For a wide-ranging introduction to Vernon parish's history and abundant natural beauty, start your tour at the Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex, situated in the 65,000-acre Kisatchie National Forest and the only national forest in Louisiana. This was once the site of the Fullerton Sawmill and community—one of the largest sawmill operations in the South. Hike or bike the 1.6 Fullerton Mill Trail and you'll spot the ruins of the abandoned mill while winding through bald cypress groves and pines. Relax with a picnic lunch on the banks of Fullerton Lake or enjoy an afternoon on the water, where you might spot a red-cockaded woodpecker (or two). Fishers take note: abundant catfish, bass, and perch inhabit the lake, so pack your fishing poles, too. Extend your experience by overnighting at the Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex, which offers camping areas for trailers, campers, and tents, fire rings, bank fishing, non-motorized boat launch and boating, hiking and biking trails, water, and restrooms.
Tim Mueller Photography
Vernon Parish Tourism
Wolf Rock Cave is the only known rock shelter in Louisiana to have been used by early indigenous people.
Louisiana is famous for its cypress groves and swamps, but did you know it’s the site of an ancient rock formation too? In the Vernon Unit of the Kisatchie Forest Calcasieu Ranger District, you’ll find Wolf Rock Cave, a cave system believed to be over 30 million years old, which archaeological evidence suggests was used by indigenous people for shelter. More recently (but not that recently) during the Civil War, the Union Army used these caves to hide supplies and horses. These days, those who hike the short trail to the caves should keep their eyes peeled in case a prehistoric projectile point or a Civil War artifact peeks out from the dirt.
Before sunset, drive out towards Pitkin to explore the mysterious Talbert Pierson Cemetery. The graves here, which date from the 1880s to the 1940s, are protected by “gravehouses,” unusual historical structures built to protect graves and their occupants from being unearthed by wild animals. Studded with shells, the fifteen gravehouses at Talbert Pierson Cemetery are the last resting place of members of the Talbert and Pierson pioneer families.
1 of 3
Tim Mueller Photography
The Talbert-Pierson Cemetery in Cravens reportedly has the largest number of existing grave houses of any cemetery in the United States.
2 of 3
Allen Acres Bed & Breakfast
3 of 3
Tim Mueller Photography
Anacoco Lake lies to the west of Leesville
Another great place to spend the night is Allen Acres Bed and Breakfast, a charming property situated on 26 acres of woods and cultivated gardens designed to be a haven for native plant species, and the hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators they attract. After a restful night and breakfast made with fresh yard eggs from the resident chicken flock, you might spend a day learning to identify native plants with Louisiana native plant expert Dr. Charles Allen, who owns this property, as your guide. Take a morning stroll through the gardens, sign up for a Plant ID or Edible Plant class, or collect ingredients for a wild salad, tea, and herbs for homemade bread.
Photos by Rickie Smith - High Octane Images
Fighting vehicles on display at the Fort Johnson/Fort Polk Military Museum
On the way to Leesville, don’t miss the Fort Johnson/Fort Polk Museum, which traces the history of the Army at Fort Polk from World War II, through the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War and up to the present day. The museum presents artifacts from the base’s infantry training center—the U.S. Army’s largest from 1962 to 1976—as well as tanks, assorted other fighting vehicles, and lots more.
1 of 2
Leesville Art Park
2 of 2
Photo by Rickie Smith
Train Station in Leesville - North of New Llano
The Museum of West Louisiana reflects the heritage of Vernon Parish, including its rich railroad history. Photo by Rickie Smith, High Octane Images.
Finally, back in Leesville, save time for a picnic and an afternoon stroll at the Leesville Art Park. Part of Gallery One Ellleven and the Art 4 the Park Committee, the Leesville Art Park hosts a collection of contemporary sculptural pieces by local and regional artists.
In Louisiana Legend Country, there’s always more to explore. Visit LegendCountry.com to get started.
