Ville Platte to Simmesport LA – April 24

It was a very hot and muggy night in the tent last night at Chicot State Park. I slept in my sleeping bag liner and left the sleeping bag packed up for the night.   I got on the road just after 8am this morning under cloudy skies. The ride was uneventful as we passed by farms growing rice, corn, wheat and other things. The number of dogs that chase us each day has increased since entering Louisiana. Today I outsprinted about 10 dogs. 

We passed through St. Landry, Bunkie, Evergreen and Cottonport before finding a place to stop for a coffee and short break after about 34 miles, in Moreauville. 

When we reached Hamburg we followed Old LA 1 until Simmesport. Old LA 1 is a bumpy and rough road. If I was to ride this route again, I’d get on SR 1 just before Hamburg and follow it east to Simmesport. SR 1 has smooth pavement and a wide shoulder.  

We camped at the Yellow Bayou Civil War Park.  This park ranks quite low on my list of places to stay. Poor bathrooms, no showers, long grass and trash.  Showers are available at a truck stop down the road.