Best Dispersed Camping near Forest Hill, LA

The Kisatchie National Forest surrounds Forest Hill, Louisiana, offering numerous dispersed camping options within a predominantly pine forest ecosystem. Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail provides primitive camping along its nearly 18-mile route, with campsites required to be at least 30 feet from the trail centerline. The Evangeline Camp Complex near Boyce offers more developed facilities with electric and water hookups, while Hunter's Camp and Highway 472 Camp provide free dispersed camping options with basic amenities like vault toilets. Most sites in the region operate year-round, with several designated hunter camps that become particularly active during hunting seasons for deer and turkey.

Road conditions throughout the camping areas vary significantly with weather patterns. As one camper noted, "The road is fine. A little hard to get through if it's wet. The spots to stay in have very rutted roads." Cell service is limited or nonexistent at many sites, particularly at Forest Road 380 where campers report "ZERO cell service." Natural water sources are available, including a piped spring near Forest Road 380 that locals use for drinking water. Temperature fluctuations can be dramatic, with normally warm weather occasionally interrupted by cold fronts. Many sites have a 30-day maximum stay limit and follow Leave No Trace principles, with several requiring campers to pack out all trash as no collection services exist.

Pine forests dominate the camping landscape, creating distinctive experiences across different sites. At Hunter's Camp, "yellow pines create random shade" in an area "open to the sky," making it suitable for solar charging. Wildlife sightings are common, with Valentine Lake known for "lots of gators and big snapping turtles," making swimming inadvisable though fishing remains popular. Fall camping receives particular praise from visitors, with one noting, "We will be back to this spot during the fall to see the leaves change colors." The Wild Azalea Trail offers "plenty of ups and downs and some rough terrain" with "adequate running streams to get water for filtering," though hikers should prepare for hot conditions during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Forest Hill, Louisiana (7)

    1. Evangeline Camp Complex

    2 Reviews
    Gardner, LA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (318) 473-7160

    "Great trail. Very well marked and maintained. Some wet areas but not bad. Awesome primitive camping sites along trail."

    "Very clean and and kept up very well nicely shaded"

    2. Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail

    4 Reviews
    Gardner, LA
    16 miles
    Website

    "I hiked about 7.5 miles in from the Valentine Lake trailhead to a large clearing by the bridge with a nice cool stream. There are other clearings nearby which would be great for a small group camp."

    "There is both primitive and fixed campsites.you have a couple Small trails in and around Valentine lake, or you caan hop on wild azeala trail and hike it. Its just short of 18 miles start to finish."

    3. Hunter's Camp

    1 Review
    Fort Polk, LA
    35 miles

    "Map shows a camping loop that appears to have been abandoned by the Forest Service. It had a dead hog blocking the loop."

    4. Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest

    2 Reviews
    Gorum, LA
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (318) 472-1840

    "No trash pick up. No water hook ups.

    There is however, a natural spring that is piped just as you enter FR380. Locals come here to fill water. It’s very fresh and refreshing."

    "The drive there was beautiful. Getting to the camp site was pretty straightforward through google Maps. You can pull ur vehicle right up your camp site."

    5. Highway 472 Camp

    3 Reviews
    Winnfield, LA
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (318) 793-9427

    "Vault toilets, too. 2 bars Verizon service, enough to send/recieve & use internet/gps. Close to the road but nicely wooded."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Forest Hill, LA

1 Photos of 7 Forest Hill Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Forest Hill, LA

12 Reviews of 7 Forest Hill Campgrounds



Guide to Forest Hill

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Forest Hill, Louisiana, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail

  • The Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail offers a unique experience with both primitive and fixed campsites, making it a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Hikers can explore the Wild Azalea Trail, which stretches nearly 18 miles, providing stunning views and a chance to encounter local wildlife along the way.
  • While fishing is excellent in the lake, it's advisable to avoid swimming due to the presence of alligators and snapping turtles.

Top activities while free camping near Forest Hill

  • At the Evangeline Camp Complex, visitors can enjoy well-maintained trails that are perfect for hiking and exploring the Kisatchie National Forest.
  • The area is known for its beautiful scenery and shaded spots, making it an ideal location for picnicking and relaxing after a day of outdoor activities.
  • Campers can take advantage of the nearby streams for water filtration, ensuring a refreshing experience while enjoying the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Forest Hill, Louisiana

  • When visiting Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest, be prepared for a completely primitive experience with no amenities, which allows for a true back-to-nature adventure.
  • It's essential to pack out what you pack in, as there are no trash services available, ensuring the area remains pristine for future visitors.
  • For those seeking solitude, this location offers a peaceful environment with minimal foot traffic, making it perfect for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Forest Hill, LA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Forest Hill, LA is Evangeline Camp Complex with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Forest Hill, LA?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Forest Hill, LA, with real photos and reviews from campers.