Primitive camping options surround Fort Polk in Kisatchie National Forest's five ranger districts. The forest spans over 604,000 acres of central and north Louisiana with mixed pine-hardwood ecosystems at elevations ranging from 80 to 410 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing, particularly in the northern districts.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Enduro Complex offers access to miles of multi-use trails. "There are miles and miles of trails attached to this campground. OHV, horse or hiking. Beautiful area, just don't forget sunscreen, water, bug and tick repellant. The trails are very well marked," notes Paula W.
Swimming spots: During warmer months, Kisatchie Bayou Campground provides natural swimming opportunities. According to Alex F., "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."
Nature observation: Wildlife watching opportunities abound throughout the forest. At Red Bluff Camp, one camper mentioned, "The piece and quiet and views were great. Lots of wildlife in these trees." Primitive sites often provide the best wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk.
Mountain biking: Several forest trails permit mountain biking, with designated routes marked for cyclists. The Sandstone Trail system near Coyote Camp is particularly popular for technical riding across varied terrain with elevation changes uncommon in Louisiana.
What campers like
Seclusion: Many campers appreciate the remote locations. At Red Bluff Camp, Christy P. shares, "It is very remote and secluded, which we loved."
Natural water features: The clear water streams are unexpected highlights. One camper at Kisatchie Bayou noted, "You almost feel as if you're in Arkansas with the clear water bayou running over sandstone creating a relaxing waterfall sound."
Affordability: Most primitive sites in Kisatchie are free. At Hunters Camp, Conrad V. states, "The Hunter Camp is situated just off range road. You're surrounded by wilderness. The only amenities are a vault toilet. Fort Polk is close enough for supplies, check your gate schedules."
Dark skies: The remote locations offer excellent stargazing. Rod F. at Coyote Camp mentions, "Quiet, isolated but yet easily accessible. We found at least three sites that could accommodate our 26' class C. Two to three bars of Verizon 4g, fast service."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites have minimal amenities. Danny H. notes about Hunters Camp: "My wife and I camped here just before memorial day and had the entire campsite to ourselves. I imagine during hunting season this camp is quite busy, however we found it very peaceful in the off months. But hey, it's free camping."
Wildlife concerns: Encounters with wildlife are common. At Coyote Camp, one camper warns, "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."
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires traveling rough roads. Melissa S. says about Coyote Camp: "Our GPS put us on a dirt road for a few miles - however it was well maintained and not too rutted."
Insects: The forest's humidity creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes and other insects. Danny H. observed at Hunters Camp: "Because of its location so deep in the woods mosquitoes, horseflies, and yellow flies were in abundance. Using a therma cell was perfect at keeping them at bay."
Tips for camping with families
Sandy beaches: Valentine Lake South Shore offers waterfront sites ideal for families. Keith R. recommends, "Great water front sites at $10 a night is not bad!!! There is no power or water a sites but has community water faucets in a few areas... The bathouse is real nice... But the canoeing is wonderful there."
Playgrounds: Some recreation areas include play equipment. Sarah L. notes about Indian Creek Recreation Area: "This is a campground that is designed for young families, from the multiple sandy beach areas to the playgrounds, there was lot for my elementary age children to do."
Weekday visits: For the best tent camping near Fort Polk, Louisiana with children, consider non-weekend trips. Keith R. says Valentine Lake South Shore is "Very peaceful & quiet during the week but gets a little noisy on the weekends & holidays."
Swimming areas: Several sites feature natural swimming spots. At Stuart Lake Recreation Complex, Paula W. notes, "This little campground has 8 spacious sites with picnic table, tent pad, fire ring, and lantern pole. Beautiful pine trees provide shade and a beauty like none other."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully when bringing larger vehicles. At Indian Creek Recreation Area, Layla D. advises, "We have a 21' travel trailer and barely fit it and our Toyota Tundra in site 52. The lake was visible when standing inside the camper (driver side) but not from our chairs by the fire."
Water access: Many primitive sites lack water hookups. Jeff S. notes about Indian Creek's primitive section: "There are a few pit toilets that are clean and there is a potable water spigot at each of the pit toilet locations. The campsites are basic tenting areas with no improvements."
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies throughout the forest. Rod F. reports from Coyote Camp: "Two to three bars of Verizon 4g, fast service. 14day stay limit and FREE!"
Leveling challenges: Some sites have uneven terrain. Layla D. shares about Indian Creek: "Site 52 was also a little low, so it was a bit soggy from rains that fell the week before we had arrived."
