Kisatchie Bayou reopens after repairs made to combat erosion

Kisatchie Bayou Campground, one of the more beloved outdoor spots in Central Louisiana, has reopened after repairs were made to combat erosion to the bayou's banks.

"Every time the area floods, the banks recede more and more," said Stacy Blomquist public affairs specialist for the U.S. Forest Service.

So the Corps of Engineers and Wildlife and Fisheries did some intensive studies to see what could be done, she said. They decided to add rocks and other materials to help stabilize it. They also added concrete stairs leading from the top of the bluff to the bayou and reconstructed the sidewalk at the top of the bluff.

Ashley and Richard Barrett of Fort Polk have lived there for 10 years but it was about five years ago that they discovered Kisatchie Bayou. They visit regularly since they live close by, said Ashley.

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Kisatchie Bayou has the only class II rapids in the state with whitewater swiftly flowing over elevated rocks in the creek bed creating scenic views. Visitors can wade in the waters or tube down an area near the opposite bank across from the park. Fishermen can also catch bass, perch, sunfish and catfish.

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Located within Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area, Kisatche Bayou is part of the 604,000 acres of the Kisatchie National Forest that spreads across seven parishes.

To get to the area, drive west on Longleaf Vista Road. Turn left on the dirt road Forest Road 321. The campground is about 6 miles from this turn. Take the third dirt road on the right, Bayou Camp Road (Forest Road 366). The road leads all the way to the bayou. The fee is $2 for day use and $2 per night for camping.