by Christine Baker
After a long winter of lockdowns, restrictions, face coverings and even a week of cold, ice and snow, unusual circumstances for even the bravest of us here in the deep south, my family and I, at the first hint of warm weather, headed out for some fresh air.
From the back seat my grown son, who had tagged along for the ride, piped up, “I know exactly where we need to go,” and led us to the best kept secret in Pineville.
Secluded among various tall pines and hardwood trees, between the Red River and Buhlow Lake by the Pineville Airport (yes, there’s an airport in Pineville), we found Fort Buhlow Recreation Area. It was just what our arms, legs and minds needed – a breath of fresh southern spring air.
As we walked around the paved windy trails, perfect for someone in a wheelchair or on a bicycle, too, a light breeze flowed through the trees and we relished the warm sun and coming change of seasons. I wondered how we had lived near here for eleven years and never heard of this place before.
Since the past is gone and not able to be altered, what mattered most to me now was that we had found out about the secret and would henceforth take full advantage of it whenever possible.
The website at Red River Waterway Commission boasts much information about Fort Buhlow Recreation Area. It lists a: 3 lane boat launch, boat dock, 3 picnic shelters, picnic tables, hiking trails, cross country course, playground, playfield and much more. It’s a great place for families to bring a picnic and a fishing pole and enjoy an afternoon of fun, sun and exercise close to home.
It doesn’t mention a sweetheart bench nestled along the edge of some trees looking out over the grass, but take my word for it, there’s one.
The best kept secret in Pineville is very easy to find right off of the Curtis Coleman Bridge (formerly the O.K. Allen Bridge) on U. S. 71 and 165.
So, in this ever-changing world, even here in the south, where rules rule the day and try to take over our lives, a quick get-away with the freedom to enjoy God’s creation is still possible. I’m thankful for the men and women who came before me, who had the inspiration and tenacity to build a beautiful park for all who will take the time to enjoy it.
The best kept secret in Pineville is no longer a secret – it’s Fort Buhlow Recreation Area!
As my husband always says, “Good eating, good loving, good shopping and now, good hiking!”