Glamping close to Boyce, Louisiana offers visitors access to the Kisatchie National Forest, the state's only national forest spanning over 604,000 acres with terrain featuring rare pine hills and sandstone outcrops. The region experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for outdoor recreation. Camping facilities range from primitive sites to full-hookup RV pads across multiple state and federal recreation areas.
What to do
Canoe the waterways: Chicot State Park features a dedicated paddle trail on its lake where visitors can explore by canoe or kayak. "I've been going here all my life and even though I live a couple states away now. It's my go to place to stay when I return," notes a South Campground — Chicot State Park visitor.
Hike the Backbone Trail: This 10-mile trail offers some of the most varied terrain in Louisiana with actual hills, a rarity in the state. A Kisatchie Bayou Complex visitor shared their experience: "Primitive camping along the 10mi Backbone trail. Took out the hammock and camped out around the halfway mark along the trail. You can set up shop around an old fire pit or make one of your own. The backbone trail has to be the prettiest trail in the state of Louisiana."
Fish in local waters: The Red River offers productive fishing opportunities near campgrounds. "The park has a nice free day use boat launch as well as a floating dock with a fish cleaning station. The park is very clean and does not smell fishy," reports a visitor to Colfax RV Park.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the area receive consistent praise for cleanliness. "Very clean and well maintained park. Very friendly park employees," notes a visitor to South Campground — Chicot State Park.
Secluded camping spots: Many campgrounds offer privacy despite being established sites. "Bayou camping provides beautiful/secluded bayou campground. Was very clean, secure and had WiFi. Friendly staff and beautiful sites," according to a North Campground visitor.
Variety of wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse ecosystems with numerous wildlife spotting opportunities. A visitor to North Campground — Chicot State Park reported: "Saw some big gators especially by the boat ramp. Campground is a little rundown but serviceable."
What you should know
Limited water access at some sites: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water or hookups. A visitor to Kisatchie Bayou Complex advises: "Toilets but no running water. Great area to spend the day and swim!"
Seasonal pest considerations: Louisiana's climate supports active insect populations. "The negatives are the wasps, ticks, and chiggers," warns a camper at South Campground.
Raccoon precautions: Wildlife management includes proper food storage. "Like someone said, the raccoons are not your average raccoons," notes a camper sharing their experience at South Campground.
Steep terrain at hillside locations: Some campgrounds feature challenging access roads. A Magnolia Hill RV Park visitor cautions: "Entrance road is gravel and very steep but I was able to drive my 34' motor home up pulling my jeep no problem."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A visitor to Colfax RV Park shares: "There is a nice playground for the kids as well as a nice shower house. The park has lots of picnic areas (34) set up under shade trees."
Water recreation options: Swimming opportunities vary by location. A Kisatchie Bayou visitor notes: "Picnic tables and grills available. Swimming, camping, hiking, and canoeing can all be done here."
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Accessible fishing piers accommodate young anglers. "The fishing pier was amazing and the kids loved how far out it went. Overall a great experience," according to a South Campground visitor.
Splash pad availability: Some parks offer water features specifically for children. A North Campground camper mentions: "Fishing, canoeing and hiking trails are available as well as splash pad for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary in privacy levels across campgrounds. A visitor to South Campground advises: "Camp sites are a little close, especially because we usually go to tent only sections."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete utility connections. A camper at Magnolia Hill RV Park shares: "There is full hookups with a Bathhouse and free WiFi. Not far from Natchitoches, LA."
Dump station access: Some campgrounds provide sanitary disposal facilities. A camper at North Campground notes that the park includes access to a sanitary dump station, which is valuable for longer stays.
Large site dimensions: Many campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "The sites are big with full hookups. They all have picnic tables and fire pits," reports a Colfax RV Park visitor.
