Tent camping near Cullen, Louisiana provides access to several established campgrounds scattered throughout the piney woods of northern Louisiana. The region has an average elevation of 220-280 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate where summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity. Seasonal hunters frequently use primitive sites during fall and winter months when temperatures moderate to 45-65°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ivan Lake attracts anglers with bank fishing access and boat launch facilities. A local camper noted, "We camp here while hunting..love this camp site no worries or problems, all nice red blooded Americans loving Gods outdoor country."
Disc golf course: Campers at Earl Williamson Park can access an 18-hole disc golf course on-site. One visitor shared, "We got to play disc golf at their very nice public (free) 18 hole course. I've been carrying around the discs for years and never got to play. Now I'm hooked!"
Wildlife observation: The Bodcau Wildlife Management Area contains multiple camping areas and extensive hiking opportunities. A camper at Wenks Landing described the experience as, "Great campsite..kinda primitive but good for those that like the outdoor experience."
What campers like
Affordable rates: Many sites charge minimal fees for basic tent camping. A visitor to Earl Williamson Park mentioned, "Only $12 a night cash only, 2 week max" while another noted primitive camping was even cheaper: "$6 for primitive."
Lake access: Turtle Slide Campground once offered waterfront sites, though a camper reported, "It's in a really pretty location but it's overgrown and has obviously been closed for a while. I bet it was nice when it was open."
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds provide secluded experiences away from crowds. A camper at Wenks Landing Recreation Area appreciated that, "If you want to tent camp or sleep in your car, only book sites 1-5. The others don't seem to have flat spots for much of anything."
What you should know
Cash only policies: Many parks operate on cash-only payment systems. One camper at Earl Williamson Park confirmed, "Park has swimming, boat launch, disc golf, corn hole and much more highly recommend. Only $12 a night cash only, 2 week max."
Limited site preparation: Most tent sites feature natural, level ground with minimal improvements. A visitor to Wenks Landing advised, "If you want to tent camp or sleep in your car, only book sites 1-5. The others don't seem to have flat spots for much of anything. Perhaps hammocking would work!"
Insect activity: The humid climate supports active insect populations. A camper at Wenks Landing noted, "It was quite buggy even in early April, but I managed to keep moving and make a fire so the smoke would help the bugs stay away."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Logoly State Park Campground offers educational opportunities for young campers. A visitor shared, "Logoly is good for kids who need a tame introduction to nature. With trails, its a good place to take a day trip."
Swimming options: Some parks provide designated swimming areas during warmer months. A camper at Earl Williamson Park mentioned, "This park has a day use area that includes playgrounds, disc golf, fishing piers, and a swim beach (that we made good use of)."
Safety considerations: Some parks have security presence. One camper noted, "The local sheriff's office sits at the entrance so we felt very safe there too."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups only. A visitor to Earl Williamson Park reported, "We paid for full hookups since the primitive area was overgrown and VERY primitive. We had electricity and a covered pavilion, but no water spigot at our site."
Dump station access: Limited facilities are available for waste disposal. An RVer at Earl Williamson Park noted, "There was a dump station that was easy to get to and maintained."
Water access challenges: Even with hookups, water connections can be problematic. A camper explained, "Other sites had water but some were set up for RV connections not for filling up jugs. We simply used a spigot that happened to be at an empty site nearby."
