National Forest Top Picks Backpack along the Wild Azaleas Between the months of March and April, the Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail is magnificently overflowing with southern pink azalea blooms and winter-white dogwood. Its 31 miles also claim the title of Louisiana's longest trail, though its easily traveled path is perfect for a family hike. In case you are not interested in trekking across all 31 miles, the trail is divided into sections.
Campsites are accessible along the way.
The lakes' supply of bass, crappie, bluegill, sandbass, and catfish makes for particularly good fishing in both the spring and autumn seasons. Other terrific local fishing can be found at nearby Corney Lake, Stuart Lake in the Catahoula Ranger District, and Kincaid and Valentine Lakes in the Calcasieu Ranger District. Float the Saline Bayou Grab the opportunity to canoe down one of the few undisturbed hardwood bottomland bayous still remaining in Louisiana. Looming cypress trees dangle from the shores, giving your ride the traditional mysterious quality associated with the Louisiana marshland. The forest's variety of ecosystems allows for an array of wildlife.