Tent campsites near Gorum, Louisiana offer primitive camping opportunities surrounded by longleaf pine forests and sandstone outcroppings. The area sits within the Kisatchie National Forest at elevations ranging from 200-300 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain unusual for Louisiana. Forest roads accessing these camping areas often become difficult to navigate after heavy rainfall, with many requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Trail exploration: 14+ miles of hiking on the Caroline Dorman Trail connects multiple camping areas. At Kisatchie Bayou NF Campground, "the Caroline Dorman trail runs right off of the spaces out camp sites. Setting up camp along the small rapids made for some wonderful relaxing and naps," notes camper Van N.
Swimming in clear water creeks: Most visitors don't expect the water clarity found at Kisatchie Bayou. One camper described it as having "beautiful sounding creek, there is a beach to lay out on while the kids play in the water or you can hit the Caroline Dorman trail on foot or horseback."
Wildlife observation: frequent encounters with deer, bobcats, and various bird species. At Coyote Camp, camper Daisee Mae S. reported, "We have seen a lot of snakes and it rains a lot. Some bees but not a serious nuisance. So just be aware when walking on the trails. Lots of deer and bobcats."
What campers like
Natural soundscape: The rushing water creates natural white noise at several camping areas. "The hardwood and pine forest has lain down a beautiful carpet under your feet with very little noise when you walk. NO WATER. Nice parking area and great hiking," writes N I. about Kisatchie Bayou NF Campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting means minimal light pollution. Camper Fabein D. noted Coyote Camp offers "extremely quiet, great dark sky opportunities. Mostly used as a hunter's camp. Direct access to the overlook and the sandstone trail."
Privacy between sites: Most tent camping areas near Gorum maintain good separation between campsites. At Red Bluff Camp, "It is very remote and secluded, which we loved," according to Christy P., who added that despite challenging weather, "It is fun to find solutions as a group, and with kids."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have spotty or no connectivity. At Coyote Camp, some visitors report "two to three bars of Verizon 4g, fast service" while others have no service at all.
Toilet facilities vary widely: Some areas have well-maintained vault toilets while others have none. The Stuart Complex features "campground and bathrooms clean, quiet except the background highway noise," according to See P., who appreciated the lake being "pretty, and small, able to walk all the way around the lake in about 20 minutes."
Road conditions can be challenging: Forest roads deteriorate after rain. One Coyote Camp visitor mentioned, "The road here is a little rutted out and has a couple of potholes, but nothing crazy," while another noted, "Our GPS put us on a dirt road for a few miles - however it was well maintained and not too rutted."
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings insects while winter offers more comfortable temperatures. During cooler months at Coyote Camp, visitors noted "not as many bugs but it's still warm and temps reached the mid 80's."
Tips for camping with families
Lake-based camping options: For families preferring more amenities, Indian Creek Recreation Area offers developed facilities with "multiple sandy beach areas to the playgrounds, there was lot for my elementary age children to do," according to Sarah L.
Fire safety preparation: Bring a portable fire pit if visiting during dry conditions. "We just surrounded our fire pit with leaves and pine needles to help dry the area and we were good to go," shared a Red Bluff camper about adapting to wet conditions.
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystem provides teaching moments about forest ecology. Kayla H. from Indian Creek noted, "Campers should definitely be aware & cautious of wildlife in the area, but the campgrounds are use frequently enough that most animals stay away from those areas."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Limited options exist for anything over 26 feet. At Hunters Camp - Calcasieu Ranger District, "My wife and I camped here just before memorial day and had the entire campsite to ourselves. I imagine during hunting season this camp is quite busy, however we found it very peaceful in the off months," notes Danny H.
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks as many sites have uneven terrain. Rod F. at Coyote Camp found "at least three sites that could accommodate our 26' class C" despite the primitive nature of the campground.
Supply planning: No hookups or water available at most sites. "There is no water and signs say pack in and pack out but there was a trash bin," writes a camper about Hunters Camp, highlighting the need to arrive fully stocked with necessities.
