Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site

History buffs and birders will be drawn to this site in downtown Pineville. The visitor center includes exhibits about the Civil War’s Red River Campaign in Louisiana. 

The best birding access is from the parking area just behind the visitor's center. Pierson Lake is located down a small ridge from the parking area. An elevated boardwalk leads from the parking area into mixed pine-hardwoods. The bird community inhabiting these forests includes species such as Mississippi Kite, Broad-winged Hawk, and Brown Thrasher, joined in winter by nearctic species such as Blue-headed Vireo, American Robin, and Orange-crowned and Yellow-rumped Warblers. A Bald Eagle’s nest (fall through spring) is located above this boardwalk. 

A paved trail leads down a ridge between Pierson Lake and the Red River. This trail continues beneath a highway overpass and up a ridge linking to Lake Buhlow. In and around the water, look for waterfowl (fall/winter/spring), such as Wood Duck and Pied-billed Grebe, as well as other waterbirds and various swallows. 

A large power line right-of-way with tall vegetation and grasses hold many grassland and thicket-loving birds, as well as flycatchers and raptors, including Black and Turkey Vultures and Red-tailed Hawk. 

Three nature trails are found at this 100-acre complex: two raised/boardwalk trails and one primitive trail linking the two sites. Activities include biking, hiking, fishing, nature photography, and historical programs. Additional amenities include paved parking and restrooms. The fully-accessible site is open from Wednesday-Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.