Valentine Lake Recreation Area

About

Valentine Lake Recreation Area occupies a peaceful corner of Kisatchie National Forest in central Louisiana, centered on a 46-acre lake surrounded by hardwood and pine forest. The Northshore Campground contains 14 campsites, with six positioned along the lake's edge for direct water access. Each site includes a picnic table, lantern post, and grill/fire ring. Flush restrooms and potable water faucets are located throughout the campground, and trash containers are provided. The lake prohibits motorized boats, preserving a quiet atmosphere ideal for paddling and fishing. Canoe access is via a drag/carry launch at the day-use area on the south side. Two fishing piers serve anglers, one near the campground and another at the day-use area. The 3-mile Valentine Lake Loop Trail begins and ends at the campground, winding through the surrounding forest. This is a first-come-first-served campground with no advance reservations. Campers must arrive in person to claim and pay for a site. On-site payment may be available via QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, though cellular service can be limited. Day-use hours run 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Directions

From Alexandria, drive west on LA 28 for 12 miles to LA 121. Turn left (south) on LA 121 and go 0.3 miles to Valentine Lake Road (Forest Road 279). Turn left and go 0.8 miles to Forest Road 282. Turn right and go 1.1 miles. The first paved right leads to the North Shore Campground.