Glamping close to Chatham, Louisiana offers a blend of comfort and outdoor immersion in the north Louisiana landscape. The region features humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers, making year-round camping viable. Typical elevation ranges from 150 to 250 feet above sea level, with the surrounding area characterized by pine forests, cypress-lined lakes, and rolling hills.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Lake Claiborne State Park maintains two well-marked disc golf courses that draw enthusiasts from across the region. "Two Disc Golf Courses and hiking trails. Nice facilities with all lodging options from primitive tent, yurt, RV hookups, and cabins," notes Penny A. about Lake Claiborne State Park.
Fishing: Caney Lake at Jimmie Davis State Park is known for trophy bass fishing. "Good lake for fishing and water sports, many sites you can park your boat very close," reports Adam R. about Jimmie Davis State Park. The park includes boat launches and fish cleaning stations for anglers.
Hiking trails: Explore the marked trails featuring wooden bridges and seasonal waterfalls. "The King of the Mountain Trail is my favorite because of its wooden bridge and tiny waterfall," shares Sarah B. about Lake Claiborne. Trails range from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging hilly terrain.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The parks offer excellent opportunities to observe native species in their natural habitat. "Whitetail deer, owls, fish/gar, butterflies, dragonflies, fireflies, and much more!" explains Penny A. about her experience at Lake Claiborne State Park.
Variety of accommodations: Beyond traditional camping, visitors appreciate the range of lodging options. "Beautiful cabins. Great piers on a very nice lake with big, beautiful cypress trees," notes Steve S. about Lake D'Arbonne State Park. This flexibility allows visitors to choose experiences that match their comfort needs.
Water recreation: Lakes provide natural focal points for activities. "Lake Claiborne was a gorgeous lake to kayak on," shares Cat R. The clear waters and protected coves create ideal conditions for paddling, swimming, and fishing throughout much of the year.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Communication can be unreliable in these natural settings. "Absolutely no cell service," warns Cat R. about Lake Claiborne. Similarly, Brent C. notes, "Wi-Fi did not work anywhere in park (signal broadcasted fine just no connection to internet) AT&T is non-existent."
Terrain considerations: Be prepared for uneven ground at some campsites. "Not level ground, but we managed with enough blocks to get it level," advises Cat R. Bringing leveling blocks for RVs and carefully selecting tent sites can make your stay more comfortable.
Seasonal crowds: Weekdays offer a quieter experience compared to busier weekends. "The campsite is really cozy (and not crowded during week days)," mentions Gil C. about Jimmie Davis State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and splash areas: Several parks offer designated swimming areas perfect for children. "This was a back in site. Water and electric, no sewer, but had a dump station. Absolutely no cell service. Lake Claiborne was a gorgeous lake to kayak on," reports Cat R.
Playground access: Multiple play areas provide entertainment options for younger campers. "Nice little beach where the kids can play and a playground area as well," notes Sarah B. These facilities are typically located near bathhouses for convenience.
Educational opportunities: The parks offer natural classrooms for kids to learn about local ecosystems. "We love coming here with the kids just for a weekend get away," shares Rachael M. about her family's experiences at Jimmie Davis State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Not all sites offer full hookups, so check specifications when booking. "Great Lake spots no sewer on lake spots," mentions Aleia B. about Lake Claiborne. The most scenic waterfront sites often have limited hookups compared to interior locations.
Laundry facilities: Some parks provide on-site laundry services for extended stays. "Laundry room next to the bath house and playground. I will definitely be back," shares Cheri H. about her experience at Lake D'Arbonne State Park.
