When you want to escape it all, you can’t go wrong with spending some time in the Kisatchie National Forest. After all, it does sprawl for over 600,000 acres throughout central and northern Louisiana. There are hundreds of hiking trails in the Kisatchie National Forest, it would take a lifetime to explore them all. If you’re looking to take the path less traveled, then I’d encourage you to check out the Gum Springs Recreational Area, where you’ll find this hidden hiking trail in Louisiana.

The Gum Springs Recreation Campground and Picnic Area is over in Winn Parish, less than 25 miles from Natchitoches.
Caleb Lefebvre/All Trails
If you’re planning a getaway in Natchitoches, make plans to head over to this hidden gem. It’s only a 30-minute drive away from Louisiana’s oldest city, but you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away from everything.
There are two trails here: a one-mile loop trail and a longer 5.5-mile horse trail.
Travis G/All Trails
I'd strongly recommend getting an AllTrails + account if you plan on hiking in the Kisatchie National Forest. These trails are often in remote areas where you'll be in and out of cell service, and a premium account from AllTrails unlocks features like offline maps and wrong-turn directions that can come in handy when you're in this part of the Pelican State.
You can do either, or both!
Maura Boehret/All Trails
Since the trails are also used by bikes, now’s a great time for a refresher course on yielding on the trails.

Bikes yield to hikers and horses.
Hikers yield to horses.
Horses always have the right of way on trails.

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There are no stalls to keep your gentle giant, so keep that in mind if you plan on riding the trail.
Laken Stallings/All Trails
The one-mile loop trail runs along the water for a good chunk of the trail, giving you dreamy views with every step.
Len Philpot/All Trails
And there are plenty of picnic tables peppered around the recreation area, so be sure to bring some snacks to enjoy before or after your adventure!
Travis G/All Trails
There are vault toilets and drinking water available for guests to use.

For more adventures in the Kisatchie, check out some of our favorite hiking trails in the Kisatchie National Forest.

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Gum Springs Campground and Picnic Area, 12319 US-84, Winnfield, LA 71483, USA