Camp Louisiana had a chance to speak with Park Director, James Ramsaur who gave us information on the most popular activities in the park, the different areas for camping and the award wining mountain biking at Lincoln Parish Park.
James’ Favorite Thing To Do At The Park
Mountain biking, because it is one of the best mountain biking trails in all of the South
James’ Favorite Campsite
My favorite campsite in the park is site 8 because it was just redone.
Get To Know Lincoln Parish Park
When was Lincoln Parish Park founded? How did it start?
The park opened in March of 1990. From our website: Thanks to the dogged determination of one man, Frederick Hoogland, thousands of people have enjoyed the beauty and recreation available at Lincoln Parish Park (LPP). After decades of securing funds, scouring for a site and planning for the park, Hoogland helped secure the property for LPP in February, 1982. The park was first opened on a limited basis as the site was improved and developed, which including the construction of the park’s 30-acre lake. In March, 1990, LPP became fully operation and by 1995, was averaging approximately 70,000 visitors annually. In 1993, James Ramsaur, present Park Director, approached Hoogland about adding now-nationally-recognized biking trails; and in the late 90s RV campgrounds were added.
What are the most popular activities in the park?
People come to Lincoln Parish Park for many different reasons but the most popular activities are definitely, mountain biking, trail running, fishing, swimming at the park beach from Memorial day to Labor day, and camping. Legacy Park is also a popular place as it is a handicap-accessible playground.
The piney woods of Lincoln Parish in north Louisiana have caught the attention of serious mountain bikers. For a state that doesn’t boast of mountains, that’s pretty exciting news. Since the Lincoln Parish Park Mountain Biking Trail opened in 1992, it has hosted several outstanding bike races and received wondrous acclaim. Mountain Bike Action magazine ranked the trail among the nation’s top venues, and professional biker Ned Overand called Lincoln Parish Park “one of the most challenging trails.”
Lincoln Parish Park offers an exciting 10-mile loop for the advanced mountain biker with a surprisingly diverse terrain, such as “Tomac Hill,” a 120-foot ski jump downhill. The ride is challenging, mostly single-track with areas for passing and four places to turn back on park roads, if necessary. A smaller 4-mile stretch is also available for beginners. Special events occur regularly, including mountain bike competitions.
Where is Lincoln Parish Park located? What are some other attractions in the area worth checking out?
Lincoln Parish Park is located northeast of Ruston and Interstate 20. From I-20 take Exit 86 and travel north 3.5 miles on Louisiana Highway 33 to Parish Park Road and turn left. Park entrance is at the end of the road.
What are the campsites like within the park? Are they more open or secluded?
We have 33 sites and they all have water, 30/50amp service, and sewage. Over 50% of the sites sit on a hill overlooking the lake. They are open but have a nice tree cover.
