Ashland is a small town located in northern Louisiana, United States. Located in Natchitoches Parish, Ashland is approximately 35 miles southeast of Shreveport and 35 miles northwest of Natchitoches. The town is known for its rural charm, friendly community atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. With a population of around 300 residents, Ashland maintains a close-knit community feel while offering essential services and amenities. The area surrounding Ashland consists primarily of forests, farmland, and gently rolling hills.
While Ashland may be small, it boasts a rich history and several notable landmarks. One of the town’s major landmarks is the historic Ashland Baptist Church, which has served as a focal point for community gatherings and events for many years. Additionally, Ashland is located near the Kisatchie National Forest, a popular destination for outdoor recreation and scenic beauty.
Geography and Climate
Ashland is located in the Southern United States and is part of the Gulf Coastal Plain region. The town’s location in Natchitoches Parish influences its weather patterns, with its proximity to the Red River affecting its climate. The surrounding geography consists of flat to gently rolling terrain, with forests and agricultural land dominating the area.
Climate and Weather Overview
Average Climate Data
The following table presents average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Ashland, Louisiana:
| Month | Average Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 52 | 4.3 | 12 |
| February | 56 | 4.1 | 13 |
| March | 63 | 4.9 | 14 |
| April | 70 | 4.5 | 15 |
| May | 78 | 5.2 | 16 |
| June | 84 | 4.9 | 17 |
| July | 87 | 4.5 | 18 |
| August | 87 | 4.1 | 18 |
| September | 82 | 4.1 | 16 |
| October | 73 | 3.5 | 15 |
| November | 63 | 4.2 | 13 |
| December | 55 | 4.0 | 12 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Ashland brings cool temperatures and occasional rainfall. The average temperature is around 52°F, with precipitation averaging 4.3 inches. While snow is rare in Ashland, occasional winter storms may bring light accumulations to the area. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, attending community events, and enjoying cozy evenings by the fireplace are popular choices during January. Outdoor enthusiasts may still enjoy activities such as hiking and birdwatching in nearby forests, weather permitting.
February
February sees similar weather patterns to January, with cool temperatures and moderate precipitation. The average temperature rises slightly to 56°F, with rainfall averaging 4.1 inches. While outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather, residents and visitors can still enjoy exploring the town’s historic sites and scenic trails. February also offers opportunities for attending indoor cultural events, such as concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Ashland, with temperatures starting to warm up. The average temperature is around 63°F, and precipitation levels increase to 4.9 inches. While rain showers are common, sunny days become more frequent as spring blooms emerge. Outdoor activities such as gardening, hiking, and picnicking are popular choices during March. Additionally, residents may start preparing their gardens for planting and attending community events such as spring festivals and farmers’ markets.
April
April brings milder temperatures to Ashland, with the average temperature reaching 70°F. Precipitation levels remain steady at 4.5 inches, but sunny days become more prevalent. The town bursts into color as flowers bloom and trees leaf out, providing picturesque backdrops for outdoor activities such as picnics and nature walks. April also offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and exploring nearby parks and nature reserves.
May
May heralds the arrival of warmer weather in Ashland, with temperatures averaging 78°F. Precipitation levels increase slightly to 5.2 inches, but sunny days dominate the forecast. Residents and visitors alike flock outdoors to enjoy the sunshine, with activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring local trails. May also offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and attending outdoor concerts and festivals.
June
June brings peak summer conditions to Ashland, with temperatures averaging 84°F. Precipitation levels remain steady at 4.9 inches, but sunny days are still abundant. The town buzzes with activity as residents and visitors take advantage of the warm weather to enjoy outdoor pursuits such as swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. June also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and attending outdoor events and concerts.
July
July sees the height of summer in Ashland, with temperatures reaching an average of 87°F. Precipitation levels remain steady at 4.5 inches, but sunny days continue to prevail. Residents and visitors flock to nearby lakes and rivers to cool off in the water or relax on the shore. Water sports such as kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding are popular choices, while evenings are perfect for outdoor barbecues and stargazing.
August
August maintains the warmth of summer in Ashland, with temperatures averaging 87°F. Precipitation levels remain steady at 4.1 inches, and sunny days continue to dominate the forecast. Outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring waterfalls are popular choices for residents and visitors seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. August also offers opportunities for attending outdoor concerts, visiting local farmers’ markets, and participating in water-based activities.
September
September brings the first hints of fall to Ashland, although temperatures remain warm. The average temperature is around 82°F, with precipitation levels decreasing slightly to 4.1 inches. While summer activities may start to wind down, residents and visitors can still enjoy outdoor pursuits such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. September also offers opportunities for attending fall festivals, apple picking, and exploring local vineyards and wineries.
October
October heralds the arrival of autumn in Ashland, with temperatures cooling to an average of 73°F. Precipitation levels decrease to 3.5 inches, but sunny days become less frequent. The area comes alive with fall foliage, providing scenic backdrops for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and scenic drives. October also offers opportunities for pumpkin picking, hayrides, and attending Halloween-themed events and haunted attractions.
November
November brings cooler temperatures to Ashland, with the average temperature dropping to 63°F. Precipitation levels remain steady at 4.2 inches, and sunny days become increasingly rare. Residents may start preparing for the winter months by winterizing their homes and gardens. Outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing may still be enjoyed, weather permitting. Indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending art classes, and cooking workshops become more popular as the weather cools.
December
December marks the onset of winter in Ashland, with temperatures averaging 55°F. Precipitation levels increase to 4.0 inches, with occasional rainfall and light snowfall possible. While outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather, residents and visitors can still enjoy seasonal festivities such as holiday markets, tree lighting ceremonies, and carriage rides. Indoor activities such as baking, crafting, and attending holiday concerts provide opportunities for cozy gatherings with family and friends.