RV camping near Bentley, Louisiana offers varied outdoor experiences with most sites available year-round. The area sits along the Red River system with elevations averaging 115 feet above sea level, creating opportunities for both waterfront and inland camping. Seasonal water levels fluctuate between October and March, particularly affecting boat access points and waterfront campsites.
What to do
Fishing in the Red River: Colfax Recreation Area RV Park provides excellent fishing access with a boat launch and floating dock with fish cleaning stations. A visitor noted, "This is a quiet park right on the Red River. Sunsets are amazing over the river."
Kayaking in nearby oxbows: Shallow water paddling options exist for families with smaller craft. According to one camper at Colfax Recreation Area RV Park & Campground, "We like to let the kids kayak in the oxbow at the landing. Nice place to go for a short weekend trip to get out the house and on the water!"
Swimming at water parks: Located within 45 minutes of Bentley, Gator Grounds RV Resort offers both indoor and outdoor water features. A camper shared, "Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park. Fall has been great because of the nice fire pits."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and common areas receive regular maintenance at many parks. One visitor to Colfax mentioned, "The facilities are well maintained and clean. The sites are spaced nicely and tucked into the trees."
Level concrete pads: Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park offers stable parking surfaces. A reviewer noted, "We stayed 3 nights and it was a peaceful visit. There were plenty of sites to choose from, all on clean concrete pads."
Waterfront views: Riverside camping provides scenic settings. At Hidden Treasure RV Resort, a camper shared, "We are in site #17 and it overlooks the lake. Owners are fantastic."
Fall and winter seasonal activities: Gator Grounds RV Resort organizes special events during cooler months. One review stated, "We are now a huge fan of their Halloween celebration. The camping spots really go all out in decorating for the kids."
What you should know
Water pressure variations: Some parks have inconsistent pressure that may require adjustments. A camper at Colfax Recreation Area noted, "The water pressure is a little low, but sufficient."
Site leveling requirements: Many parks in the region have uneven terrain. According to a review of Hidden Treasure, "Not all sites are level, but that may change with their improvements."
Limited shade at newer facilities: Recent developments may lack mature trees. At Paragon Casino Resort, a camper mentioned their site had "very little shade" and required setting up canopies for comfort.
Early pool closures: Even during peak seasons, water amenities may close early. A visitor to Gator Grounds noted, "Unfortunately we didn't have much time because we didn't realize the outside pool area closes at 7pm."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some parks offer dedicated play areas for children. A Colfax visitor stated, "There is a nice playground for the kids as well as a nice shower house."
Consider cabin options: For those without RVs, alternatives exist. A camper at Paragon Casino Resort shared, "This campground has large paved pull through sites with full hookups... They also have little cabins and chalets for rent at the back of the campground."
Check for special events: Holiday weekends often include family activities. According to a Pontchartrain Landing RV Resort camper, "We enjoyed walking along the marina in the resort with the cute cabins and large boats docked. One sells fresh shrimp each morning we learned."
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Connection locations can affect parking and setup. A visitor to Colfax commented on the "All spots are full hookup and 50 amp service" with utilities placed mid-site.
Site width considerations: Space between rigs varies by park. At Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park, a camper noted, "Nice large pull through sites with easy hook ups."
Bathroom availability: Not all parks have sufficient facilities throughout the grounds. A reviewer at Pontchartrain Landing observed, "There is no shuttle to downtown anymore... Bathrooms not the greatest, restaurants are good."
