Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway

The largest manmade lake in the South, Toledo Bend Reservoir is surrounded by some of Louisiana’s most impressive pines and hardwoods. The Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway lies in west-central Louisiana along the state’s border with Texas. The byway parallels the reservoir and takes in both the recreational bounty of the lake and the beauty of the forests, which provide a natural habitat for many kinds of wildlife. The area encompasses many parks, golf and fishing resorts, marinas and outlooks where visitors can drink in the scenery and spot eagles and blue herons. The rolling byway is especially lovely in the spring and summer, when the wildflowers and native blooming trees add their color. Bikers can take advantage of the byway’s 26 miles of bicycle trails.

The South Toledo Bend State Park lies on several small bluffs extending above the Toledo Bend Reservoir. A favorite spot of bass fishermen, the park also is a nesting ground for bald eagles. Farther north, just off the byway near Many, is Fort Jesup, the site of a garrison established in 1822 by future U.S. President Zachary Taylor. The original field kitchen and a replica of the officers’ quarters are still worth a visit at Fort Jesup. In this area lies the history of El Camino Real, a trading route used by early explorers that helped create a cultural melting pot in southwestern Louisiana. Close to this historic area is Cypress Bend Resort, a luxury resort that includes an 18-hole golf course, spa and restaurant. Next to the resort is Cypress Bend Park, which has a large, sandy beach, playground, RV pads and a marina.

North Toledo Bend State Park extends upriver with sprawling Toledo Bend scenic and recreation areas. Opportunities abound for water sports of all kinds, but bass fishing rules, and this area is home to numerous annual fishing tournaments. Camping, hiking and birding are popular here. You can also rent a canoe or paddleboat for a leisurely tour on the water. Many good stopping points for food and recreation exist along the way, but when arriving to Logansport, at the northern end of the park, stop at River’s Edge Restaurant, which serves up platters of chicken-fried steak, seafood and other “country-style” entrees.