Cabin camping near Benton, Louisiana provides access to water-based recreation at several lakes and bayous within a 45-mile radius. The north Louisiana terrain features pine forests surrounding Wright Patman Lake, Lake Bistineau, and Cypress Black Bayou. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-55°F, while summer months regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, affecting cabin comfort.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area offers both shoreline fishing opportunities and boat rentals for anglers seeking deeper water. "Big sites, with a lot of them on the water. A lot have full hookups including sewer. Very quiet. Swim beaches and fishing piers," notes a visitor to Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing around cabins: Early morning walks near Lake Bistineau State Park cabins provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "I took an evening walk on the Discovery Trail and saw two deer. There are several other, longer trails," reports a camper at Lake Bistineau State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. At Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area, "There is much to do at this park. Trails, swimming, boating, fishing, small zoo and museum. Very clean. Newly renovated."
Kayaking through cypress trees: Caddo Lake State Park offers unique paddling experiences through moss-covered cypress forests. "Kayaking this area was BEAUTIFUL and just unforgettable from our trip to this part of the state. You get to camp among the trees and spanish moss and water," shares a visitor to Caddo Lake State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Visitors frequently comment on the quality of restroom facilities. "The bathhouse was heated and a welcome chance to shower in something other than a matchbox," according to a guest at Cypress Black Bayou.
Spacious cabin sites: Most cabin locations provide adequate separation between units. "I loved the spaciousness of each site leaving a lot of room between you and your neighbors," notes a Cypress Black Bayou visitor.
Small wildlife exhibits: Some parks offer educational opportunities beyond standard camping. "There is a small wildlife sanctuary (zoo but no petting) and free roaming peacocks," explains a camper at Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area.
Security measures: Parks maintain various security protocols to ensure guest safety. "[Cypress Black Bayou] is a parish ran park that is very well maintained. Security measures are excellent. There is a new bathhouse that is very clean and requires a code to be entered on a keypad for entry," writes a reviewer.
What you should know
Seasonal lake levels affect activities: Lake Bistineau experiences significant water level fluctuations. "Didn't realize they lowered the lake. My fault for not investigating more," notes a Lake Bistineau State Park cabin visitor.
Reservation requirements vary: Some parks enforce specific RV standards. A Cypress Black Bayou visitor reports, "Called to inquire on tent/dispersed camping on 1.14.21 and was told the park is currently closed except for 'certified' RV spots. Since our Sprinter is self sufficient it isn't considered certified, they wouldn't reserve a space for us."
Insects present year-round: Mosquitoes remain active even in cooler months. A visitor to Caddo Lake State Park warns, "The bugs are awful, the gators are a little scary, but that's the price you pay for the beauty."
Noise considerations: Road traffic can impact the cabin experience at some locations. A reviewer at Caddo Lake State Park cautions, "The site that we stayed at (#34) was too close to the main road and the noise from the cars was so loud, which led to an awful nights sleep."
Tips for camping with families
Zoo exhibits for children: Cypress Black Bayou maintains animal exhibits suitable for young visitors. A camper notes, "They have a fun little zoo on site," which provides educational opportunities for children between water activities.
Swimming precautions: Parents should monitor water conditions and wildlife. At Atlanta State Park Campground, a visitor advises, "Due to flooding and earth slides the beach front is super deep mud. If there has been even a trickle of rain on the past week you will lose your shoes the mud is so thick."
Playground availability: Some parks offer dedicated play areas. A reviewer at Atlanta State Park shares, "I think this is a great park for families to get away, but not get lost. They have play grounds and clean bathrooms. I would prep for muddy feet and bugs galore!"
Cabin alternatives for winter camping: For families camping outside summer months, cabins provide comfort advantages. At Caddo Lake State Park, a visitor explains, "We loved the cabin, it made winter camping with kids do-able! Loved hiking and exploring!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations between sites: Review site details carefully before booking. At Shreveport Bossier City KOA, a visitor notes, "Plenty of room for 44 ft motorhome and Jeep toad without unhooking. Grounds are well maintained and staff friendly."
Leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment equipment. At Atlanta State Park, a reviewer advises, "Pads are fairly level, only took 1 2x12 in the one side, make sure to bring blocks for the rear stabilizers as the pad drops off at the back."
Electrical billing practices: For extended stays, understand utility policies. At Shreveport Bossier City KOA, one visitor reports, "On monthly rate they charge for electric which I get but it continued to go up even though outside temps continued to drop so no need for my A/C units."
Cell service considerations: Signal strength varies significantly between locations. One camper at Cypress Black Bayou reports, "Even got enough cell service to power Verizon hub for tv," while others note weaker connectivity at more remote cabin locations.
