Grant Parish (with a little of Rapides Parish) - Catahoula Ranger District
With its close proximity to Alexandria and Pineville, this 121,500 acre-District is popular with residents of Rapides and Grant Parishes as they explore the piney woods and hardwood bottoms on one of the many trails. Visitors to this Ranger District can enjoy the picturesque setting at Stuart Lake Complex, hike or bike along the Glenn Emery Trail, ride an ATV on Camp Livingston Multiple-Use Trails, or hunt the many game seasons. Viewing wildlife at Iatt Lake Observation Pier or at the Catahoula Butterfly Garden is also available.
Catahoula Ranger District
General Information
Stuart Lake was originally created as an irrigation reservoir for the Civilian Conservation Corps-constructed Stuart Nursery. This peaceful 5-acre lake is surrounded by a mixed pine/hardwood forest setting. Recreation opportunities offered at Stuart Lake include picnicking, swimming, fishing, trail hiking, biking, and a separate group picnic shelter. Trails include the Glenn Emery Hiking Trail (~4 miles) and two OHV trails at Camp Livingston Multiple-Use Trail System. The Catahoula National Wildlife Management Preserve is located on both the Catahoula and the Winn Ranger Districts.
Download and print the Catahoula Ranger District recreation brochure and map for more recreation information and details.
Download and print the Catahoula Ranger District Motor Vehicle Use Maps to discover where you may drive your vehicle or off-highway vehicle on national forest lands.
District phone number: (318)765-3554.
Recreation Sites
Bankston Camp
Butterfly Garden
Catahoula National Wildlife Management Preserve (NWMP)
Hickman Trailhead (Trail)
Highway 472 Camp
Iatt Lake Observation Pier
Little Creek Trailhead (Trail)
Pearson Camp
Saddle Bayou Camp
Stuart Lake Recreation Complex, Camping/Day Use