Cotile Recreation Area

Introduction / Overview: Experience the Natural Charm of Cotile Recreation Area

For generations of Louisiana residents, Cotile Recreation Area has been a beloved destination, serving as a peaceful getaway and a hub for family-friendly water activities in the heart of the state. Located near the quaint community of Boyce, just a short drive from Alexandria, this expansive park centers around the beautiful, man-made Cotile Lake. Created in 1965, the lake spans approximately 1,775 acres of clear water, which many locals describe as being delightfully warm for swimming during the summer months.

Cotile Recreation Area offers a classic Louisiana outdoor experience, providing a valuable mix of modern convenience and rustic charm. It is designed to accommodate everyone from the full-time RV traveler needing all the hookups to the weekend warrior seeking a primitive tent site nestled among the trees. The commitment here is to providing a space where families can truly disconnect from the everyday grind and reconnect with the simple pleasures of nature: fishing, swimming, boating, and enjoying a campfire under the Central Louisiana stars. While management continually works to maintain and improve the facilities, the core appeal remains the stunning lake access and the wide range of recreational activities available, making it one of the finest recreational facilities in the region.

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Location and Accessibility for the Central Louisiana Explorer

Cotile Recreation Area is perfectly situated in the uplands of Central Louisiana, making it an accessible retreat for residents across the state. The official address is 75 Cotile Lake Rd, Boyce, LA 71409, USA. This location is key because it places the park only about 15 miles west-northwest of Alexandria, the region’s largest city. For those in the Alexandria/Pineville area, it means a quick, easy drive for a day trip or a weekend camping adventure. For travelers from further afield, its proximity to major routes ensures straightforward navigation.

The approach to the campground is on paved roads, which is always a plus for those towing larger travel trailers and RVs. The park's setting provides the quiet, natural environment people seek when camping, yet it is close enough to urban centers that essential services, groceries, and medical facilities are never far away. This unique blend of secluded nature and practical convenience is what makes Cotile an appealing choice for both short stays and longer seasonal visits. It offers a genuine slice of the Louisiana outdoors without requiring a deep dive into the wilderness, remaining a highly practical destination for families and weekend explorers.

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Services Offered for Every Type of Camper

To ensure a comfortable and versatile stay, Cotile Recreation Area provides a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its guests, from basic primitive sites to full RV hookups.

• RV Camping Sites: The campground offers sites with electrical hookups (typically 30/50-amp), water, and in some designated areas, sewer hookups. Specific sections, such as the initial sites (often 1-7), are known to offer full hookups.
• Primitive and Tent Camping: Separate areas are set aside for those who prefer the traditional tent camping experience, with some sites offering lake views through the trees.
• Designated Swimming Area: The park features a large, cleared, and zoned swimming area, complete with a bathhouse nearby for convenience—perfect for cooling off during the hot Louisiana summers.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Bathhouse facilities are available for all guests. While their condition can vary and maintenance challenges have been noted, clean restrooms and showers are a standard provision for campers.
• Picnic Areas and Pavilions: Numerous picnic spots are available for day use, and larger pavilions can often be rented for group gatherings, parties, or events.
• Boat Launches and Access: Direct access to Cotile Lake is provided through on-site boat launches, catering to fishing, water skiing, and pleasure boating enthusiasts.

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Features and Highlights That Define the Experience

The true draw of Cotile Recreation Area is its rich array of natural and maintained features that encourage active recreation and relaxation on and around the water.

• Excellent Water Sports Opportunities: The lake is known for its designated, safe water skiing area, cleared of snags, making it a reliable spot for thrill-seekers. The warm July waters are a consistent highlight for swimmers.
• Premier Fishing Destination: Cotile Lake is well-stocked with a variety of game fish, including largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, sun perch, and crappie. It's a favored spot among Central Louisiana anglers.
• Scenic Lake Views: Many campsites, particularly the primitive and certain RV sites, boast lovely views or proximity to the 1,775-acre lake, providing a serene backdrop for your stay.
• Versatile Site Options: The flexibility to choose between asphalt-pad RV sites, electricity-only sites, or true primitive camping allows the park to appeal to a broader audience than single-style campgrounds.
• Proximity to Kisatchie National Forest: Though not directly inside the park, the nearby Kisatchie National Forest offers additional opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and wilderness exploration for those looking to expand their outdoor adventure.

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Contact Information

For the most current information regarding camping fees (which vary by site type and hookups, ranging from tent sites without electricity to full hookup RV sites), reservations, and specific inquiries about the facilities, it is best to contact the management directly.

• Address: 75 Cotile Lake Rd, Boyce, LA 71409, USA
• Phone (Local): (318) 793-8995
• Phone (Alternate/Mobile): +1 318-793-8995

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What is Worth Choosing Cotile Recreation Area?

Choosing Cotile Recreation Area is an easy decision for Central Louisiana residents and visitors who prioritize unparalleled lake access and a wealth of water-based activities. It’s an authentic, locally managed site that truly captures the spirit of Louisiana's outdoor recreational heritage. While acknowledging that all public parks face challenges with upkeep—such as the occasional need for quicker attention to restroom cleanliness or dealing with the noise from enthusiastic weekend party-goers in certain areas—the overall value proposition is strong and clear.

The beautiful, swimmable lake is the major draw. Few other campgrounds in the region offer such a dedicated swimming zone and excellent water skiing conditions alongside quality fishing and boating. Furthermore, the variety in camping styles—from the secluded primitive tent sites with views to the full-service RV spots—means you can tailor your experience to your budget and desired comfort level. This versatility makes it ideal for mixed groups where some prefer an RV and others prefer a tent.

Ultimately, you choose Cotile for the beautiful natural setting, the superb recreational facilities on the lake, and the convenience of being close to Alexandria while still feeling a world away. For a memorable weekend of fishing, swimming, and genuine Louisiana relaxation, Cotile Recreation Area remains a premier and essential choice in Central Louisiana camping.