Spanning over 600,000 acres across seven central and northern parishes, the Kisatchie National Forest is a nature lover’s paradise. Not only does Louisiana’s only National Forest appeal to hunters and fishers from all over the country, but hikers and campers too. The rugged terrain is some of the most unique in the state, too. The forest is home to some of Louisiana’s oldest rocks, beautiful longleaf pines, and rare plants and animals.

Since the forest is so large, it’s broken up into five Ranger Districts.

They are Calcasieu, Caney, Catahoula, Kisatchie, and Winn with the headquarters located in Pineville. There are smaller units within each district, and most of these units have campgrounds or recreation facilities available for use.

For hiking, there's no better place.

There are hundreds of primitive trails peppered throughout the forest.

Since the forest is so large, it's a great place to explore when you want to get away from it all.

You may even find you have the trails all to yourself!

Even the most difficult of trails are fairly easy.

It is Louisiana, after all. Just keep in mind that these are all primitive trails and at the mercy of the weather, so if you visit after a rainfall, you'll be in for a muddy hike.

From hidden lakes and babbling brooks...

...to sweeping treetop views, the Kisatchie is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscape in the state.

Each trail is unique, and will take you all throughout the forest.

You can even camp along the trails!

Just make sure you don't leave any litter behind, so that future generations can continue to enjoy this natural paradise.

Imagine waking up to views like this!

It's not very often we're treated to treetop views like this, so soak it up!

If you're interested in learning more about the hiking trails found within the forest, check out our previous article here where we highlight some of our favorites! Have you ever camped or hiked the Kisatchie? Let us know in the comments below!