Lake Bistineau State Park

Situated on the western shore of Lake Bistineau, this park offers beautiful vistas and outstanding recreational facilities. An 11-mile canoe trail offers lovely views of the hardwood forest, and stands of cypress and tupelo trees. The park has two boat launches, hiking and biking trails, two swimming pools and a beach. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, as are campsites and cabins. Lake Bistineau formed in 1800 when several thousand acres of land were flooded because of a gigantic log jam in the Red River. Gradually, as the area was dredged, the lake began to drain. Then in 1935, a permanent dam was built across Loggy Bayou, creating the present-day lake. The dam has since been enlarged, giving the reservoir a surface area of 27 square miles, with an average depth of seven feet and maximum depth of 25 feet. Due to fluctuations in the water levels, visitors are advised to contact the park for status updates on the boat launch. Lake Bistineau State Park is located at 103 State Park Road, Doyline. From I-20 at Minden take Highway 371 south to Sibley, Highway 164 west to Doyline, and Highway 163 south to the park.

For more information visit Lake Bistineau State Park's website.