Toledo Bend Reservoir spans the Louisiana-Texas border, offering over 1,200 miles of shoreline for camping near Florien, Louisiana. Situated within the piney woods of western Louisiana at approximately 172 feet above sea level, this area provides year-round camping options. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with summer temperatures regularly reaching the 90s and winter occasionally dipping below freezing.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Ragtown Campground, campers can fish directly from the shoreline. "Half the sites are closed but it looks like they are about done fixing them. So much wildlife and no one else around. Beautiful area," notes Amanda C., adding that "you can hike the shore pretty far."
Swimming at designated beaches: Colfax RV Park offers swimming access along with other water activities. "The park has lots of picnic areas (34) set up under shade trees. Some sites have tent pads, but not all. They all have picnic tables and fire pits," explains Paula W.
Hiking nearby trails: The Kisatchie National Forest provides hiking opportunities near Florien. Tyler B. from Kisatchie Bayou Complex shares, "Primitive camping along the 10mi Backbone trail. Took out the hammock and camped out around the halfway mark along the trail. The backbone trail has to be the prettiest trail in the state of Louisiana."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the quiet settings available at many campgrounds. "It was amazing! There's only 8 or so sites now but they are going to open more. We motorcycled to it from Houston and it was a beautiful ride! So many creatures and no busy city sounds," reports Amanda C. about Sabine National Forest Ragtown.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers mention facility cleanliness as a highlight. "Large sites, few trees, manicured landscaping and clean bathhouses. Really quite with friendly park rangers," notes Linda S. about Colfax RV Park.
Fishing access: The reservoir is known for excellent fishing. At Grand Bayou Resort, one camper mentioned, "This camp ground is well kept. There is a nice beach and really nice fishing pears and dock," according to Lane M., who tries "to camp there once a year."
What you should know
Reservation options: Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. At Cypress Bend State Rec Area, Dorothy P. notes, "Special arrangements can be made for late arrivals of registered guests."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation for cold temperatures. For yurt camping in Florien, Louisiana, temperatures can drop significantly in winter months.
Limited services: Many campgrounds have minimal nearby stores or services. At Ragtown Campground, Amanda C. advises, "There aren't stores near by so don't forget anything."
Terrain challenges: Some sites require leveling equipment. At Grand Bayou Resort, Lee T. cautions, "Site are humped on pull Thur sites so long rigs will have trouble leveling."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities. Kevin L. from Cypress Bend State Rec Area recommends, "Great views of the lake. Beautiful sunsets. Beach, playground, volleyball, cabins, pavilion, full hookups, multiple boat ramps, open water!"
Water activities for kids: Florien-area yurt camping puts families close to swimming areas. "Picnic tables and grills available. Swimming, camping, hiking, and canoeing can all be done here," Wendy D. explains about Kisatchie Bayou Complex.
Holiday light festivals: Winter campers can enjoy seasonal events nearby. Savanah H. shares about Grand Bayou Resort, "We stayed at this campground in December 2021. It was close enough to enjoy the light festival in natchitoches."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require substantial leveling. Jim P. from COE Sam Rayburn Reservoir San Augustine Park notes, "Sure was very long and spacious with a great view of the lake. Sure was a little uneven, so some leveling was required."
Electrical connections: Check amperage before booking. RaD_Travels reports about Sam Rayburn Reservoir, "A picnic table, fire-pit, lantern post, 30A electric, and water are provided. This is a back-in site that slopes significantly to the rear(lake side) though. I needed to lower the front of my 34' fifth wheel trailer 16" to level it."
Dump station locations: Know where dump stations are located. RaD_Travels adds, "The dump station is conveniently located on the right side just before exiting the campground."
