger District, is located at 9912 LA-28, Boyce, LA 71409, USA. Boyce is a town in Rapides Parish, situated in the central part of Louisiana. This strategic location provides excellent accessibility for Louisiana locals, as it's directly on Louisiana Highway 28 West, a well-maintained state route.

For residents traveling from major Louisiana cities:

• From Alexandria/Pineville: Boyce is just a short drive west, making it highly convenient for those in the central region.
• From Shreveport: Take I-49 South to US-71 South, then connect to LA-28 West to reach Boyce.
• From Baton Rouge/New Orleans: Travel I-49 North to US-71 North, then connect to LA-28 West.

The Calcasieu Ranger District manages two primary units within Kisatchie National Forest: the Evangeline Unit (in Rapides Parish, near Alexandria/Pineville) and the Vernon Unit (in Vernon Parish, near Leesville). The office in Boyce serves as a central hub for information and guidance related to both. Roads within the national forest, while generally well-maintained, can include gravel or unpaved sections, especially as you delve deeper into specific recreational areas and primitive campsites. It's always advisable for locals to check with the Calcasieu Ranger District office for current road conditions, particularly for larger RVs or during periods of heavy rain.

This central and easily accessible location means that a significant portion of Kisatchie National Forest's diverse recreational opportunities, from developed campgrounds like Kincaid Lake to numerous primitive sites, are within reasonable driving distance. The convenience of having a local US Forest Service office ensures that Louisiana residents have a reliable resource for planning their outdoor adventures, obtaining necessary permits, and getting up-to-date information on trail conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife management.

While the provided address is for an administrative office, the services offered are reflective of the camping and recreational opportunities within the Kisatchie National Forest, managed by the US Forest Service:

• Developed Campgrounds: Offers sites with amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, flush toilets, and often hot showers. Examples in the Calcasieu Ranger District include areas around Kincaid Lake and Valentine Lake, and in other districts, Beaver Dam, Cloud Crossing, and Stuart Lake. Some may offer electric hookups.
• Primitive/Dispersed Camping: Allows for camping outside of designated recreation areas, offering a more rustic experience with no services provided (campers must be self-sufficient and follow Leave No Trace principles).
• Group Campgrounds: Sites designed to accommodate larger gatherings, often requiring reservations.
• RV & Tent Camping: Dedicated sites for both recreational vehicles (with varying size limits) and tent camping across the forest's various campgrounds.
• Recreation Opportunities: Access to a vast network of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) riding (e.g., Evangeline, Vernon, Sandstone OHV trails).
• Water Activities: Access to lakes and bayous for fishing, boating (motorized and paddle-powered), swimming, and canoeing/kayaking (e.g., Kincaid Lake, Valentine Lake).
• Hunting & Fishing: Permitted in designated areas following state and federal regulations; Kisatchie is a prime destination for Louisiana's "Sportsman's Paradise" activities.
• Picnic Areas & Day Use: Numerous day-use areas with picnic tables, often near water bodies or scenic spots.
• Educational Programs: Ranger-led programs, interpretive trails, and visitor information about the forest's ecology and history.
• Permits & Passes: Issuance of various permits for activities like firewood gathering, special uses, and information on interagency passes.

• Louisiana's Only National Forest: A unique natural treasure spanning over 604,000 acres, showcasing diverse ecosystems.
• Extensive Trail System: Over 400 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and OHV recreation, including famous routes like the Wild Azalea Trail and the Sugar Cane Trail.
• Longleaf Pine Ecosystem: Home to magnificent longleaf pine forests, including ancient "super" trees over 200 years old, representing a vital and restored ecosystem.
• Diverse Wildlife: Habitat for a wide array of wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching (many rare and endangered species), wildlife viewing, and hunting.
• Water-Based Recreation: Numerous lakes (e.g., Kincaid Lake, Valentine Lake, Corney Lake) and bayous provide opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and paddling.
• Varying Camping Experiences: From full-service developed campgrounds to secluded primitive sites and designated hunter's camps, catering to all preferences.
• Scenic Beauty: Picturesque landscapes including sandstone bluffs (Longleaf Vista), white sandy beaches along bayous, and lush forested areas.
• Year-Round Activities: Due to Louisiana's mild climate, most outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and hiking can be enjoyed throughout the year.
• Managed Resources: Actively managed by the US Forest Service to ensure sustainability and provide recreational access.

Address: 9912 LA-28, Boyce, LA 71409, USA (Calcasieu Ranger District Office)

Phone: (318) 793-9427

Mobile Phone: +1 318-793-9427

For more detailed information, specific campground reservations, or current alerts (such as fire restrictions or trail closures), Louisiana locals should visit the official Kisatchie National Forest website or contact the Calcasieu Ranger District office directly during business hours. Reservations for developed campgrounds are often made through Recreation.gov.

For Louisiana locals, Kisatchie National Forest, with its accessible gateway via the US Forestry Department office in Boyce, is an indispensable natural asset and an ideal destination for virtually any outdoor pursuit. It’s a place that embodies the very essence of "Sportsman's Paradise," offering an incredible breadth of experiences from tranquil contemplation to thrilling adventure, all within a reasonable drive from most parts of the state.

Its suitability for locals stems from its sheer diversity. Whether you're a seasoned RVer seeking comfortable amenities, a tent camper craving solitude, a hunter pursuing game, an angler casting a line, a hiker exploring new trails, or an OHV enthusiast looking for challenging terrain, Kisatchie has dedicated areas and facilities to accommodate your passion. This variety means that every Louisiana resident, regardless of their preferred outdoor activity, can find their niche within this vast national forest.

The presence of the US Forestry Department's Calcasieu Ranger District office in Boyce is a significant advantage. It provides a direct, local resource for obtaining crucial information – from detailed maps and trail conditions to fire restrictions and permits. This local support ensures that adventures into the forest are well-informed and safe, fostering a sense of confidence and readiness that is highly valued by seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Furthermore, Kisatchie National Forest serves as a vital escape from the everyday. Its extensive network of trails, serene lakes, and quiet forest clearings offer countless opportunities for mental and physical rejuvenation. In a state known for its vibrant culture, Kisatchie provides a contrasting, yet equally essential, experience of raw, untouched nature. It’s a chance to truly disconnect, breathe fresh air, and immerse oneself in the unique ecosystems of Louisiana, from its majestic longleaf pines to its diverse wildlife.

Ultimately, Kisatchie National Forest is more than just a collection of campgrounds and trails; it's a testament to Louisiana's rich natural heritage. For locals, it's a readily available, ever-evolving playground that offers endless opportunities for discovery, adventure, and connection with the unique wild beauty of their home state. It's a place to create lasting memories, learn about the environment, and appreciate the unparalleled outdoor treasures that Louisiana has to offer.

US Forestry Department

9912 LA-28, Boyce, LA 71409, USA