Best Campgrounds near Columbia, LA
The Ouachita River corridor provides multiple camping options in the vicinity of Columbia, Louisiana, with Riverton Lake Campground serving as a centralized location directly in town. The broader area includes established sites like Brad's Old Ferry Landing Campground & RV Park (approximately 28 miles south in Enterprise) and Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area (about 36 miles northwest). Camping opportunities range from primitive dispersed sites to fully developed campgrounds with hookups, accommodating both tent and RV campers. Several locations offer cabin accommodations, particularly at Jimmie Davis State Park about 30 miles west of Columbia, which also features glamping options.
Access to mixed-use campgrounds varies with weather conditions, particularly along the Ouachita River where seasonal flooding can affect site availability. Many campgrounds operate year-round, though humidity and insects peak during summer months. "This is a cute stop. Nice long pull through site and pretty level. Prices are very reasonable for full hookups," notes one camper about Ouachita RV Park, which provides convenient interstate access for travelers. Cell service is generally reliable near developed campgrounds, though coverage may become spotty in more remote areas of the Wildlife Management Area. Most established campgrounds require reservations, while dispersed camping in public lands follows different regulations and often lacks amenities.
The region's camping experiences largely center around water activities and southern hospitality. Lakefront sites at Poverty Point Reservoir State Park (approximately 27 miles northeast) receive strong ratings for their proximity to water recreation. A visitor to Louisiana Herbs on Breston Plantation remarked, "We chose the clearing in the back, surrounded by towering trees, next to the levee. The ground was soft and cushy, perfect if you're light car-campers like we are." Several campgrounds feature fishing access, with both riverside and lake options available. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere, particularly at privately-owned sites like Landry Vineyards, where visitors can enjoy views overlooking grape fields. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area, especially in the more natural settings of the Wildlife Management Area where camping remains more primitive.
