By Wes Harris
Often recognized for its mountain bike trail and outstanding campground, the Lincoln Parish Park has added a new amenity. The Lincoln Parish Police Jury, which operates the park, has partnered with Trailblazer Resource Conservation and Development and other sponsors to add a 3-D archery range on the premises.
Police Juror Glenn Scriber spearheaded the project after observing high participation at a similar range in Texas.
Unlike a typical shooting or archery range with flat paper targets, a 3-D range uses three-dimensional animal targets to challenge archers at each station. To mimic a real-life hunting experience, the life-size foam targets are set up on different trails so that the archer does not know their location and must take shots uphill, downhill, in thick woods, and in other situations.
Similar ranges are being constructed elsewhere in Louisiana to accommodate the rising popularity of the sport.
Shooting sports, including archery, are now among the most popular programs in Louisiana 4-H clubs. In 2019, Team Louisiana brought home the highest award from the 4-H Shooting Sports National Championship, the championship sweepstakes. Lincoln Parish youth participated in winning the championship.
Trailblazer RC&D is a locally sponsored and directed non-profit organization aiding north Louisiana parishes in developing and conserving resources. The purpose of Trailblazer is to improve the quality of life in local communities. Other sponsors of the range include businesses and individuals.
The park’s mountain bike trail is rated the best in the South and improvements to the campground has made the park the first choice of many RV campers. The hiking trails and summer swimming in the lake are popular as well.
The range is located away from other park activities for safety. For fees, hours of operation and range rules, contact the park 318-251-5156. The park is located at 211 Parish Park Road off Louisiana Highway 33.
