Lake Claiborne State Park Campground offers cabin stays within a pine forest setting approximately 5 miles from Homer. The park features numerous hiking trails ranging from 0.5 to 2 miles, including the King of the Mountain Trail with wooden bridges spanning small waterfalls. Cabin camping options in the Homer area typically require reservations, especially during summer months when waterfront units fill quickly. Winter visits provide more availability and often lower rates at most area parks.
What to do
Hiking trails for all skill levels: Lake Claiborne State Park Campground offers marked trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. "Stunning Views with Great Amenities. We tent camp here in early Spring in the camping area #2 and comeback weekend after weekend. Many wonderfully marked hiking trails... The King of the Mountain Trail is my favorite because of its wooden bridge and tiny waterfall," notes one visitor.
Disc golf courses: Lake Claiborne State Park Campground maintains two disc golf courses for visitors. "We tent camp here in early Spring in the camping area #2 and comeback weekend after weekend. Many wonderfully marked hiking trails, two of the best frisbe golf courses in Louisiana," explains a camper who frequents the park.
Swimming areas: Parks around Homer maintain designated swimming zones with beach access. Lake Claiborne State Park features "a nice little beach where the kids can play and a playground area as well," according to a regular visitor. Most swimming areas have seasonal operation between April and October, with no lifeguards present.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Lake Bistineau State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "The bathroom/shower house was clean. It was a little ways from I-20 but overall decent park," reports one tent camper. Another visitor notes, "Showers/bathrooms were spotless. One minor drawback—no sewer sites."
Lakeside views: Cabins positioned along the water provide direct views of the cypress-lined lakes. "Very pretty camping area. We stayed here at site 14. Had a long pier over the water, and plenty of space between campers. Not level ground, but we managed with enough blocks to get it level," shares a Lake Claiborne visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Lake D'Arbonne State Park offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities from cabin sites. "Lake Darbonne is our first experience with camping. I really didn't know what to expect but we really loved it: the staff is really helpful, the campsite is really cosy, the view on the lake is beautiful," writes one first-time camper. Another visitor at Lake Claiborne State Park notes, "TONS of deer, nice little beach area."
What you should know
Varied cell service: Network coverage differs significantly between properties in the Homer area. "Wi-Fi did not work anywhere in park (signal broadcasted fine just no connection to internet) AT&T is non existent," reports a Lake Claiborne visitor. At Kels Kove near Homer, "ATT works best, Verizon and Tmobie are spotty reception."
Seasonal lake levels: Water levels fluctuate at several lakes, which affects fishing and boat access. "Didn't realize they lowered the lake. My fault for not investigating more," mentions a cabin guest at Lake Bistineau. Some piers may not reach water during certain seasons, particularly fall and winter months.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. Lake Claiborne State Park typically books 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends, while winter weekdays often have same-week availability. Cancellation policies typically require 48-72 hours notice for refunds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jimmie Davis State Park Campground offers multiple child-friendly play areas. "Clean, well kept park. Has a nice splash pad and beach for kids. Also a couple parks and many hammocks," shares one family visitor. Most playgrounds are positioned near bath houses for convenience.
Nature exploration: Lake Claiborne State Park provides educational opportunities through marked trails. "The pavement is well kept and great for kids to ride bikes or scooters," notes a visitor, highlighting the family-friendly design of the facilities.
Water activities for children: Many cabin locations include shallow swimming areas suitable for younger visitors. "Has a nice splash pad and beach for kids," reports a Jimmie Davis State Park visitor. Most splash pads operate seasonally between May and September, with variable hours depending on temperature.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling challenges: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area offers spacious RV sites but some require leveling equipment. "Plenty of room between sites and great views. She really enjoyed riding her bike around the campground," notes an RV camper. Some waterfront sites may require additional blocks for proper leveling.
Full hookup availability: Several parks near Homer now offer complete utility connections. "Only wish they had some full hookup sites available. I hear that's coming soon," mentions a Lake Bistineau camper. Lake D'Arbonne State Park and Kels Kove provide full hookups at select cabin and RV sites, with reservations recommended.
RV size restrictions: Some cabin areas have limitations on accompanying RV parking. Most campgrounds accommodate trailers up to 40 feet, but access roads at some locations have tight turns that prove challenging for larger rigs. Specific site dimensions are typically available when making reservations.
