Tancock Prairie
The Tancocki Prairies on the Winn Ranger District in central Louisiana are some of the best sites for wildflower viewing on the Kisatchie National Forest. The Tancock Prairie complex is made up of numerous, small prairie openings that are surrounded by mixed pine and hardwood forests. The calcareous clay soils in these openings tend to become extremely dry during the summer, so pines and large hardwoods do not thrive in them. These sunny openings support a wide variety of grasses and herbs, many of which are found only in prairies.
Wildflowers bloom on the Tancock Prairies from early March through December, but are especially colorful and abundant in the spring and fall. Although small, these prairie openings support a wide variety of species. The Tancock Prairies offer some of the most beautiful and unique sites for wildflower viewing in Louisiana.
General Information
No fee required for this site.
Address: 12319 U.S. Highway 84 West Winnfield, LA 71483
Phone: (318)628-4664
Hours: Due to staffing issues, office may be closed. Please call first. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Directions
Although most of the Tancock Prairie openings are not easy to find because they are surrounded by dense woodland, a few occur along roads or trails and are relatively accessible. Bear Creek Prairie is the best example in the Tancock Prairie complex which is southwest of Packton.
Directions to specific prairies openings are best obtained from the Winn Ranger District office west of Winnfield on US Hwy 84. Office hours are 7:30 am to 4:00 pm M-F except on holidays. The address and phone number is as follows:
Winn Ranger District 9671 U.S. Hwy 84 West Winnfield, LA 71483 (318) 628-4664.
Facility and Amenity Information
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Outdoor Science and Learning
Viewing Plants
Viewing Wildlife