Camping sites near Cullen, Louisiana provide access to northern Louisiana's network of lakes, bayous and forest recreation areas. The region sits at relatively low elevations between 200-300 feet above sea level, creating flat terrain punctuated by waterways. Summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s with high humidity levels, while winter nights can drop into the 30s, making spring and fall popular for tent campers seeking moderate conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Tom Merrill Recreation Area offers bank fishing options with a dedicated fish cleaning station on site. "Bank fishing is good. Trails, a few exercise equipment, playground, and friendly hosts makes for a wonderful experience," notes a visitor who found the concrete pads and amenities well-maintained.
Disc golf course: Tom Merrill Recreation Area features a newer disc golf course among its recreational amenities. "Bodcau has a wonderful new disc golf course! Among tons of land to explore," writes one camper who enjoyed the variety of outdoor activities available.
Kayaking on smaller lakes: The quieter waters at Ivan Lake provide good paddling opportunities in a more secluded setting. A visitor noted they "camp here while hunting..love this camp site no worries or problems, all nice red blooded Americans loving Gods outdoor country," highlighting the peaceful atmosphere.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area maintains a small wildlife sanctuary with native species. One camper mentioned "They have a fun little zoo on site" while another noted the "free roaming peacocks" that add to the park's natural charm.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Beaver Dam Campground receives consistent praise for its site layout. One camper explained, "Spaces are large and well spaced for privacy. Beautiful lake views," while another mentioned "We stayed in #6 with great view of lake. Flat site and plenty of distance between sites."
Clean facilities: Beaver Dam Campground maintains well-kept shower and restroom facilities. "Very clean. Staff above and beyond helpful and friendly. Showers hot and cleaned daily. Trash removed every morning from receptacles," shared one satisfied visitor.
Lakeside camping views: Campers frequently mention the water views as a highlight. "Most campsites overlook the lake. The sites are separated for privacy and well maintained," noted one camper at Beaver Dam Campground, while another mentioned enjoying "fantastic lakeside views."
Security features: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area implements good security measures. A camper noted, "Security measures are excellent. The park is shaded and all sites are either lake side or almost," adding that "There is a new bathhouse that is very clean and requires a code to be entered on a keypad for entry."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Signal strength varies significantly between campgrounds. At Beaver Dam Campground, one visitor reported "I had 1-2 bars from AT&T," while at Wenks Landing Recreation Area, a camper found "ATT cell service, 1-2 bars."
Wildlife precautions: Alligators inhabit the lakes and waterways. One Beaver Dam visitor reported, "They pulled a ten foot alligator out of there so my morning swim was a little faster than usual," indicating the need for caution around water.
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds use recreation.gov for bookings. At Wenks Landing, a camper clarified, "I thought I'd stay here because it said it was free on the app: IT IS NOT FREE. It's cheap though! $12/night and you can book on the recreation.gov app."
Fire pit variations: Some campgrounds have unusual fire pit designs. At Beaver Dam Campground, a camper warned about "ridiculous fire pits. Obviously designed by someone who never experienced camping or a campfire. The pits are 2 feet tall, solid steel with NO air holes. Fires never burn and even if they did you wouldn't see the fire anyway."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Frank Anthony RV Park offers easy access to facilities but security concerns have been reported. One camper had a negative experience noting they "woke to the sound of gun fire 100 feet from my tent," suggesting families verify current security conditions before booking.
Swimming options: Several lakes have designated swimming areas, though seasonal closures occur. At Beaver Dam Campground, one visitor mentioned "Kayaking, swimming, boating and fishing" among available activities, while another noted that "they have a lakefront beach but it was closed due to COVID 19 concerns."
Multi-activity destinations: Tom Merrill Recreation Area offers diverse recreation within walking distance of campsites. "Park of kiddos, fish cleaning station, gun range, and much more!" noted one visitor about the family-friendly amenities.
Bathroom accessibility: Campgrounds vary in restroom facilities. At Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area, a visitor praised "a new bathhouse that is very clean and requires a code to be entered on a keypad for entry," providing security for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area has some site design peculiarities. One RVer mentioned, "Hookups are a little backwards," suggesting new arrivals should inspect connections carefully before setting up.
Leveling requirements: Concrete pads at Tom Merrill Recreation Area provide stable foundations. A camper noted the campground has "concrete pads, electric, water, grills, and fire pits all well maintained," making RV setup straightforward.
Supply access: Convenience stores with extended hours operate near some campgrounds. Near Tom Merrill Recreation Area, an RVer mentioned there's a "convenience store three miles away with 7 days a week beer sales," useful for restocking supplies.
Site selection for size limitations: Teague Lake Primitive offers more rustic options with limited facilities. Though amenities are basic, one visitor found the area "Most excellent for the day," making it suitable for smaller rigs seeking solitude.
