Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site

Spring 1864 was one of the Civil War’s bloodiest. The Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, second only to Gettysburg in casualties, occurred in May that year, and the far lesser-known Battle of Mansfield, central to the story of Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site, took place in rural northwest Louisiana just a month earlier, when the Confederacy won an important victory at Mansfield. In fact, it was the decisive battle of the Red River Campaign in north Louisiana, causing Union soldiers to retreat 100 miles back to Alexandria. 

With the war raging in Louisiana and Union soldiers hoping to advance toward Shreveport, Confederate brass knew they needed to defend settlements in central Louisiana. They determined that Pineville, Alexandria’s neighbor, was well-positioned for building two new defensive structures. They were named Forts Randolph and Buhlow.

The two forts were completed the following March. The Confederacy was ready for battle and had even positioned a warship, the ironclad Missouri, in the Red River near Fort Randolph. However, no battles materialized, thanks to the war ending two months later.

Visitors to Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site are welcomed by a beautiful elevated boardwalk near the banks of the Red River. Walk to the overlook near the Bailey’s Dam site and see the Red River, which served as a major waterway during the late Civil War. Guided tours are offered, and the visitors center holds an exhibit on the Red River Campaign that will give you a good idea of what was at stake for Louisiana during the war.

Other Things to Do in Pineville

Fish for bass in the Red River (public boat launches are available throughout the area), explore the rolling hills of Kisatchie National Forest by foot or horseback, or post up at Fighting Hand Brewery for a game of darts or cornhole over a coffee amber or butter pecan blonde.

Nearby, in Alexandria — central Louisiana’s largest city — get up close with furry friends at Alexandria Zoological Park and check out the Alexandria Museum of Art.

Visiting Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site

When is Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site open?

Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.

How much does it cost to get into Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site? 

Admission to Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site is $6 per person ages 7-61, $4 for seniors 62 and older, and free for children 6 and younger.

Where is Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site located? 

Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site is located at 135 Riverfront St. in Pineville.