Best Campgrounds near Alexandria, LA
Campgrounds around Alexandria, Louisiana include a mix of state forest sites, national forest areas, and recreational facilities with varied amenities. Indian Creek Recreation Area in Woodworth offers full-service campgrounds with tent, RV, and cabin options just 20 miles south of Alexandria. Several camping areas exist within the Kisatchie National Forest, including Valentine Lake Northshore Campground and Kincaid Lake Recreation Area, providing both developed and primitive sites. The region includes both free dispersed camping on public lands and established fee campgrounds with amenities, serving travelers seeking anything from basic tent sites to full RV hookups.
Road access to many campgrounds requires navigation through forested areas, with some sites better suited for smaller vehicles rather than large RVs. Several campgrounds offer both waterfront and wooded sites, with Valentine Lake and Kincaid Lake providing lake access for non-motorized boats and fishing opportunities. Facilities range from primitive sites with minimal amenities to developed campgrounds with electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dumps. Summer temperatures and humidity can be challenging, making spring and fall popular camping seasons. A visitor noted, "Inside the Kisatchie National Forest, Evangeline District lies this peaceful little oasis. Water, flush toilets, seclusion, lake, and fishing."
Waterfront camping sites tend to receive the highest ratings, with several campgrounds offering direct lake access for fishing and kayaking. Campers consistently mention the tall pine forests providing ample shade at sites like Indian Creek and Valentine Lake. While weekends can bring crowds to popular recreation areas, most campgrounds maintain a relatively quiet atmosphere, especially during weekdays. Reviews highlight the region's abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including sightings of alligators in lakes. "We found massive wasps nests and turtle shells on the forest floor, saw a gator while canoeing, and even saw an eagle," reported one camper at Valentine Lake. Many campgrounds in the area combine hiking access with water recreation, with the Wild Azalea Trail connecting to several camping areas for backpackers and day hikers.
