Equestrian camping near Gardner, Louisiana offers access to diverse terrain throughout the Kisatchie National Forest. The area features longleaf pine forests interspersed with hardwood bottomlands at elevations ranging from 80-300 feet. Seasonal considerations impact accessibility, with many horse trails becoming muddy and challenging during Louisiana's rainy winter months, typically December through March.
What to do
Explore Sandstone Trail system: Riders visiting Lotus Camp gain access to extensive trail networks for day rides. "This camp is for the purpose of OTV riding but regular camping is allowed. Drinking water, flush toilet, picnic table, fire ring, trash," notes N I., who adds that "There are some nice flat new sites that have been installed and it looks like more new ones are coming."
Navigate primitive camping areas: Enduro Complex provides dispersed camping options with basic facilities. "This is dispersed camping with a pavilion and vault toilets available. No water, must pack it in," explains Paula W., who advises that "there are miles and miles of trails attached to this campground. OHV, horse or hiking. Beautiful area, just don't forget sunscreen, water, bug and tick repellant."
Experience historic CCC-era construction: The recreation areas throughout Kisatchie contain structures from the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps. As noted about Gum Springs Recreation Area, "Lots of cool construction around the area from the 1930's. Stairs that come from all areas leading down to the little lake by the campground. Several little gazebos are around the lake, too," according to Chris & Rosanne C.
What campers like
Affordability and basic facilities: Most equestrian camping sites charge minimal fees. "Status: open, Fee: $10.00 per night & $5.00 Sandstone Trail Day Use," reports N I. about Lotus Camp, which offers "drinking water, flush toilet, picnic table, fire ring, trash." At $10 per night, campers receive essential amenities while maintaining a connection to nature.
Peaceful, secluded atmosphere: Despite being near trails, most campsites maintain a quiet environment. "We absolutely loved this campground! It was quiet and felt very secluded. There is a nice hiking trail around the forest," explains Chris & Rosanne C. about Gum Springs Recreation Area, which offers "sites with picnic tables, lantern posts, and fire rings."
Ample space for horses and equipment: Oak Camp Complex provides extensive room for equestrian setups. "Horse and general camping with no OHV camping. NO WATER but there are pit toilets and there was one fire ring. Beautiful pine and hardwoods with a lot of fairly flat area," explains N I., adding that "the area can handle small RV's and trailers."
What you should know
Seasonal impacts on accessibility: Wet conditions significantly affect horse camping experiences. "This really is a great place for the family and all the family fun," says N I. about Lotus Camp, but many trails become challenging during rainy periods, particularly December through March.
Trail usage fees: Most equestrian trails require daily use fees separate from camping costs. The Sandstone Trail charges $5 daily, while most campgrounds have additional per-night fees ranging from $5-10, all paid at self-service stations.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Hunters Camp represents the more basic options in the forest. "2 loops of dispersed camping, grounds not well kept, vault toilet. There is no water and signs say pack in and pack out but there was a trash bin," reports Paula W. Another camper adds, "You're surrounded by wilderness. The only amenities are a vault toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with established facilities: Families appreciate sites with reliable facilities. "There is a vault toilet and one spot for potable water, which is located at one of the campsites by the toilets. Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring and a lantern pole," notes Chris & Rosanne C. about Gum Springs Recreation Area.
Plan activities beyond horseback riding: Many campgrounds offer diverse recreation options for children. "This campground has sites with picnic tables, lantern posts, and fire rings. The grounds are hilly and has great small trails throughout," says Paula W., adding that "the gum springs body of water has large trees across small parts of water allowing the boys to test their balance skills."
Prepare for insects: Forest camping requires insect precautions, especially during warmer months. "Because of its location so deep in the woods mosquitoes, horseflies, and yellow flies were in abundance. Using a therma cell was perfect at keeping them at bay," advises Danny H. about Hunters Camp.
Tips from RVers
Verify access before bringing large rigs: Some horse camps accommodate substantial RVs while others have limitations. "This one is free though and is only about a 2 min drive. No hook ups and we got our 43 ft 5th wheel in just fine," reports Frankie W. about Oak Camp Complex, demonstrating that even larger rigs can access certain areas.
Understand the primitive nature: Most equestrian sites lack typical RV amenities. "For primitive camping this is great," explains Sippi's S. about Lotus Camp, emphasizing that "it has water and a restroom but no shower or electricity." This expectation management is crucial for RVers accustomed to more developed facilities.
Consider campground positioning: Location within the forest affects accessibility. "Fort Polk is close enough for supplies, check your gate schedules," advises Conrad V., adding useful information: "Apparently they're allowing logging around the camp, so do a check before you go set up."
