Robert L. Nance Park encompasses 20 acres that drop down from mixed pine-hardwood forest to the cypress-lined southern shore of Black Bayou Lake. Just 30 miles north of Shreveport, this isolated site is perfect for folks needing to get away from it all.
A couple of short unmarked primitive trails lead from both sides of the parking area back uphill into this forest. Check here for common year round mixed forest species such as Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-headed, Red-bellied, and Downy Woodpeckers, White-breasted and Brown-headed Nuthatches, and Pine Warbler.
The park’s access road drops quickly down into the southeastern end of Black Bayou Lake, equipped with a large parking area, restrooms, long fishing/observation pier, and boat launch. During the winter months you’ll want to take advantage of the long pier and check for waterfowl and other waterbirds with a spotting scope. Typical duck species here include Gadwall, Lesser Scaup, and Common Goldeneye. Other waterbirds of interest include Pied-billed Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Bald Eagle, and Belted Kingfisher. Bald cypress trees grow throughout the lake, especially along its banks. Check these areas for Wood Duck, Great Egret, Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, Green Heron, Pileated Woodpecker, Barred Owl, and Winter Wren. In summer, both Prothonotary and Yellow-throated Warblers nest here amongst the cypresses.
An old oilfield road running through areas of tall grasses and thickets is inhabited by species such as White-eyed Vireo, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Common Yellowthroat, Northern Cardinal, both Indigo and Painted Buntings, and Dickcissel.
Outdoor recreational opportunities include birding, paddling, fishing, and nature photography. Amenities at this small site include parking, identification signage, restrooms, a boat launch, a fishing pier, a picnic area, and a playground. The site is partially handicapped-accessible.
