Tent camping near Chatham, Louisiana centers around the Kisatchie National Forest, where primitive sites predominate on the forest's 604,000 acres. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F, while summer months regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. The forest terrain varies from sandy loam soil to dense pine stands, requiring campers to select tent sites carefully for drainage during frequent precipitation.
What to do
Explore hunter's trails: Pearson Camp offers access to extensive hiking trails within Kisatchie National Forest. "It is designated for hunters during hunting season and great for young explorers the rest of the time," notes reviewer Paula W. The camp provides basic vault toilets and forest surroundings.
Practice plant identification: Louisiana Herbs on Breston Plantation combines camping with botanical education opportunities. "We got the grand tour of the land, and Breston's impressive herb farm. The love and passion Breston has for horticulture really shines through his work here," writes LaRee S. Visitors can learn scientific plant names and even purchase specimens.
Wildlife observation: Turkey Trot Complex provides tent camping in a remote section of forest known for diverse wildlife. The area supports typical Louisiana woodland species including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, raccoons, opossums, and numerous bird species. Campers should maintain appropriate food storage practices.
What campers like
Historical property setting: At Louisiana Herbs on Breston Plantation, the surrounding landscape offers cultural interest. "The historic plantation is absolutely gorgeous," according to LaRee S., who appreciated learning about the property while camping. The location provides a combination of natural surroundings and historical context.
Secluded atmosphere: Saddle Bayou Camp Complex draws campers seeking quiet forest settings. Steve L. describes it as a "Nice little place" with basic toilet facilities. The camp layout accommodates various camping styles including small travel trailers up to 20 feet.
Abundant natural materials: The forest setting at Saddle Bayou Camp Complex provides practical resources. Paula W. noted the area has "obvious spots where others have camped" and "lots of firewood to burn and woods to explore." This dispersed camping environment allows visitors flexibility in site selection.
What you should know
Sign visibility issues: When locating Saddle Bayou Camp Complex, be aware of potential navigation challenges. Thomas M. reports, "The sign designating Saddle Bayou Campground fell into the ditch in early 2019. As of August 2019 it is still down, so if you are trying to find this campground for the first time, please note that there is no sign visible."
Seasonal campground conditions: During non-hunting seasons, maintenance may be minimal at hunting-focused campgrounds. Paula W. observed that "The grounds are over grown bc it's not hunting season" at Saddle Bayou, though she still found it "peaceful and quiet."
Water access limitations: Most primitive campgrounds near Chatham lack running water. Corney Lake North Shore Primitive Campground provides tent sites with water access for fishing or paddling, but campers must bring drinking water. Sites typically offer picnic tables but minimal other amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Soft ground benefits: Family tent campers appreciate the natural ground conditions at Louisiana Herbs on Breston Plantation. LaRee S. reports that "The ground was soft and cushy, perfect if you're light car-campers like we are," making it comfortable even with minimal padding.
Wildlife education opportunities: Sugar Creek Hunt Camp provides tent camping in an area with educational wildlife viewing potential. The surrounding forest hosts typical Louisiana woodland species, creating natural learning environments for children interested in animal tracks, bird calls, or forest ecology.
Activity planning: During non-hunting seasons, prepare alternative activities for children at hunt camps. Bring field guides, binoculars, compass or GPS units, and trail maps to engage young visitors in exploration and navigation practice within established boundaries.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer accessibility: Saddle Bayou Camp Complex accommodates compact RVs with basic setup. According to Steve L., the area works for "20ft rv travel trailer" camping with separate toilet facilities for men and women, though he notes "Only one spot for that."
Leveling preparations: Tent campers and small RV users should bring leveling blocks at most primitive sites near Chatham. Forest camping areas often feature uneven terrain with natural slopes for drainage. Wooden blocks or commercial levelers help establish stable sleeping platforms.
