Best Dispersed Camping near Chatham, LA
The Kisatchie National Forest near Chatham offers several free dispersed camping options. Highway 472 Camp provides primitive sites split on both sides of the highway with vault toilets available. The campground features several cleared areas with established fire rings, and some spots can accommodate larger vehicles including RVs. According to a visitor, "This is nice for a quick sleep" though the bathrooms are minimally maintained.
Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area provides another dispersed option about 5 miles from I-20, though reviews indicate varying conditions. While one camper noted it as "nice and secluded" with a site "at end of turn around next to a nice pond," others have reported trash issues. A $5 permit is now required despite being previously listed as free. Sugar Creek Hunt Camp offers a more remote experience at the end of a two-mile gravel road with vault toilets and trash receptacles. A recent review cautions, "The road down there is full of huge potholes, be aware!" All these areas are primarily designed for hunters, so campers should be mindful of hunting seasons.
