Camping options near Bossier City sit within Louisiana's Piney Woods region, with numerous waterfront sites along rivers, bayous, and lakes. Average summer temperatures reach 93°F with high humidity, while winters remain mild with occasional freezing temperatures. The terrain combines pine forests with wetland areas, creating diverse camping environments within a 60-mile radius of the city.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area provides excellent fishing from docks or by boat. One visitor noted, "The park is shaded and all sites are either lake side or almost. There are back-in and pull-through sites."
Kayaking through cypress trees: Caddo Lake State Park Campground offers unique paddling experiences through cypress trees with Spanish moss. A camper shared, "Kayaking this area was BEAUTIFUL and just unforgettable from our trip to this part of the state. You get to camp among the trees and spanish moss and water."
Wildlife viewing: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area includes a small wildlife sanctuary. As one reviewer mentioned, "There is a small wildlife sanctuary (zoo but no petting) and free roaming peacocks."
Hiking trails: Beaver Dam Campground offers several hiking and biking trails around Caney Lake. A visitor reported, "Great US Forest Service campground especially if you enjoy hiking, biking or fishing. The Sugar Cane National Recreation Trail loops around the lake."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites with room between neighbors. At Beaver Dam Campground, campers appreciate that "spaces are large and well spaced for privacy. Beautiful lake views."
Clean facilities: Lake Bistineau State Park Campground maintains clean bathrooms and showers. One visitor mentioned, "Stayed in a cabin and it was great! Very clean and useable. Didn't realize they lowered the lake. My fault for not investigating more."
Level concrete pads: Tom Merrill Recreation Area provides stable camping surfaces. A camper observed, "Concrete pads, electric, water, grills, and fire pits all well maintained."
Variety of accommodations: Multiple campgrounds offer options beyond tent sites. At Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area, "Full hook ups and cabins are available as well as tent camping. The tent camping area is separate from RV section though."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Some lakes experience significant water level changes. At Lake Bistineau, one camper noted, "I stopped at this campsite on my way back to atlanta. The views of the 'swamp' are great. It's dry, and apparently has been for some years, so there's a lush grass growing down to the water's edge."
Wildlife considerations: Barksdale AFB FamCamp has specific wildlife concerns. A camper warned, "They have a nice walking trail that circles the base. Stayed in January, ticks were really bad, despite not going into the woods."
Security measures: Some campgrounds have enhanced security. At Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area, "There is a new bathhouse that is very clean and requires a code to be entered on a keypad for entry."
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. At Caddo Lake State Park, a visitor cautioned, "The big turn off for me on this park is that, despite its beauty, there is incessant road noise that you hear from every campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Multiple campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. At Tom Merrill Recreation Area, one visitor noted, "Park of kiddos, fish cleaning station, gun range, and much more!"
Affordable options: Military facilities offer budget-friendly camping. At Barksdale AFB FamCamp, a camper shared, "Tent spots are $4 a night, enclosed in a lightly wooded area, and only few yards away from both the bathroom and the playground."
Swimming areas: Some campgrounds have designated swimming spots. At Shreveport Bossier City KOA, a visitor mentioned, "The campground was clean and they had a pool and playground. Full hook up, no issues."
Cabin options: For families who prefer more shelter, several parks offer cabins. At Caddo Lake State Park, a camper noted, "We loved the cabin, it made winter camping with kids do-able! Loved hiking and exploring!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. At Shreveport Bossier City KOA, a visitor recommended, "Plenty of rom for 44 ft motorhome and Jeep toad without unhooking. Grounds are well maintained and staff friendly."
Power concerns: Electric service varies between campgrounds. At Lake Bistineau, a camper warned, "No sewer sites. I stayed two weeks and had to hook up to dump once (small tanks)."
Dog amenities: For those traveling with pets, Shreveport Bossier City KOA offers "two great dog parks" according to one visitor.
Extended stay considerations: Some campgrounds work better for longer visits. At Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area, a reviewer noted, "The park is close to shopping, casinos, and restaurants. Love this park."
