Kisatchie National Forest offers primitive tent camping opportunities near Forest Hill, Louisiana within a region featuring rolling hills, pine forests, and unique sandstone outcrops. The area sits at elevations ranging from 100 to 400 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the forest. Camping options include both free dispersed sites and low-cost established campgrounds with varying levels of facilities depending on the ranger district.
What to do
Creek swimming: At Kisatchie Bayou Campground, campers can enjoy natural swimming holes during warmer months. "This is a US Forest Service campground. It's located on the Caroline Dorman trail. When the water levels are high there are beautiful waterfalls," notes reviewer Cheri H. The clear water provides a refreshing break from summer heat.
Hiking opportunities: The Sandstone Trail system near Coyote Camp offers miles of trails through diverse terrain. "Direct access to the overlook and the sandstone trail," mentions reviewer Fabein D. These trails range from easy walks to more challenging routes with elevation changes.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds provide fishing opportunities on small lakes and bayous. At Indian Creek, campers can "launch our kayaks from our RV site" according to Cat R., making it convenient for anglers to access the water. The lakes contain bass, bream, and catfish depending on the location.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Coyote Camp offers dispersed sites with minimal crowds. "Quiet, isolated but yet easily accessible. We found at least three sites that could accommodate our 26' class C," reports Rod F. The camp provides free stays with a 14-day limit.
Water features: Many campers appreciate the sound of running water at their campsite. "Camp next to this beautiful sounding creek, there is a beach to lay out on while the kids play in the water," shares Alex F. about Kisatchie Bayou Campground.
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive, many campgrounds maintain clean facilities. At Valentine Lake South Shore, Keith R. notes "The bathouse is real nice... But the canoeing is wonderful there... Very peaceful & quiet during the week but gets a little noisy on the weekends & holidays." Basic amenities like vault toilets are regularly maintained.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires traveling on unpaved roads. "The road here is a little rutted out and has a couple of potholes, but nothing crazy," explains Daisee Mae S. about Coyote Camp. Many backcountry sites become difficult to access after heavy rainfall.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife interactions in camp. "We were visited by raccoons one night, but they were easily & quickly scared away. Campers should definitely be aware & cautious of wildlife in the area," advises Kayla H. about Indian Creek Recreation Area. Snakes, wild hogs, and insects are common throughout the region.
Seasonal variations: Weather significantly impacts the camping experience. "In winter months, tent campers often find greater solitude at these locations," while "this is a great location especially if you are backpacking the Caroline Dorman Trail," according to Cheri H. regarding Kisatchie Bayou Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Stuart Complex offers family-friendly swimming areas. "Small beach for playing," mentions See P., while Paula W. describes "a swimming beach, picnic tables and barbeque pits" in the day use area. The shallow water edges provide safer swimming for children.
Organized activities: Indian Creek Recreation Area caters specifically to families. Sarah L. notes it "is a campground that is designed for young families, from the multiple sandy beach areas to the playgrounds, there was lot for my elementary age children to do." However, she cautions that "there were a lot of kids running around unsupervised" during busy periods.
Quieter periods: For families seeking peaceful outings, timing matters. "We went during the week, so it was quiet," shares Cat R. about her family's experience. Weekday camping, especially during school sessions, provides a more controlled environment for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Finding level sites can be challenging at some campgrounds. "We have a 21' travel trailer and barely fit it and our Toyota Tundra in site 52," reports Layla D. about Indian Creek Recreation Area. She recommends site 56 which had "a HUGE backyard leading down to the lake" and made them feel "like 'kings of the mountain'."
Dump station locations: While most primitive tent sites lack hookups, some campgrounds provide dump stations. Valentine Lake South Shore includes a sanitary dump for RVers, making it a practical stop during longer trips through the area.
Size limitations: Many forest campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. Rod F. notes at Coyote Camp they "found at least three sites that could accommodate our 26' class C," but larger RVs would struggle with both access roads and site dimensions throughout most of the Kisatchie National Forest campgrounds.
