Camping options near Boyce, Louisiana offer RVers direct access to Cotile Lake and the Red River. The region features primarily full-hookup RV parks rather than primitive camping, with sites starting at $32 per night. Winter temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing, though most campgrounds maintain year-round availability with heated facilities during the brief cold spells.
What to do
Fishing access: Colfax Recreation Area provides excellent Red River fishing opportunities with a free day-use boat launch, floating dock, and fish cleaning station. According to Paula W., "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."
Water recreation: For families seeking water activities, Gator Grounds RV Resort offers indoor and outdoor water parks. Josh B. notes, "Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park. Fall has been great because of the nice fire pits and we are now a huge fan of their Halloween celebration."
Boat exploration: River Island RV Park provides direct Red River access for boaters. "They have an amazing place out there! Something for everyone, mud riding, fishing, trail rides, and sits right on the gorgeous Red River!" says Ty J.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of RV campgrounds in Boyce and surrounding areas. At Colfax RV Park, Linda S. reports, "Large sites, few trees, manicured landscaping and clean bathhouses. Really quite with friendly park rangers."
Seasonal activities: Halloween celebrations are popular at several area campgrounds. Josh B. shares about Gator Grounds, "The camping spots really go all out in decorating for the kids. There was a costume contest and then a time for kids to visit all spots for candy."
Lake views: Hidden Treasure RV Resort offers sites overlooking Cotile Lake. Cat R. notes, "Slightly hilly with beautiful mature trees, some which have several bird feeders attached! Wildlife galore. Site 19 was quite unlevel, but nothing a few leveling blocks couldn't handle. Picnic table and fire pit, along with a gorgeous view of Cotile Lake."
What you should know
Site leveling: Many RV sites in the area require leveling blocks. Cat R. mentions about Hidden Treasure RV Resort: "Site 19 was quite unlevel, but nothing a few leveling blocks couldn't handle."
Long-term residents: Some campgrounds host long-term residents, particularly near military installations. At Shady Lake RV Park, Granny C. observed, "Some RV's had dug in their sewer hoses for a more permanent living arrangement. I have since found out that this happens around Military Bases frequently."
Off-season advantages: Winter camping offers quieter experiences. Cat R. shares about Gator Grounds, "Although it's not our first visit here, it is our first during off season. It was quiet, roomy, and spotlessly clean! Park attendant even came by and checked on us."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor alternatives: Look for campgrounds with indoor activities for weather backup. Trent A. says about Gator Grounds: "Great campground! It was a very cold weekend but indoor water fun was awesome, kept the kids occupied."
Kid-friendly amenities: Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park offers a pool and spacious sites. Caroline D. shares, "This RV Park is neat and clean. Each row of sites is named after a variety of Pecans. There is a pool and a pond."
Local wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds feature wildlife viewing opportunities. At Hidden Treasure RV Resort, Cat R. notes the "beautiful mature trees, some which have several bird feeders attached! Wildlife galore."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Gator Grounds RV Resort, Cat R. recommends specific site numbers: "We stayed in site 76. I highly recommend staying in the 70's spots. Shade, flat level areas, with fire rings and tables."
Water pressure considerations: Some RV campgrounds in the Boyce area have variable water pressure. Gary G. notes at Colfax Recreation Area: "The water pressure is a little low, but sufficient."
Weather preparations: Winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezes. David B. mentions at Gator Grounds: "It was a very cold weekend but indoor water fun was awesome, kept the kids occupied."