Yurt camping near Fairbanks, Louisiana provides access to northern Louisiana's mixed pine-hardwood forests and waterways. State parks in this region sit at elevations between 100-300 feet above sea level, creating terrain with rolling hills unusual for Louisiana. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F, while summer months regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: Chemin-A-Haut State Park features several trails through pine forests. "We went trail hiking but this was a little difficult as the walking trails aren't really maintained (the horse trails are maintained and clearly marked)," notes Zack M., highlighting the importance of checking trail conditions before setting out.
Paddle to ancient trees: Chemin-A-Haut State Park offers unique kayaking opportunities. "Went to go to kayak out to Castle Tree and found out the water was too high to really see the base of it and it's a two hr paddle upstream on the way there. So plan on calling ahead if you're going to do that since the water can also be too low," advises Taylor C.
Disc golf courses: Northern Louisiana state parks offer disc golf facilities for visitors seeking recreational activities beyond water sports. "Disc golf course, hiking/biking trails, swimming pool, cabins, lodges, several playgrounds, picnic areas, pavilions & WiFi," explains Cheri H. about the amenities at Lake D'Arbonne.
What campers like
Spacious, well-designed yurt sites: Lake D'Arbonne State Park offers premium lakefront camping. "4 lake front premium spots. We were lucky enough to have one. Piers are super nice," reports Bruce F., describing the sought-after waterfront locations.
Privacy despite proximity: Campers appreciate the balance of community and seclusion. "Campground is nice, nice & clean bathhouses, nice pool[closed due to pandemic]. Cabins looked nice, too. Just have to be careful what sight you book, because I almost never got my camper level in sight #21," shares Gary G. about his experience at Chemin-A-Haut.
Clean facilities: Jimmie Davis State Park Campground maintains high cleanliness standards. "Clean, well kept park. Has a nice splash pad and beach for kids. Also a couple parks and many hammocks. Has wifi, just not a good signal," reports Katina T., noting the family-friendly amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal water level changes: Water levels in creeks and lakes fluctuate significantly throughout the year. "Water has been high for a few months so its ugly and not so useable. There's supposed to be a route by canoe to old growth trees but water is too high," explains Pam G. about conditions at Chemin-A-Haut.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the region. "Cellular service isn't great but they do have Wi-Fi. The RV camping area has a nice, new, and clean restroom and shower facility with coin-operated laundry," notes Heath H.
Budget impacts: State funding affects maintenance schedules. "Amazing state park, sadly underfunded. Still worth a trip. No sewage but there is a dump station. There is also tent camping, cabins, and equestrian camping and trails but there have been budget cuts that prevent horse trail maintenance and road repairs," reports Allison N.
Tips for camping with families
Bring water toys: Caney Lake at Jimmie Davis State Park offers water-based recreation for children. "This campground is wonderful clean grounds nice shower facility well lit. Beautiful lake with splash pad and park for the kids to play nice beach area," shares Sherrie N.
Consider sand-based tent sites: Some campgrounds feature specially designed tent areas. "The park was very quiet and clean. The shower house and bathrooms were clean too. We camped in a tent and they have sand pits for the tents to sit in," explains Alayna J. about Lake D'Arbonne.
Plan indoor alternatives: Weather can change quickly. "It rained the entire weekend but we still had a blast on the trials and docks," reports James T. about enjoying Lake D'Arbonne despite poor weather conditions.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling: Some RV sites require additional effort to level. "Just have to be careful what sight you book, because I almost never got my camper level in sight #21. All in all, I would make a return trip," advises Gary G. about Chemin-A-Haut State Park.
Prepare for limited sewer hookups: Not all parks offer full hookups at every site. "Only down side, no sewage hookup, only a dump station. Not a big deal for a weekend visit, but may be an inconvenience if it were a longer stay," notes Katina T. about Jimmie Davis State Park.
Large pads available: RV campers will find adequate space at most parks. "Beautiful park. Large concrete pads with fire pit and table. Laundry and wifi. Wifi worked well in c14," shares John R. about his stay during inclement weather at Jimmie Davis State Park.
