Columbia, Louisiana offers several pet-friendly camping options in northeastern Louisiana where the Ouachita River provides natural boundaries. The region sits at approximately 70 feet above sea level with mild winters and hot, humid summers that typically range from 34°F in January to 92°F in July. Camping in this area provides access to both riverfront settings and lake views with sites that can accommodate various camping styles.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Lincoln Parish Park offers nationally recognized mountain biking courses with varying difficulty levels. "This park, known more for their mountain biking courses than camping, is literally hidden in a neighborhood. Nice park with some primitive camping feel," notes reviewer Nicki M. at Lincoln Parish Park.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the area provide lake and river access for fishing enthusiasts. "The lake is beautiful with trophy bass," says one camper about Jimmie Davis State Park. "Caney Lake is fantastic," adds Bob M., mentioning the park has "tall pines and Caney Lake is fantastic."
Wine tasting: For a unique camping experience, Landry Vineyards combines outdoor stays with wine sampling. "Am amazing area for an overnight stop. The vinyard is clean and the space for parking was a great spot. Don't miss this one. Have a flight of wine and cheese sit back and enjoy," recommends Craig I.
Historical exploration: The region offers historical sites worth exploring, including nearby plantations. One camper at Louisiana Herbs on Breston Plantation shares, "The historic plantation is absolutely gorgeous. We got the grand tour of the land, and Breston's impressive herb farm."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront spots: Many campers appreciate the quiet riverside locations. "We stayed at Landry Vineyards on a Saturday and they were quite busy... The site(#3) was on the upper level and was quite scenic...a nice spot," writes Steven V.
Clean facilities: Poverty Point Reservoir State Park Campground receives praise for its maintenance. "Bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen in a public park," writes Peter R. Another camper adds, "Very nice campsites, lake is beautiful. Restroom and bathhouse was super clean."
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. At Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area, campers mention hearing "local cows and dogs" and some even "put my ring doorbell out in hopes of a glimpse" of bears and other wildlife.
Level sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature well-designed parking spots. "The layout is a bit tricky to navigate with a trailer, spots are close and the turns are sharp with bad angles. There's a cute pond with a bridge and bench," mentions Allison N. about Pavilion RV Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. "We did stay in winter season with rain and cold... I would love to come back when weather is better," writes KJ G. about winter camping at Lincoln Parish Park.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more basic experience, Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area provides free dispersed camping. "This is a nice site at end of turn around. Next to a nice pond. About 5 miles from I20. No amenities. Beware only one camp site," cautions Eric G.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance bookings. "Clean restrooms, nice sites, WiFi. Only downside is I had to call for same day reservations," notes Jennifer M. about Poverty Point Reservoir.
Insect activity: The region's proximity to water means abundant insects, particularly during warmer months. "At dusk, the harvestmen 'spiders' were plenteous, even around my fire. I had to put bright lights out to somewhat ward them off," reports Hope H.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jimmie Davis State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Beautiful secluded clean... nice splash pad and park for the kids to play nice beach area," shares Sherrie N. Another camper adds, "We love coming here with the kids just for a weekend get away."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds provide learning experiences. At Louisiana Herbs on Breston Plantation, one camper enjoyed "learning about the ins and outs (and scientific names!) of outdoor plants!"
Water activities: During hot summer months, seek campgrounds with water access. "Lincoln Parish Park has some pull through sites which are very convenient. Nice lake with a walking path," mentions Becky E., while another reviewer notes it has a "Big lake with beach(seasonal)."
Safety considerations: Be aware of potential wildlife encounters, especially with pets. When walking dogs near water, keep them leashed and watch for snakes and other wildlife. "Wildlife considerations include being alert for snakes and alligators in wetland areas," note several campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Ouachita RV Park provides full hookup options. "We just did an overnight pitstop. nice little campground, our site was LEVEL!!! gravel site, pulled in, put the truck in park and we were almost perfectly level," shares Roscoe's R.
Access considerations: Pay attention to site dimensions and accessibility. "It was very easy to get in and out of with our 45' 5th wheel," notes Jamie R. about Landry Vineyards, while another mentions, "The sites are anywhere between $34 and $30 depending on your discount of AAA, Military, etc."
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds offer convenient interstate access. "Right off I-20, near a Pilot travel center. Also convenient location to the Ike Hamilton Expo Pavilion. Full hookups," writes Cheri H. about Pavilion RV Park.
Extended stay options: Several parks accommodate longer visits. "New owner was especially nice as well as office staff. We were delayed in arriving due to trailer repairs needed. They held our spot and we arrived at sunset," shares Marie M.
