A Quiet Powerhouse of Timber, Tradition, and Outdoor Adventure
Caldwell Parish is a scenic, rural parish in North Central Louisiana known for its natural beauty, rich timberlands, agricultural roots, and close-knit communities. From its peaceful backroads to its forested hills and bayous, Caldwell Parish offers a genuine taste of Louisiana country life—where the economy is driven by forestry, farming, and family-owned businesses.
Whether you're seeking land, peace and quiet, outdoor exploration, or business in a community with deep roots, Caldwell Parish offers lasting value and opportunity.
Where is Caldwell Parish Located?
Caldwell Parish is located in North Central Louisiana, bordered by:
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Ouachita Parish to the north
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LaSalle Parish to the south
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Winn Parish to the west
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Catahoula Parish to the east
The parish lies along U.S. Highway 165, which connects it to Monroe (about 40 minutes north) and Alexandria (about an hour south), making it a convenient location for rural living with access to larger cities and commercial hubs.
Towns and Communities in Caldwell Parish
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Columbia (Parish Seat) – A quiet town nestled along the Ouachita River, Columbia is the cultural and civic heart of the parish, featuring a charming historic downtown, local businesses, and the courthouse square.
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Grayson – A small town just south of Columbia known for its residential neighborhoods, school community, and access to outdoor recreation.
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Clarks – A historically rich community once centered around the timber and railroad industries, still proud of its small-town character.
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Kelly, Banks Springs, and Hebert – Rural communities and unincorporated areas with farms, hunting camps, churches, and family-run businesses.
What Is Caldwell Parish Known For?
Caldwell Parish is best known for:
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Forests and Timberlands – Thousands of acres of pine and hardwood forests support a thriving lumber and pulpwood industry.
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Outdoor recreation – With proximity to the Ouachita River, wildlife management areas, and Kisatchie National Forest, the area is a paradise for hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking.
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Small-town values – A peaceful, low-crime parish where tradition, family, and hard work define daily life.
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Historic charm – Especially in downtown Columbia, with preserved architecture, antique shops, and community events.
Tourism & Outdoor Attractions in Caldwell Parish
Caldwell Parish is ideal for eco-tourism, heritage travel, and outdoor recreation.
Ouachita River
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Runs through Columbia and is central to outdoor life in the parish.
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Offers boating, fishing, kayaking, and scenic views year-round.
Caldwell Parish Museum & Historic Downtown Columbia
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Features exhibits on pioneer life, timber, agriculture, and the Civil War.
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Downtown hosts antique stores, cafes, and civic events in a quaint, walkable setting.
Boeuf Wildlife Management Area
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A sprawling area of bottomland hardwood forests, perfect for:
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Duck and deer hunting
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Wildlife photography
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Hiking and seasonal birdwatching
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Kisatchie National Forest (Catahoula District nearby)
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Close to Caldwell Parish and ideal for camping, horseback riding, and off-road exploring.
Annual Events
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Columbia’s Christmas Festival
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Community fairs and 4-H livestock shows
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Fishing tournaments on the Ouachita River
Industry in Caldwell Parish
Caldwell Parish’s economy is rural, resilient, and resource-based, with major sectors including:
Forestry and Timber
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The dominant industry in the parish.
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Home to timber companies, sawmills, wood processing plants, and related trucking and service businesses.
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Private forestland management is common among landowners, with long-term investment in sustainable harvesting.
Agriculture and Ranching
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Cattle operations and hay production are prevalent across rural areas.
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Row crops such as soybeans, corn, and oats are grown in rotation.
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Backyard farming and seasonal produce contribute to local farmers’ markets and co-ops.
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Poultry and small livestock farms are gaining traction as supplemental income for rural families.
Small Business and Local Services
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Family-owned stores, auto repair, local cafes, banks, construction services, and churches make up the parish’s economic framework.
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Workforce training and agriculture education are supported through school partnerships and 4-H.
Why Caldwell Parish Offers Unique Opportunity
Caldwell Parish is perfect for:
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Landowners and hunters looking for affordable rural property with timber value.
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Investors in forestry, farming, or eco-tourism.
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Families seeking a peaceful, low-cost lifestyle near but not in a city.
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Remote workers who want to live with nature, while staying connected to larger markets via U.S. 165.
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Outdoor enthusiasts and travelers wanting a quiet Louisiana getaway.
This parish is about roots, resilience, and rural success. If you’re looking for meaningful land, strong community ties, and room to grow—Caldwell Parish is a hidden gem in Louisiana’s living and business landscape.