US Forestry Department

🌲 **Introduction / Overview**

For Louisiana residents seeking a tranquil, scenic retreat where nature takes center stage, the **Valentine Lake Recreation Complex** is a beloved hidden gem. Managed by the US Forestry Department within the sprawling **Kisatchie National Forest**, this complex centers around the beautiful 46-acre Valentine Lake, which was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. It provides a peaceful, rustic getaway, intentionally preserving the serenity of the Central Louisiana piney woods.

The site, often referred to by its main camping area—**Valentine Lake Northshore Campground**—is an ideal destination for those who appreciate simplicity and non-motorized outdoor recreation. It is a budget-friendly option, known for its picturesque setting with sites nestled among pine and hardwood trees, many of which are situated directly on the lake shore. Visitors are drawn here for the quiet atmosphere, the excellent fishing, and the superb access to the region’s premier hiking trails. While the camping is generally described as "rustic," amenities like flush toilets and potable water elevate the experience above pure primitive camping, offering a comfortable balance between convenience and wilderness immersion.

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🗺️ **Location and Accessibility**

The Valentine Lake Recreation Complex is situated in the **Evangeline District of the Kisatchie National Forest**, conveniently located near the town of Boyce and a short drive from Alexandria, Louisiana. The address provided, **1360 Valentine Lake Rd, Alexandria, LA 71301, USA**, pinpoints the general location within Rapides Parish.

Accessibility is relatively easy, typically involving travel off US Highway 28 or LA Highway 8, followed by well-maintained forest service roads. Despite being deep within the National Forest, the close proximity to Alexandria (approximately 14 miles away) and Pineville makes it an excellent option for local day trips or weekend getaways for Central Louisiana families. The approach roads to the campground are often paved or well-graveled, making access manageable for both tents and small to mid-sized RVs and trailers. However, travelers should note that the paved pads at the sites themselves can be narrow and may require careful maneuvering for larger units.

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🛠️ **Services Offered**

The US Forestry Department provides essential, well-maintained facilities at the Valentine Lake Northshore Campground, focusing on rustic comfort without offering full RV hookups.

• **Campsites:** Approximately **14-16 designated campsites** are available, many of which are desirable lakefront sites. All sites are **first-come, first-served** (reservations are typically not accepted).

• **Basic Site Amenities:** Each campsite is equipped with a **picnic table**, a **grill/fire ring**, and a **lantern pole**.

• **Water:** **Potable water spigots** are available in strategic community locations throughout the campground, though not directly at each site.

• **Restrooms:** Features clean **restroom facilities** which often include **flush toilets** and running water/sinks (check current conditions; showers are generally *not* available).

• **RV/Tent Camping:** Suitable for **tent camping** and small to mid-sized **RVs/trailers** (sites are dry-camping; no electric or sewer hookups are provided).

• **Management:** A **Camp Host** is often on-site during peak season, helping to maintain cleanliness and assist visitors.

• **Day-Use Area:** A separate day-use area offers additional picnic tables, trash receptacles, and lake access.

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🌟 **Features / Highlights**

Valentine Lake Recreation Complex is celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and its connectivity to the larger Kisatchie National Forest trail system.

• **Non-Motorized Lake Serenity:** To maintain the peace, **motorized boating is strictly prohibited** on the 46-acre Valentine Lake, creating an exceptionally tranquil environment perfect for **canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding**.

• **Fishing Opportunities:** The lake is stocked, primarily known for **bass and crappie fishing**. There are **two dedicated fishing piers** available—one near the Northshore campground and one at the day-use area.

• **Access to the Wild Azalea Trail:** The complex serves as the trailhead for the famous **26-mile Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail**, offering challenging overnight hikes or shorter day hikes through beautiful pine and hardwood forest ecosystems.

• **Valentine Lake Trail:** A moderate, approximately **3-mile nature trail** loops around the lake's picturesque shoreline, perfect for leisurely walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the scenic views.

• **Historic CCC Structure:** The lake itself was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, adding a layer of historical significance to the site.

• **Affordable Lakeside Camping:** At a typically low nightly rate (often $10), it is a highly **budget-friendly option** for lakeside camping in Central Louisiana.

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📞 **Contact Information**

For current information on site availability, fees, or WMA conditions within the Kisatchie National Forest, Louisiana residents should contact the Evangeline Ranger District.

• Address: Located within the **Kisatchie National Forest, 1360 Valentine Lake Rd, Alexandria, LA 71301, USA**.

• Phone (US Forest Service Office): **(318) 443-0683**

• Mobile Phone: **+1 318-443-0683**

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✅ **What is Worth Choosing**

The Valentine Lake Recreation Complex is worth choosing for the Louisiana camper who values **peace, budget-friendly access, and world-class hiking**. You should choose this US Forest Service destination if you are a **hiker** (especially those looking to tackle the Wild Azalea Trail), a **non-motorized boater/paddler**, or an **angler** seeking a serene place to fish without the disturbance of speedboats. The campground successfully blends a sense of seclusion and wilderness found in the Kisatchie National Forest with the essential comforts of community water and clean, flushable restrooms.

It is particularly appealing for those who prefer **dry-camping** but want more than just a primitive experience, benefiting from the camp host presence and clean facilities. The commitment to maintaining a quiet, non-motorized environment ensures a genuine and therapeutic connection with the beautiful piney woods of Central Louisiana, making it a true jewel for local outdoor enthusiasts.