The Forest Hill area of central Louisiana offers outdoor options with many campgrounds spread across Rapides Parish. Located in the gently rolling terrain of Louisiana's Kisatchie National Forest region, Forest Hill features hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through September, and mild winters. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round with electricity available to combat the summer heat during peak camping season.
What to do
Boating and fishing at Cotile Lake: Visitors staying at Hidden Treasure RV Resort enjoy direct lake access. "There is a small boat launch/fishing area. A couple of the guests are long term, but it is very quiet here," notes one camper who appreciated the peaceful atmosphere.
Water activities for families: The indoor and outdoor water features at Gator Grounds RV Resort provide entertainment regardless of weather. "Great campground! It was a very cold weekend but indoor water fun was awesome, kept the kids occupied. It was mardi gras weekend so parade was unbelievable!!!" shared one visitor who camped during winter.
Casino entertainment within walking distance: For adult entertainment, several casino-adjacent RV parks offer easy access. "The casino had a shuttle service to take you back and forth to the casino and it runs all day and most of the night. The casino itself has a movie theater, spa, entertainment venues, an arcade for families, restaurants and a coffeehouse."
Kayaking opportunities: Some campgrounds offer equipment rentals for water recreation. "Had such a great and relaxing time! Rented the kayak for an hour multi times. Water is cold and refreshing," mentioned a visitor about their paddling experience.
What campers like
Easy access to outdoor recreation: Campers appreciate parks with direct water access. "This is a quiet park right on the Red River. Sunsets are amazing over the river," reports a visitor at Colfax Recreation Area RV Park & Campground, adding "The sites are spaced nicely and tucked into the trees."
Clean facilities: Many reviewers specifically mention cleanliness as a deciding factor. "The property is remarkably clean and well kept! Always a worker around to help!" reported one camper who was impressed with maintenance standards.
Cultural events and seasonal activities: Louisiana camping includes unique cultural experiences. "We've not been during the summer, but we loved our kids' Mardi Gras weekend here. Lots of cultural fun and activities for kids and family," shared a camper at Lakeview Park, noting "Barn dances on a lot of weekends with live bands."
Level sites with good hookups: RVers consistently mention site quality in their reviews. "Concrete level sites with patio and picnic table. Full hookups with cable TV," noted a visitor at Red Shoes RV Park & Chalets, appreciating the well-maintained infrastructure.
What you should know
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the area require leveling equipment. "No matter what site you are in, you will need to level your rv," notes a visitor about Hidden Treasure RV Resort. Similarly, another camper shared, "The sites are not level, but that may change with their improvements."
Weather considerations: Central Louisiana summers can be extremely hot and humid. Multiple reviews mention the importance of good air conditioning and shade. "Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park. Fall has been great because of the nice fire pits," indicating seasonal preferences.
Pool and amenity hours: Some facilities close earlier than expected. "Unfortunately we didn't have much time because we didn't realize the outside pool area closes at 7pm. Bummer! Really? Fourth of July weekend and you close down at 7pm!"
Distance from attractions: When staying near Pontchartrain Landing RV Resort, one camper advised, "There is no shuttle to downtown anymore. A free shuttle would have made our stay perfect. We don't have a tow car, so getting downtown was a little bit of a hassle."
Tips for camping with families
Water amenities for kids: Several rv sites near Forest Hill, Louisiana offer water features. "Indoor pools and splash pads were open and heated. The showers, extremely clean," reported one winter visitor, while another mentioned "Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park."
Seasonal events: Holiday celebrations provide extra entertainment. "Fall has been great because of the nice fire pits and we are now a huge fan of their Halloween celebration. The camping spots really go all out in decorating for the kids."
Alternative accommodations: For mixed groups with non-RVers. "There's also cabins to rent for those without campers or for friends to come stay," mentions a Red Shoes visitor, while another campground review notes, "Cabins and an apartment are also available to rent."
Activity diversity: Look for campgrounds with multiple recreational options. "Amenities include pools, water slides, lazy river, hot tubs, volleyball pool, indoor pool/slide/splash pad, beach volleyball court, basketball court, hay bale 'obstacle course', pond, camp store, mini restaurant."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Experienced RVers suggest: "I highly recommend staying in the 70's spots. Shade, flat level areas, with fire rings and tables." Another visitor advised, "Neighbors are close by not crammed in. The site included: picnic table and fire ring."
Hookup placement: Pay attention to utility locations when setting up. "Utilities: 20/30/50A electric in middle of site. Water in middle of site, good pressure. Sewer in middle of site with 4-in screw-on fitting," noted one detailed review about campgrounds near Forest Hill, Louisiana.
Cell service information: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. "AT&T had 2 bars of LTE. AT&T Speedtest: 7.6 Mbps down, 1.07 Mbps up," reported one tech-savvy camper, providing specific performance details.
Extended stay options: Several campgrounds accommodate longer visits. "Like most rv parks in the area, this one has a number of long term residents, but this one was a little bigger and nicer than most I saw."
