Lake Claiborne and Lake D'Arbonne state parks feature prominently in the Homer, Louisiana region, offering both traditional camping and glamping options throughout all seasons. These parks are set in north Louisiana's hilly terrain, a departure from the state's typically flat landscape. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F, while summer months can reach 90°F with high humidity, making climate-controlled accommodations particularly valuable during peak seasons.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Lake Claiborne State Park features two well-maintained disc golf courses that attract enthusiasts. "Many wonderfully marked hiking trails, two of the best frisbe golf courses in Louisiana," notes Sarah B. about Lake Claiborne State Park.
Waterfront activities: Caney Lake at Jimmie Davis State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities. "Good lake for fishing and water sports, many sites you can park your boat very close," explains Adam R. about Jimmie Davis State Park.
Tennis and recreation: Beyond water activities, Lake D'Arbonne provides land-based sports options. "Tennis courts, swimming pool (closed for winter), horse shoe pit, laundry mat, disc golf, and awesome clean bathrooms," states Steve S. about the amenities at Lake D'Arbonne.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at Lake Claiborne receive consistent praise for cleanliness. "Bath houses are new, clean and climate controlled. Plenty of sites to choose from when I stayed though all of the waterfront sites were taken," shares Jason W. about Lake Claiborne State Park.
Waterfront sites: Premium lakefront camping spots are highly sought after for their views and access. "We stayed here at site 14. Had a long pier over the water, and plenty of space between campers," describes Cat R., highlighting the appeal of waterfront glamping close to Homer, Louisiana.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides abundant wildlife observation opportunities. "Very pretty camping area... Lake Claiborne was a gorgeous lake to kayak on," mentions another camper, pointing to the natural appeal that attracts visitors to glamping experiences near Homer.
What you should know
Connectivity limitations: Cell service and Wi-Fi can be unreliable in the area. "Wi-Fi did not work anywhere in park (signal broadcasted fine just no connection to internet). AT&T is non existent," reports Brent C. about Lake D'Arbonne State Park.
Varying hookup options: Not all sites offer the same amenities. "Nice hilly trails, huge/nice pool, nice cabins, fishing piers, plenty of tent and RV spots," explains Zack M. about Lake D'Arbonne State Park, highlighting the variety of accommodation types.
Seasonal considerations: Facilities have different availability based on time of year. "The only really bad thing was that there was poison ivy all around our campsite," cautions Sam B., pointing to natural hazards visitors should watch for when enjoying glamping near Homer.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Multiple parks offer dedicated children's areas. "There's a nice little beach where the kids can play and a playground area as well," says Sarah B. about Lake Claiborne State Park.
Biking opportunities: Paved areas provide safe cycling for children. "She really enjoyed riding her bike around the campground," shares Larry about his wife's experience at Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area.
Educational experiences: Some parks offer wildlife learning opportunities. "Clean, well kept park. Has a nice splash pad and beach for kids. Also a couple parks and many hammocks," reports Katina T. about Jimmie Davis State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Some sites require additional equipment for proper setup. "Not level ground, but we managed with enough blocks to get it level. This was a back in site," advises Cat R. about their experience at Lake Claiborne State Park.
Hookup arrangements: The location of utility connections can be unusual at some sites. "Hookups are a little backwards," warns Carrie I. about Cypress Black Bayou, suggesting RVers should inspect site layouts before setup.
Dump station logistics: Plan accordingly for parks without full sewer hookups. "No sewage hookup, only a dump station. Not a big deal for a weekend visit, but may be an inconvenience if it were a longer stay," advises Katina T. about Jimmie Davis State Park's facilities.
