Best Equestrian Camping near Gardner, LA
Horse-friendly campgrounds in Kisatchie National Forest offer equestrians several options near Gardner, Louisiana. Ahtus Melder Camp provides primitive camping with space for horses and trailers in a grassy area surrounded by mature trees. The campground accommodates RVs and tents with plenty of open space for grazing horses. Rustic Sky Horse Camp offers more amenities including electric hookups, water connections, picnic tables, and sewer hookups for campers traveling with horses. Both locations maintain well-marked multiuse trails. During rainy periods, Ahtus Melder Camp can become very muddy and challenging for horse trailers to navigate.
The Kisatchie National Forest trail system connects riders to miles of scenic riding paths with varying terrain. Oak Camp Complex specifically prohibits OHVs to prevent horses from being spooked, creating a quieter environment for equestrians. A $5 fee applies for using the Sandstone Trail and Claiborne Trail systems, with some campgrounds charging an additional $5-10 nightly fee. Lotus Camp provides access to the Sandstone Trail network with drinking water and toilet facilities available. Most equestrian sites throughout the forest require pack-in, pack-out practices. The forests become especially busy during hunting season, so equestrians should plan accordingly and check for seasonal logging operations that might temporarily affect trail access.
