Editing Alexandria, Louisiana (section)

==Parks and outdoor attractions==
[[File:Scene at Alexandria (LA) Zoo Picture 299.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Greenery at Alexandria Zoo]]

===Alexandria Zoological Park===

{{Main|Alexandria Zoological Park}}

The [[Alexandria Zoological Park]] is a {{convert|33|acre|ha|adj=on}} zoo first opened to the public in 1926. Owned by the City of Alexandria and operated by the Division of Public Works, it is home to about 500 animals and includes an award-winning Louisiana Habitat exhibit. The zoo is accredited by the [[Association of Zoos and Aquariums]] (AZA) and takes part in about 20 [[Species Survival Plan]]s (SSP) as part of its conservation efforts.<ref>{{cite web |title=Currently Accredited Zoos and Aquariums |url=https://www.aza.org/current-accreditation-list?locale=en#A |website=AZA |publisher=Association of Zoos and Aquariums |access-date=22 June 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Endangered Species: Species Survival Plan |url=https://thealexandriazoo.com/EndangeredSpecies.html |website=Alexandria Zoo |publisher=Alexandria Zoological Park |access-date=22 June 2022}}</ref>

=== Cotile Lake Recreation Area ===
Cotile Lake is a man-made [[Reservoir|impoundment]] located in the uplands approximately {{convert|15|mi|km|0}} west-northwest of Alexandria, Louisiana. The lake is approximately {{convert|1775|acre|km2|0}} in size and was completed in October 1965. The Louisiana Wild Life and Fisheries Commission stocked this impoundment with the proper species and number of game fish in 1965–66 shortly after its completion date. The recreational facilities include a large area cleared and zoned for swimming with complete bath house facilities nearby. There is a [[water skiing]] area that is cleared and snagged for safety of the skiers. The picnic and camping areas are modern and complete. There is also space available for campers.

=== Indian Creek Lake and Recreation Area ===
Encompasses a {{convert|2250|acre|km2|0|adj=on}} lake, {{convert|100|acre|km2|1}} of developed recreation facilities and a {{convert|250|acre|km2}} primitive camping area all within the Alexander State Forest. The lake, located in central Louisiana, was constructed as a joint venture of the Louisiana Forestry Commission, the Rapides Parish Police Jury, and the Lower West Red River Soil and Water Conservation District as a reservoir for agricultural irrigation in times of need and for recreation purposes.

The recreation area camping area contains 109 campsites with conventional full utility hookups, 3 beaches for [[swimming (sport)|swimming]], bath houses, a boat launch, and 75 picnic sites. A covered pavilion within the developed area provides for groups up to 100 people. The recreation area is open year-round and operates on user fees.

=== Kisatchie National Forest ===
Alexandria sits in the middle of the [[Kisatchie National Forest]]. Ranger districts are north, northwest, west and southwest of the city. An abundance of large timberlands and forest nurseries, as well as lake and recreation areas, are within a short driving distance.