Camping spots near Alexandria, Louisiana range from fully developed recreational areas to primitive sites in the tall pines of Kisatchie National Forest. The region sits at relatively low elevations between 100-200 feet above sea level, characterized by rolling hills, pine forests, and several lakes created through dam projects. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring camping can bring occasional thunderstorms and flash flooding along forest trails.
What to do
Paddle non-motorized waters: Valentine Lake offers a 46-acre lake where motorized boats aren't permitted. "Motorized boats are not allowed on lake. Get there early because we saw only 12 sites to occupy," notes a reviewer at Valentine Lake Northshore Campground. The lake provides a serene environment for kayaking and canoeing.
Hike the Wild Azalea Trail: This 26-mile trail connects multiple camping areas and offers backcountry camping options. A hiker at Valentine Lake reported, "I hiked about 7.5 miles in from the Valentine Lake trailhead to a large clearing by the bridge with a nice cool stream. There are other clearings nearby which would be great for a small group camp."
Wildlife viewing: Lakes and forests support diverse wildlife. "We have stayed here twice—first, at site 52 and then at site 56. We appreciated the shade, two handy trees for our hammock, the ducks on the lake, and the sound of the wind blowing through the tall grass," commented a camper at Indian Creek Recreation Area.
What campers like
Lakefront camping sites: Several campgrounds offer direct lake access from individual campsites. At Kincaid Lake Recreation Area, a reviewer appreciated the "Small campground lots of shade, trails, lake, beach, biking, stores nearby. Secluded and very peaceful."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more solitude, primitive sites offer fewer amenities but more privacy. "This is where we go car camping in their primitive section. There are many, many car camping campsites on the lake/reservoir! The campsites are basic tenting areas with no improvements such as fire rings, tables, trash barrels, tent platforms, etc. There is some privacy and separation between campsites," notes a camper about Indian Creek.
Well-maintained facilities: Many campers mention clean facilities as a highlight. At Hidden Treasure RV Resort, visitors found "Bath house is sqeeky clean. Laundry available on site. The owners are sweet and very accommodating!"
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region can experience extreme conditions. Camp during spring and fall for optimal temperatures, as summer brings intense heat and humidity. Winter camping is possible but prepare for occasional freezing temperatures at night.
Uneven terrain at some sites: Many campgrounds have sloping sites requiring leveling blocks. One camper at Cotile Recreation Area noted, "Our site was kind of on a hill, and camper sat funny. If we go back it won't be to the B side."
Hurricane recovery: Some areas continue to recover from storm damage. "The forest received serious impact from Hurricanes Laura and Delta in the fall of 2020. The campground has been closed since. I spoke to forest service personnel on site, in August of 2021. I inquired about the reopening of the campground and was told that they were projecting it to reopen in 2025."
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds within Kisatchie National Forest have spotty or no cell reception. Download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly recreation areas: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families with young children. "I would like to start by saying this is a campground that is designed for young families, from the multiple sandy beach areas to the playgrounds, there was lot for my elementary age children to do," reports a visitor to Indian Creek.
Supervised swimming areas: Several lake areas include designated swimming beaches with sandy areas for children. Look for locations with marked swimming boundaries away from fishing zones.
Playground options: Campgrounds like Loran Site Complex offer space for kids to play. "The sites are well shaded, even, spacious, and far enough away from your neighbors that you have the sense of privacy," notes one reviewer.
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is important for families. Keep food secured and teach children about respecting local wildlife including alligators, snakes, and insects common to the area.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions vary: Many campgrounds have a mix of site sizes and configurations. "We have a 21' travel trailer and barely fit it and our Toyota Tundra in site 52. The lake was visible when standing inside the camper (driver side) but not from our chairs by the fire," reported one RVer.
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks as many sites require them. "Site 19 was quite unlevel, but nothing a few leveling blocks couldn't handle," mentioned a camper at Hidden Treasure RV Resort.
Limited full hookups: While many sites offer water and electric, full hookup sites can be scarce. "Sites 1-7 have full hook-ups and others have water and electric. There is a dump station," notes a camper about Cotile Recreation Area.
Access considerations: Some forest roads can be challenging for larger RVs. Research specific campgrounds for big rig accessibility before arrival.
