Forest Hill Airport

Forest Hill Airport-3F5 sits about 10 miles southeast of Alexandria, Louisiana, serving as a general aviation facility for central Louisiana. The airport has a single runway oriented 17/35, measuring 3,200 feet in length, and is home to a small but welcoming community of pilots and flight enthusiasts. Known for its smooth asphalt surface and picturesque surroundings of pine forests and farmland, the airport attracts both local aviators and visitors seeking a quiet base for hunting, recreation, or flight training. The friendly staff and open atmosphere make it a favored stop for those traveling through the region.

Getting There

Forest Hill Airport-3F5 is located on Highway 112, about 10 miles southeast of Alexandria, Louisiana. From Alexandria, take US-71 south to LA-112 east, then continue for approximately 5 miles. The airport entrance is marked with a small sign on the right. By car, the drive takes about 15 minutes from downtown Alexandria. There is no public transportation directly to the airport; renting a car is the most practical option for visitors arriving from larger cities like Baton Rouge (about 90 miles southeast) or Shreveport (about 100 miles northwest). On-site parking is available adjacent to the terminal, with a wheelchair-accessible car park noted among the confirmed facilities. The airport is not served by commercial airlines, so access is limited to general aviation aircraft or personal vehicles. Pilots should note that the field is open during daylight hours only, as it lacks obstruction lighting for night operations.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal at Forest Hill Airport-3F5 is a modest single-story building with a small waiting area, a pilot lounge, and basic restrooms. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, reflecting the airport's role as a community hub rather than a commercial transit point. Upon arrival, a courtesy car is often available for pilots needing to run errands or explore the area. The staff, typically a manager or volunteer, can assist with local information, fuel requests (100LL avgas is available through self-serve pumps), and tie-down arrangements. The runway is well-maintained and smooth, as noted by frequent users. The lack of air traffic control means pilots communicate on a common traffic advisory frequency. The terminal is not staffed around the clock; it is best to call ahead if arriving outside typical business hours. The wheelchair-accessible car park is located directly in front of the terminal, making entry straightforward. There is no restaurant or concessions, so visitors should bring their own snacks and drinks.

Forest Hill Airport-3F5 and the Region

Forest Hill Airport-3F5 is situated in the heart of Louisiana's Kisatchie National Forest, a region defined by rolling hills, longleaf pine savannas, and abundant wildlife. This is prime hunting country, particularly for deer, turkey, and waterfowl, and many pilots fly in specifically for seasonal hunts. The airport's location provides easy access to the forest's recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The nearby town of Forest Hill is small, with a population of around 400, but offers basic amenities such as a grocery store and a few local diners. Alexandria, the nearest city, has larger retail options, hospitals, and cultural attractions like the Alexandria Museum of Art and the Kent Plantation House.

What makes this airport truly worth visiting is its role as a gateway to a less-traveled part of Louisiana. The surrounding area is rich in Cajun and Creole heritage, with small communities that host festivals, music, and authentic cuisine. Pilots often use Forest Hill as a stopover while exploring the state's network of rural airports, or as a base for paramotor training—a niche activity for which the airport is well-regarded. The open skies and light traffic make it ideal for flight instruction and recreational flying. The airport also serves as a gathering point for local aviation events, including cookouts and fly-ins, fostering a sense of camaraderie among those who use it.

For non-aviation visitors, the region offers a slower pace of life and a chance to experience Louisiana beyond New Orleans. The Kisatchie National Forest covers more than 600,000 acres and includes scenic drives, trails, and the Wild Azalea Trail, the state's longest hiking trail. The nearby Cane River National Heritage Area showcases historic plantations and Creole architecture. Hunting remains a primary draw; the deer population is healthy, and guided hunts are available from local outfitters. Whether for a weekend hunt or a quiet getaway, Forest Hill Airport-3F5 provides an accessible, friendly starting point.

Practical Information

Forest Hill Airport-3F5 is open during daylight hours seven days a week, though the terminal building may have limited staff presence. The airport can be reached by phone at (318) 748-4297, and the full-service fuel pump is self-serve with a credit card reader. There is no dedicated website, but information is available through the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Aviation. Pilots should check NOTAMs for any runway closures or hazards, as the field occasionally hosts animal crossings. The busiest times tend to be mid-morning on weekdays (Monday 11 am, Tuesday 6 am, Wednesday 10 am, and Thursday midnight - note that midnight likely refers to an unusual late-night peak, possibly from hunting charters).

One concrete piece of advice: call ahead before flying in, especially during hunting season (October to January), to confirm fuel availability and parking space. The runway is smooth and well-kept, but be mindful of soft shoulders after heavy rain. For visitors, pack insect repellent and sunscreen—the Louisiana climate is humid and mosquitoes thrive. Lastly, bring your own refreshments, as the nearest restaurant is a few miles away in Forest Hill.