RV camping near Gardner, Louisiana offers convenient access to both wooded landscapes and waterfront settings. The area sits in central Louisiana's pine country, about 30 miles from Alexandria, with relatively flat terrain and humid subtropical climate conditions. Cell service varies significantly between RV parks, with some locations offering reliable connections while others have minimal coverage depending on carrier.
What to do
Fishing access: Cotile Lake at Hidden Treasure RV Resort provides excellent fishing opportunities with a small boat launch area. "This campground is located on the Cotile lake in Boyce, Louisiana. And it's only about 8 or 10 minutes from I-49, but well worth the time. There is a small boat launch/fishing area," notes camper Ty A.
River exploration: The Red River offers scenic views and water recreation at Colfax Recreation Area RV Park. "This is a quiet park right on the Red River. Sunsets are amazing over the river," reports Gary G. Many visitors use the docks for fishing or launch boats to reach nearby sandbars.
Water activities: Families can enjoy kayaking in protected areas near several parks. "We like to let the kids kayak in the oxbow at the landing. Nice place to go for a short weekend trip to get out the house and on the water!" shares Jessica B. about Colfax Recreation Area.
Casino entertainment: For those seeking indoor recreation, Paragon Casino Resort offers gaming, dining and entertainment within walking distance of its RV park. "The casino has 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," explains Cheri H.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities at parks in the area. "Bath house is sqeeky clean. Laundry available on site," notes one reviewer about Hidden Treasure RV Resort.
Waterfront views: Sites overlooking water bodies rank highly among visitor preferences. "We are in site #17 and it overlooks the lake. Owners are fantastic," shares Ty A. about their stay at Hidden Treasure RV Resort.
Wildlife watching: The natural surroundings provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "Wildlife galore. Slightly hilly with beautiful mature trees, some which have several bird feeders attached!" mentions a Hidden Treasure reviewer.
Spacious sites: Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park offers large concrete pads set among pecan trees. "Nice large pull through sites with easy hook ups. We stayed here for 4 days due to proximity to Kisatchie National Forest," says Casey L., appreciating the generous spacing between sites.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some parks become busier during specific times of year, particularly hunting season and holiday weekends. Advance reservations are recommended, especially for waterfront sites.
Site leveling: Terrain variations require preparation. "Not all sites are level, but that may change with their improvements," notes Cheryl G. about Hidden Treasure RV Resort. Bringing leveling blocks is advised for most parks in the region.
Long-term residents: Several campgrounds near Fort Polk military base function partially as residential communities. "Some RV's had dug in their sewer hoses for a more permanent living arrangement. There were other clues that verified some were living here very long term," explains Granny C. about Shady Lake RV Park.
Water pressure variations: Water systems at some parks may have inconsistent pressure. "The water pressure is a little low, but sufficient," mentions Gary G. about Colfax Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Water park options: Gator Grounds RV Resort features both indoor and outdoor water parks, making it popular with families year-round. "Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park. Fall has been great because of the nice fire pits and we are now a huge fan of their Halloween celebration," shares Josh B.
Seasonal events: Many parks organize special activities during holidays. "It was mardi gras weekend so parade was unbelievable!!! Even caught a couple fish! Very well run park," reports Trent A. about Gator Grounds.
Family-friendly amenities: Parks increasingly offer recreational facilities beyond traditional camping. "There was a playground, a swimming pool, a clubhouse and laundry facilities. My boys loved playing the basketball game in the arcade," shares Cheri H. about her experience at Paragon Casino Resort.
Educational opportunities: Several parks are located near cultural sites. "There's also a boardwalk that connects the casino, campground and Tunica Indian museum and powwow ceremonial grounds and is also great for walking for exercise," notes a Paragon Casino Resort visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when setting up. Most parks offer full hookups with water, electric and sewer connections, but their positioning varies by site.
Pull-through availability: For easier parking, request pull-through sites when available. "There were ample room for our camper which is 32 feet. Our site number 3, had full hookups and room for a couple of canapies," mentions Cat R. about Paragon Casino Resort.
Laundry access: On-site laundry facilities can be found at several parks. "We liked having laundry on site, clean and affordable," notes Casey L. about Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park.
Passport America discounts: Some parks offer significant savings through membership programs. "They also accept Passport America," mentions Cheri H. about Paragon Casino Resort, where discounts can substantially reduce nightly rates.
