Ahtus Melder Camp and Rustic Sky Horse Camp provide equestrian-friendly camping options near Eunice, Louisiana, located within the Kisatchie National Forest's Evangeline District. The Kisatchie National Forest spans over 600,000 acres across central and northern Louisiana, with the Evangeline Unit containing approximately 100,000 acres of mixed pine and hardwood forest. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and high humidity levels creating challenging camping conditions during peak months.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Riders at Ahtus Melder Camp can access the Claiborne Trail system, which requires a $5 daily access fee. "This campground is free and will accommodate RV's, tents, and trailers. No facilities, totally primitive," notes camper N I.
Wildlife viewing: The forest surrounding equestrian camping areas hosts diverse wildlife including whitetail deer, wild turkey, and numerous bird species. Morning hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities when animals are most active.
Photography excursions: The surrounding forest landscape provides natural settings for photography enthusiasts. Seasonal changes bring distinctive visual elements, from spring wildflowers to autumn color variations in the hardwood sections.
What campers like
Spacious layout: The open design at horse campgrounds near Eunice, Louisiana allows for comfortable spacing between camping units. One visitor to Ahtus Melder Camp noted, "This is a really great spot and plenty of room for all. Great open green space for grazing. No reason to park next to your neighbor."
Natural shade protection: Mature forest canopy provides welcome relief during hot Louisiana summers. "Very open and it has nice mature trees," reports camper N I., highlighting the natural shade available throughout the campground.
Cost efficiency: Budget-conscious equestrians appreciate the free camping at primitive sites. "FREE FCFS" (first-come, first-served) notes a reviewer, making these horse camping options accessible without reservation requirements or fees.
What you should know
Weather impacts: Louisiana's climate significantly affects camping conditions at these locations. "Site is well maintained but if it has rained it could be very muddy," warns one Rustic Sky Horse Camp visitor, indicating the importance of checking weather forecasts before arrival.
Road condition challenges: Access roads to primitive camping areas may present difficulties. "If you follow the road/concrete path, you may lose a tire or axil bc the road is in BAD condition," cautions Paula W. about areas beyond the main camping loop at Ahtus Melder Camp.
Limited facilities: Campers must prepare for self-sufficient stays at primitive locations. "There is not much to this campground... Nothing else to indicate a campground (other than the sign)," shares Paula W., emphasizing the basic nature of these sites.
Tips for camping with families
Supply planning: When camping with children at primitive equestrian sites near Eunice, bring all necessary supplies including drinking water, food, and emergency items. The undeveloped nature of these areas requires comprehensive preparation.
Activity scheduling: Morning and evening hours offer more comfortable temperatures for family activities during summer months. Daily temperature variations can exceed 20 degrees between dawn and midday.
Navigation preparation: Ahtus Melder Camp lacks clear internal signage, potentially confusing first-time visitors. "As soon as you enter the area, there is a small loopped grassy area with lots of trees. Nothing else to indicate a campground," notes one visitor, suggesting families should arrive during daylight hours.
Tips from RVers
Surface considerations: RV campers should assess ground conditions carefully before positioning vehicles, especially after rainfall. The clay-rich soil in this region becomes particularly problematic when wet.
Resource management: With no hookups available at primitive horse camping locations near Eunice, RV campers must plan for self-contained operation. Generator use should follow forest service quiet hours regulations.
Spacing awareness: The open layout allows for strategic RV positioning. "Great open green space... No reason to park next to your neighbor," notes a visitor, suggesting RVers can maximize privacy by utilizing the available space effectively.
