The mountain bike trail system at Bogue Chitto State Park near Franklinton, Louisiana is now serving as a dynamic “outdoor classroom,” promoting physical education, experiential learning and social development for homeschool families across the region.
The trail is a professionally designed system with progressive skill development, flow trails, technical features, and jump lines that serve riders of all ages and abilities.
The trail system was developed through a long-term partnership between Louisiana State Parks and the Northshore Off-Road Bicycling Association (NORBA). Initially designed to draw riders on weekends and expand outdoor tourism opportunities, park data and on-the-ground observation now show consistent midweek, providing a outdoor recreation that pairs with education for the community.
Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser said the success of the trail system demonstrates how strategic outdoor investments can benefit both tourism and local families. “Our state parks are more than destinations – they are places where Louisiana families connect, learn, and grow,” said Lt. Governor Nungesser. “Seeing homeschool students using Bogue Chitto’s mountain bike trails as part of their curriculum shows exactly why we continue investing in outdoor recreation. These trails are strengthening families, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and creating lifelong appreciation for Louisiana’s natural resources.”
“This park has become part of our curriculum,” said a local homeschool parent. “It’s physical education, socialization, and environmental learning all in one place. The kids gain confidence, resilience, and independence – and they learn alongside other families.”
According to Toby Cortez, development coordinator for NORBA, the homeschool community’s embrace of the park reflects a broader shift in how public lands are meeting modern community needs.
“We expected to see families on weekends,” Cortez said. “What we didn’t fully anticipate was how important this park would become during the week for homeschool families who need meaningful physical education options. Seeing full parking lots on weekday mornings tells us we built something that truly serves the community.”
For more information visit lastateparks.com.
