Paddle
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, open waters, and enchanting stands of cypress and tupelo trees, the park offers two boat launches, hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, a swimming poollakefront beach, camping, cabins, lodges, and excellent fishing!
Don’t have a boat? No problem!
| Flat Bottom Boats | $20 per day | Includes 2 paddles and 3 life jackets |
| Canoes | $7 per hour or $25 per day | Include paddles and life jackets |
| Kayaks | $7 per hour or $35 per day | Include paddles and life jackets |
Fish
The wonderful thing about fishing on Lake Bistineau is that you can count on a catch almost all year long. Beginning in January and lasting through the spring, summer, and early fall, the dedicated fisherman can draw freshwater catches such as black crappie, largemouth bass, yellow bass, catfish, bluegill, and red-ear sunfish from the lake’s clear waters.
Hike
The park’s trail system encompasses nearly 10 miles of woodland trails for exploring and discovering nature!
Willis Homestead Trail – 3.8 miles
Blue Wing Trail – 1.2 miles
Koasati Trail – 2.0 miles
Pintail Loop Trail – 1.3 miles
Discovery Circle – .4 miles
6-mile Equestrian Trail:
Equestrian trails at State Parks sites are open to riders and their own horses. There is a $3/horse per day trail fee, in addition to the normal day-use entrance of $3 per person; overnight campsites can be rented for $22 to $28 per night. Certification of a clean Coggins test is required for all horses brought on State Park property. It is recommended that you call ahead for the status of the trail.
Rental Facilities
Deluxe Cabins
Seven Deluxe Cabins are available for overnight stays. Each cabin sleeps up to 8 people with 1 double bed, 2 bunk beds and 1 queen sleeper sofa. Basic cookware, cooking utensils, dinnerware, silverware, towels and linens are provided. Bring your own food and personal supplies.
Group Camp I
Group Camp I offers 20 cabins, sleeping up to 160 people. It also includes a dining hall, kitchen, sand volleyball court, playground and swimming pool (seasonal).
Group Camp II
Group Camp II offers 6 cabins, sleeping up to 40 people. It also includes a dining hall and kitchen. Group Camp visitors will need to bring their own dishes, silverware, paper products, bathroom tissue, towels, linens and personal supplies.
For rates and availability please call 318-745-3503.
RV Camping
- 17 Premium Campsites (5 pull-through campsites, 12 prime location campsites, all with water and electrical hookup)
- 44 Improved Campsites (water and electrical hookup) For rates and availability please call 318-745-3503.
🐐 Goat Island
Goat Island is a local favorite—known for its rich greenery, wildlife sightings, and peaceful shoreline perfect for paddlers. The island’s name adds a sense of charm and curiosity, making it a fun destination for boaters exploring Lake Bistineau’s winding waterways. Visitors enjoy quiet picnic spots, shady trees, and the simple pleasure of being tucked away in the cypress-lined lake.
🕊 Crane Island
Crane Island earns its name from the elegant wading birds often seen near its shoreline. Birdwatchers and photographers visit for the chance to glimpse herons, egrets, and cranes moving through the shallows. With serene waters surrounding it, Crane Island is ideal for kayaking, quiet fishing trips, and wildlife observation.
🌿 Nancy’s Island
Nancy’s Island offers a true sense of escape. Surrounded by moss-draped cypress trees and calm waters, it’s a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking privacy and natural beauty. Boaters love pulling up along its edge for a relaxed lunch on the water or an afternoon of exploring the inlets and coves nearby.
🐍 Snake Island
Despite its adventurous name, Snake Island is primarily known for its dense vegetation and the wildlife that thrives in its natural habitat. It’s a popular point of interest for boaters and anglers who appreciate Louisiana’s wilder side. The island offers a sense of mystery and untouched beauty—perfect for those who enjoy discovering remote corners of the lake.
🏖 Sandy Island
Sandy Island is the closest Lake Bistineau gets to a “beach day.” Known for its sandier edges and open spaces, this island is a gathering spot for families, swimmers, and boaters looking to stretch out and relax. On warm days, you’ll often see visitors anchoring nearby to enjoy the sunshine and calm water.
🐦 Bird’s Island
A haven for migratory and resident birds alike, Bird’s Island is a nature-lover’s paradise. Pelicans, songbirds, and waterfowl frequent the area, making it a picturesque stop for binocular-carrying visitors. The island’s quiet atmosphere and thriving ecosystem make it one of the lake’s most photogenic locations.
🍇 Plum Orchard Island
Plum Orchard Island hints at a history of wild fruit trees and lush growth. Today, it remains a beautifully wooded island perfect for exploring by kayak or skiff. Visitors enjoy the shade, the peaceful shoreline, and the sense of stepping into a small pocket of Louisiana wilderness.