Camping near Keithville presents options across East Texas and Northwest Louisiana with terrain varying from pine forests to cypress swamps. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. The region receives approximately 50 inches of rainfall annually, making waterproof gear essential for campers year-round.
What to do
Kayaking cypress bayous: Caddo Lake State Park Campground offers distinctive paddling routes through stands of centuries-old cypress trees. "The big attraction here is the lake, which looks like something straight out of a Louisiana swamp movie. Huge old cypress trees with Spanish moss hanging from the limbs," notes one visitor who recommends bringing "a compass & getting the lake map from one of the bait shops near the park."
Wildlife observation: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area features a small wildlife sanctuary alongside free-roaming peacocks. "There is a small wildlife sanctuary (zoo but no petting) and free roaming peacocks," shares a camper who spent time exploring the grounds. The park combines water activities with wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hiking accessible trails: Lake Bistineau State Park Campground maintains approximately 10 miles of trails for walking or biking. "I took an evening walk on the Discovery Trail and saw two deer. There are several other, longer trails," reports a tent camper who visited in April. Morning hikes are recommended during summer months when temperatures are cooler.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Campers consistently praise the site layout at Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area. "I loved the spaciousness of each site leaving a lot of room between you and your neighbors," writes one visitor, while another notes, "Plenty of room between sites and great views. She really enjoyed riding her bike around the campground."
Clean facilities: Barksdale AFB FamCamp maintains well-kept shower and laundry facilities. "This is a quiet location with nice facilities. Shower and laundry facilities are nice and well maintained," according to a regular visitor. Another camper adds, "The grounds are well kept. Never had any issues. Very safe."
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Keithville: Shreveport Bossier City KOA receives positive reviews for its pet amenities. "We were right by the dog park, which the dogs loved!" reports one camper who appreciated the convenient pet exercise areas. The park maintains two separate dog areas to accommodate different sized pets.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lake Bistineau experiences significant water level fluctuations. "Didn't realize they lowered the lake. My fault for not investigating more," notes a cabin guest who was still able to enjoy the park's trail system. Call ahead to confirm current conditions if planning water activities.
Noise considerations: When selecting a campsite at Caddo Lake, road proximity matters. "The site that we stayed at (#34) was too close to the main road and the noise from the cars was so loud, which led to an awful nights sleep," cautions a recent visitor who still rated the park's facilities as "clean and well kept."
Security features: Southern Living RV Park provides a gated environment for overnight stays. "Felt safe and secure," notes a camper who appreciated the park's attention to security despite staying in a relatively compact site. The park requires security code access after office hours.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly military option: Barksdale AFB FamCamp offers affordable tent camping with convenient amenities. "Tent spots are $4 a night, enclosed in a lightly wooded area, and only few yards away from both the bathroom and the playground. It was perfect for our needs," shares a military family who extended their stay because "the kids enjoyed it so much."
Cabin alternatives: Caddo Lake State Park provides cabin accommodations ideal for winter family camping. "We loved the cabin, it made winter camping with kids do-able! Loved hiking and exploring! A ton of CCC history and beautiful bald cypress here!" reports a parent who found the historic cabins comfortable for family stays.
Educational opportunities: Lake Bistineau State Park offers wildlife viewing chances along its trail system. "I took an evening walk on the Discovery Trail and saw two deer," notes a camper who found the trails accessible for casual walking. The park visitor center provides wildlife identification guides specifically designed for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Southern Living RV Park requires some adjustment for unlevel sites. "It took a little work to get level," mentions one RVer who otherwise found the park staff friendly and accommodating. Bringing additional leveling blocks is recommended for most sites in the region.
Extended stay considerations: Shreveport Bossier City KOA accommodates both short and longer-term stays. "Did an extended stay here, 3 months while working in the area. The staff is great and very helpful and friendly," reports one long-term guest who appreciated the park maintenance but noted variable utility costs during their stay.
Pull-through availability: TravelCenters of America RV Park offers convenient highway access for overnight stops. "We were in a pull through spot, which was level, but barely long enough for our truck and 30 ft camper," advises a camper who recommends bringing "extra long electric cord" to reach available hookups. The park's Good Sam discount brings the rate to approximately $34 per night for full hookups.
