Visitors Maps and Guides for the Winn Ranger District
With over 164,000 acres to explore in Winn, Natchitoches, and Grant Parishes, visitors to the Winn Ranger District can enjoy the recreation serenity of an upland pine ecosystem, the historic past of Gum Springs Recreation Complex, and float along the bottomland hardwood forest of scenic Saline Bayou National Wild and Scenic River.
Winn Ranger District (Winn, Grant and Natchitoches Parishes) Maps and Guides
Winn Ranger District Recreational Opportunities and Facilities Brochure
Located in an area of hilly terrain and natural springs, Gum Springs Recreation Complex exhibits recreation design from the Civilian Conservation Corps era of the 1930's and offers basic recreation opportunities of picnicking and camping, an dis close to Gum Springs Horse Camp and Trail. Approximately 21 miles of Saline Bayou was designated a National Wild and Scenic River because of its unique qualities. It is a peaceful setting where bald cypress and other hardwoods growing along the banks are often reflected in the bayou's quiet water. The bayou can flow over its banks during high water making the journey hazardous. It is always best to check with the District first about current water conditions. Cloud Crossing Recreation Complex lies directly on the banks of Saline Bayou an dis an ideal put-in/take-out point for boating, canoeing, or kayaking.
The Gum Springs Horse Trail is located on the Winn Ranger District in the midst of beautiful, mature pine stands and hardwood bottoms.
Saline Bayou is part of the National Scenic Rivers system and a true hidden gem in Louisiana. Float down the entire river corridor or select one of the five segments to enjoy. There are five boat ramps available on Saline Bayou.
Ever wonder if that little dirt road is legal to drive on the National Forest? Here's a downloadable booklet to provide that information.