Equestrian camping near Anacoco, Louisiana offers varied terrain spanning over 600,000 acres of Kisatchie National Forest. The area receives approximately 55 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush undergrowth and seasonal creeks that flow through the pine and hardwood forests. Camping facilities range from completely primitive sites with no amenities to moderately developed grounds with basic utilities for both horse owners and standard campers.
What to do
Trail riding at Claiborne Trail: The trail system requires a $5 day-use fee and connects to Ahtus Melder Camp, providing extensive routes for horseback riding. "This is a really great spot and plenty of room for all. Great open green space for grazing. No reason to park next to your neighbor," notes camper N I.
OTV riding at Sandstone Trail: Lotus Camp provides dedicated sites for off-road vehicle enthusiasts with trail access. "This camp is for the purpose of OTV riding but regular camping is allowed. Drinking water, flush toilet, picnic table, fire ring, trash," according to camper N I., who adds "This really is a great place for the family and all the family fun."
Hiking wilderness trails: The forest contains multiple hiking paths connecting camping areas. "We hiked along a few trails that were open and it was really fun, mostly flat hikes," reports Hannah L., noting that "Night time will bring about the coyotes and all their lovely howls, so be prepared for some noises come dark."
What campers like
Affordability of campsites: Most forest service campgrounds charge minimal fees ranging from free to $10 per night. At Hunters Camp, Conrad V. states, "Can't beat free. The Hunter Camp is situated just off range road. You're surrounded by wilderness. The only amenities are a vault toilet."
Privacy between sites: The campgrounds typically offer adequate separation between camping areas. One camper reports about Ahtus Melder Camp: "This campground is free and will accommodate RVs, tents, and trailers. No facilities, totally primitive."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, campground cleanliness receives consistent positive mentions. Regarding Enduro Complex, Paula W. notes, "This is dispersed camping with a pavilion and vault toilets available. No water, must pack it in." She adds that "The trails are very well marked."
What you should know
Seasonal visitation patterns: During hunting seasons, expect significantly more visitors. At Oak Camp Complex, N I. reports: "The area is VERY busy during hunting season. We will return one day."
Insect protection essential: Bug spray is necessary equipment year-round. "Don't forget sunscreen, water, bug and tick repellant," warns Paula W., while another camper mentions, "Because of its location so deep in the woods mosquitoes, horseflies, and yellow flies were in abundance. Using a therma cell was perfect at keeping them at bay."
Limited cellular service: Most forest campgrounds have minimal to no cell reception. Come prepared with offline maps and emergency contact plans since service becomes unreliable several miles into the forest areas.
Tips for camping with families
Bring portable water: Most horse camps lack drinking water. "There is no water, vault toilets and lots of trees and space to play," notes Paula W. about Oak Camp Complex, making water containers essential for family stays.
Plan for bathroom limitations: Toilet facilities vary considerably between sites. "There is one bathroom within the campground, or at least what we could find. It was a porta-potty style, and smelt so bad," reports Analia F. at Brookeland Lake Sam Rayburn KOA, suggesting families bring their own toilet paper.
Consider weekday visits: Weekends often bring larger groups with horses or ATVs. Trevor H. shares about Ebenezer Park: "We ended up being neighbors with a large group that was using their fire like a bonfire so we let the park host know about it. Probably won't come back unless in off season."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility after rain: Access roads can deteriorate quickly following precipitation. N I. warns about Ahtus Melder: "Site is well maintained but if it has rained it could be very muddy."
Flat parking areas: Hunters Camp provides level sites for vehicles. Danny H. notes, "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."
RV length limitations: Some campgrounds accommodate larger rigs despite being primitive. Frankie W. shares about Oak Camp Complex: "We got our 43 ft 5th wheel in just fine. There are atvs out here they didn't bother us."
