Desoto Parish historical sites, museums, small towns, and places to stay and eat.
A Scenic Journey Along the Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway: Where Forests, Festivals, and Fishing Await
Winding through 76 miles of natural beauty, the Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway invites travelers to explore one of Louisiana’s most picturesque routes. Beginning in the charming town of Logansport and stretching all the way to the Toledo Bend Dam at the Texas border, this journey along LA Highway 191 hugs the edge of the stunning Toledo Bend Reservoir. Along the way, it reveals a landscape of rolling hills, towering pines, hardwood forests, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Tucked along the Louisiana-Texas border, the Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway is more than just a route, it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the natural beauty, small towns, and rich traditions of DeSoto Parish.
First Stop: Logansport, LA
Trails and Walking Paths Near the Sabine River in Logansport
Logansport is a riverfront gem that is rich in both scenery and Southern hospitality. At Dennis Freeman Memorial Park, you’ll find yourself drawn to the peaceful boardwalk along the Sabine River, where bald eagle sightings are possible and the gentle sounds of forest and swamp blend into a relaxing soundtrack. Sandbars invite spontaneous picnics, while kayaks and canoes glide over still water in the shade of towering trees.
For anglers, the Sabine River is a dream come true. Whether you’re here for the famous Sand Bass Tournament in late winter or one of the many local weekend fishing competitions, the river promises both challenge and reward, with catfish and sand bass just waiting for a tug on the line.
More Than Just Nature
Beyond the water, Logansport knows how to celebrate. Annual events light up the calendar from the vibrant Mardi Gras parade and the family-friendly Easter Egg Drop to the deliciously competitive Batt
le on the Sabine BBQ Contest each September. During late fall, the town transforms into a twinkling wonderland during the Logansport Festival of Lights, drawing visitors from across Louisiana and Texas for a spectacular multi-day holiday celebration.
Summer Happenings
If you’re planning a visit during summer, don’t miss the annual 4th of July celebration on the Sabine River—a day full of patriotic pride, river fun, and fireworks. Or take a short detour to nearby Grand Cane on July 20 for Balloons Over DeSoto, where colorful hot air balloons dot the sky in a breathtaking summer spectacle.
Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore
From cozy cabins and charming inns to delicious local eats and quaint shops, Logansport and greater DeSoto Parish have everything you need for a relaxing weekend getaway. You can cast a line, join in the local festivals, or simply drift downriver with the current. Every part of the Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway offers a Louisiana experience that’s both wild and welcoming!
Read more:
Sabine Parish’s Byway link: https://toledobendlakecountry.com/toledo-bend-scenic-byway
Desoto Parish’s link: https://discoverdesoto.com/listing/toledo-bend-forest-scenic-byway/
Byway video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOaO3leBC3Q
For more information: https://nsbfoundation.com/sb/toledo-bend-forest-scenic-byway/