Kisatchie National Forest offers accessible primitive camping within minutes of Cloutierville, Louisiana. The region contains sandy soil and rolling hills unlike typical Louisiana terrain, with elevations ranging from 80-300 feet. Camping areas connect through multi-use trail systems with forest roads that become challenging after rainfall, though most campsites remain accessible to standard vehicles.
What to do
Hiking trails: Kisatchie Bayou Complex provides access to multiple trail systems. "This section of National Forest is home to over 30 miles of nature trails. The trails are for hiking, biking, horseback riding and off road vehicle riding," notes a camper. The Backbone Trail offers unique terrain features not typically found in Louisiana.
Water recreation: Kisatchie Bayou offers opportunities for paddling and swimming in clear water that's unusual for the region. "The Bayou Campground has a stream with a beach. Toilets are available by the parking lot, but no sinks. Bring extra toilet paper just in case they run out," advises one visitor.
Dark sky viewing: Coyote Camp provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "Clean pit toilets. Extremely quiet, great dark sky opportunities. Mostly used as a hunter's camp," reports a camper. Clear nights offer exceptional star visibility due to minimal light pollution.
What campers like
Solitude: Primitive campsites throughout Kisatchie National Forest offer private camping experiences. At Custis Camp, "This campground does not permit OHV's, so it's a little more on the quiet side." The restriction on off-highway vehicles creates a quieter atmosphere than other nearby camping areas.
Waterfront access: The unusual clear-water streams create swimming opportunities. At Kisatchie Bayou NF Campground, "You almost feel as if you're in Arkansas with the clear water bayou running over sandstone creating a relaxing waterfall sound." These small rapids provide both visual and auditory elements that enhance the camping experience.
Wildlife viewing: The forest hosts diverse wildlife. At Coyote Camp, one visitor reported, "We have seen a lot of snakes and it rains a lot. Some bees but not a serious nuisance. So just be aware when walking on the trails. Lots of deer and bobcats."
What you should know
Seasonal hunting impacts: Hunting seasons significantly affect campground availability and atmosphere. At Oak Camp Complex, "We arrived during hunting season and it was a little busy but the hunters were very friendly if you don't mind a lot of people running around with rifles, etc."
Fee structures: Most primitive campgrounds charge minimal fees. A visitor to Lotus Camp noted, "Fee: $10.00 per night $5.00 Sandstone Trail Day Use." Exact fee information should be verified before arrival as rates may change.
Animal activity: Evidence of wildlife may be present at campsites. At Kisatchie Bayou Campground, a camper observed, "As we walked into our campsite almost every bit of ground that wasn't packed had been torn up by hogs, like a lot of hogs."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Creekside campsites provide natural play areas. At Kisatchie Bayou, a visitor noted, "Camp next to this beautiful sounding creek, there is a beach to lay out on while the kids play in the water or you can hit the Caroline dorman trail on foot or horseback."
Full-service alternatives: Colfax RV Park offers more amenities for families wanting comfort. "The park has 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."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly across the forest. At Lotus Camp, campers reported moderate cell reception, while a visitor to Coyote Camp noted, "As for cell service I got between 2 and 3 bars I have cricket service. My Starlink wouldn't connect due to no clear view to many trees."
Tips from RVers
Big rig accessibility: Several forest campgrounds can accommodate larger vehicles despite their primitive nature. At Lotus Camp, "There are some nice flat new sites that have been installed and it looks like more new ones are coming."
Hook-up options: For RVers requiring full facilities, developed campgrounds offer complete services. At Colfax Recreation Area, "Large sites with full hookups. There is a nice playground for the kids as well as a nice shower house."
Parking considerations: Even at primitive sites, careful parking allows for larger rigs. At Corral Camp, a visitor commented, "There were several fair sized trailers and RV. I admire their parking skills."
