Campgrounds near Blanchard, Louisiana offer diverse camping options along the bayous and lakes of northwestern Louisiana. The area sits at low elevations around 200 feet above sea level with hot, humid summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and mild winters. Several pet-friendly camping areas provide water access points for dogs, with specific rules varying by location.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Earl Williamson Park features a free 18-hole disc golf course popular with campers. "We got to play disc golf at their very nice public (free) 18 hole course. I've been carrying around the discs for years and never got to play. Now I'm hooked!" reported one visitor to Earl Williamson Park.
Bayou paddling adventures: Explore the cypress-filled waterways by canoe or kayak. "The park offers canoe rentals or bring your kayak which you can put in the 'pond' and paddle around the amazing cypress trees that are draped in moss," notes a camper at Caddo Lake State Park Campground. The unique ecosystem creates distinctive paddling routes through moss-covered trees.
Wildlife observation: Several parks feature small wildlife areas for animal viewing. Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area includes "a small wildlife sanctuary (zoo but no petting) and free roaming peacocks," according to a camper at Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area.
What campers like
Lakefront sites with sunsets: Waterfront camping spots offer excellent views, especially at sunset. "The waterfront sites have an amazing sun set view of Caddo Lake. Inexpensive camping sites," notes a camper about Earl Williamson Park. Most waterfront sites fill quickly during peak seasons.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness at certain campgrounds. "I loved the spaciousness of each site leaving a lot of room between you and your neighbors," reports a visitor to Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area. This spacing allows for more privacy than typically found at commercial campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathhouse was immaculately clean. I went in expecting a typical park shower room with spiders or bugs. There were NONE. The bathhouse was heated and a welcome chance to shower in something other than a matchbox," notes a reviewer at Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area.
What you should know
Cash-only policies: Some campgrounds require cash payment. "Right on the lake in town Park, cash only and no reservations but can call camp host to see if a spot is open," explains a camper at Earl Williamson Park, noting the $12 nightly fee for full hookups.
Security features: Several campgrounds have increased security measures. "The park is shaded and all sites are either lake side or almost. Security measures are excellent," mentions a visitor to Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area. Some parks have sheriff offices nearby or gated access.
Road noise considerations: Traffic sounds affect some camping areas. "The big turn off for me on this park is that, despite its beauty, there is incessant road noise that you hear from every campsite," warns a camper at Caddo Lake State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Blanchard offer play areas for children. "The park features a playground, disc golf course, fishing piers, and a swimming beach, making it suitable for families," notes a visitor to Earl Williamson Park.
Wildlife viewing with kids: Children often enjoy the small animal exhibits at certain parks. "We loved the cabin, it made winter camping with kids do-able! Loved hiking and exploring! A ton of CCC history and beautiful bald cypress here!" shares a family who stayed at Caddo Lake State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Several parks offer designated swimming areas. "There is much to do at this park. Trails, swimming, boating, fishing, small zoo and museum. Very clean. Newly renovated," reports a camper at Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Extended stay considerations: RVers planning longer stays should research carefully. "Did an extended stay here, 3 months while working in the area. The staff is great and very helpful and friendly. The dog park is nice if you have them. Park is well maintained," reports a camper about Shreveport Bossier City KOA, though they noted concerns about utility costs.
Pull-through accessibility: Some parks offer easy access for larger rigs. "We stayed here for one night on our cross country trip. It was clean, well maintained, nice layout and landscaping, great dog park, and friendly service. We had a level pull through with full service with no need to disconnect," notes an RVer at Shreveport Bossier City KOA.
Site leveling challenges: Not all sites provide perfectly level parking. "Stayed here a couple of nights while visiting family in the area. Easy access from I-10. It's on the south side of the interstate not the north as shown on the map. Mostly filled with long term rentals but keep clean and nice," reports a visitor to Southern Living RV Park, adding that "Pull through slots. It took a little work to get level."
