Gum Springs Recreation Area

About

Gum Springs Recreation Area occupies approximately 10 acres of rolling, forested terrain within Kisatchie National Forest's Winn Ranger District. The campground dates back to the late 1930s when 145 Civilian Conservation Corps workers constructed the recreational facilities using ferruginous sandstone, cypress timbers, and native soil. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The campground features 16 primitive campsites spread across hilly terrain with small trails throughout. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and lantern post. Communal amenities include vault toilets and potable water from spigots. The campground operates year-round on a first-come-first-served basis at $10 per night. Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. The location provides direct access to the Gum Springs Horse Trail system, offering approximately 17 miles of developed equestrian and hiking trails through piney woods and baygall habitats. A separate horse camp is also available nearby. The day-use picnic area, featuring historic CCC-built structures including a swimming pool and stone pavilions, is free to access.

Directions

From Winnfield, drive 8 miles west on US Highway 84 to the recreation area junction, a signed location. Address: 12319 U.S. Highway 84 West, Winnfield, LA 71483.