Camping sites near Florien, Louisiana center around Toledo Bend Reservoir, a 185,000-acre lake with depths reaching 110 feet in some areas. The Sabine National Forest extends along the eastern shores, creating diverse terrain for campers seeking waterfront or wooded experiences. Winter temperatures can drop to the low 20s, while summer months regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity levels.
What to do
Hiking on Backbone Trail: At Kisatchie Bayou Complex, visitors can explore the 10-mile Backbone Trail, which offers rare elevation changes for Louisiana. "The backbone trail has to be the prettiest trail in the state of Louisiana. It's really the only place in the state to experience actual hills," notes one camper who recorded temperatures dropping to 23 degrees during a winter overnight stay.
Paddling and swimming: Water activities are popular at many lakeside campgrounds during warmer months. "This campground is just steps away from the bayou where you can launch a canoe or kayak depending on the water level. Fishing and swimming are great pastimes here," writes a visitor to Kisatchie Bayou Complex, which features a stream with a natural beach area.
Scuba diving: Toledo Bend offers underwater exploration opportunities not commonly associated with Louisiana. A camper at South Toledo Bend State Park Campground mentions, "The lake is known for Bass Fishing and is listed as one of the best bass fishing lakes in the country. I've also read that the lake has great areas for scuba diving, if you are into that."
What campers like
Waterfront decks: Many campsites at South Toledo Bend State Park include built-in wooden structures. "The site had a really nice wooden deck and a lovely view of the lake. There was a short walking path to the dock which we left our boat at with no problems," shares one visitor who appreciated this unique feature.
Wildlife viewing: Winter brings special bird watching opportunities. "Spotted an eagle out our window," reports a camper at North Toledo Bend State Park Campground, while another mentions that "Bald Eagles are often seen during late Fall, Winter months, and early Spring" at Toledo Bend.
Swimming beaches: Designated swimming areas provide family-friendly water access. At Cypress Bend State Rec Area, campers enjoy "a renovated beach area, playground, volleyball court, covered pavilions with picnic tables, restrooms, and a 6-lane paved boat ramp" according to a recent visitor who rated the facilities highly.
What you should know
Seasonal fluctuations: Campground accessibility changes throughout the year. "We stayed early February 2021. Beautiful campground with lots of space in between sites... But we loved the solitude," notes a camper at South Toledo Bend, highlighting the off-season benefits.
Local wildlife cautions: Campers should be prepared for encounters with local fauna. "The raccoons are professional thieves at this state park, so you need to put your food away at night," warns a visitor regarding South Toledo Bend State Park.
Road conditions: Many campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Indian Mounds Recreation Area, visitors note the area offers "RV and tent campsites come with a fire ring, a picnic table, and potable water. Good views of the lake and situated in forest area," but others mention limited cell service and primitive facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly recreation areas. At Cypress Bend State Rec Area, "There's also a playground and volleyball court, which is great if you're bringing kids," according to a visitor who appreciated the family amenities beyond water activities.
Military family options: Fort Polk MWR South Toledo Bend provides specialized camping facilities. "This is a private campground for military, veterans, and their families. They have cabins, yurts, and tent sites. We stayed in a yurt and it was very comfortable. Nice clean beach and plenty of boat rentals," shares a recent visitor.
Primitive camping with facilities: For families wanting an introduction to more rustic camping, Kisatchie Bayou offers a middle ground. "Toilets are available by the parking lot, but no sinks. Bring extra toilet paper just in case they run out," advises a camper who still rated the experience highly.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose camping locations based on your specific needs. At Mid Lake Campground, visitors note "Only 3 sites with water view. View was great. Friendly staff. Good store with bait. Good utilities, fire pits well maintained. Easy check in on line."
Leveling challenges: Many lakeside sites require careful setup due to slopes. A South Toledo Bend camper advises, "When you unhitch from your tow vehicle, make sure you have your chocks down or you may end up in the lake. Pads aren't necessarily difficult to level your camper but beware of your blocks because your hitch will be sitting on the ground."
Distance to services: Plan for limited nearby amenities. "The closest store (gas station) with any necessities is about a 20min drive each way," notes a camper about South Toledo Bend State Park, emphasizing the importance of arriving prepared with supplies.
