Stuart Lake

About

Stuart Lake Recreation Complex sits on a scenic 5-acre lake surrounded by pine-hardwood forest in the Catahoula Ranger District of Kisatchie National Forest. The primitive campground features 8 sites that were renovated in 2009, offering a quiet retreat for tent campers and small RVs seeking a back-to-basics experience. Recreational opportunities abound at the lake, including swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking (non-motorized boats only). The Stuart Lake Nature Trail provides hiking and bicycling access through the surrounding forest. A day-use area with picnic facilities operates from sunrise to sunset. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers can pay on-site via cash, check, or by scanning a QR code through the Recreation.gov mobile app. Download the app before arrival as cellular service may be limited in this remote area.

Directions

From Alexandria, take US Hwy 167 to the intersection of LA Hwy 8 in Bentley and turn right. Continue on LA Hwy 8 for 4 miles and turn right onto Stuart Lake Road (FR 144). Go 1 mile and turn right onto Stuart Lake Recreation Area Road (FR 144-A). Follow FR 144-A to the end where the day use parking area is located.