Kisatchie National Forest spans over 604,000 acres across central and northern Louisiana with five ranger districts. Campsites in the region sit under mature pine forests with elevation changes of 80 to 300 feet above sea level. Fall camping temperatures typically range from 45°F to 75°F, making it an ideal season for outdoor activities with pets.
What to do
Kayaking on Valentine Lake: The 46-acre lake doesn't allow motorized boats, creating a peaceful paddling environment. At Valentine Lake Northshore Campground, "We found massive wasps nests and turtle shells on the forest floor, saw a gator while canoeing, and even saw an eagle! (My first one 😁)" notes camper Van N.
Hike the Wild Azalea Trail: This 18-mile trail through pine forests connects several camping areas. "I hiked about 7.5 miles in from the Valentine Lake trailhead to a large clearing by the bridge with a nice cool stream. There are other clearings nearby which would be great for a small group camp," shares Sean S. about Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail.
Biking the forest trails: The multi-use trails accommodate mountain bikes. "Great trail. Very well marked and maintained. Some wet areas but not bad. Awesome primitive camping sites along trail," writes Kassy Z. about the Evangeline Camp Complex.
What campers like
Secluded primitive sites: The primitive camping areas provide solitude and waterfront locations. "The cleanliness of the primitive camp sites is unsurpassed. Beautiful views of the lake can be seen from almost all primitive sites," says Kayla H. about Indian Creek Recreation Area.
Lakeside views: Many campsites offer direct lake access. "We were right by the fishing pier which was perfect for us. Groundskeeper came around a couple times to empty trash and clean bathrooms. Overall it's peaceful and quiet. Motorized boats not allowed on lake," shares Tanya R.
Space between sites: "Sites have decent buffer between them. Nestled amongst the pine trees, you really feel like you're in the forest," reports Fabein D. about the Loran Site Complex.
What you should know
No hookups at some campgrounds: "The Wild Azalea Trail is south west of Alexandria, Louisiana on the edge of the Valentine Lake Recreation Area. There is a trail head with parking on the grass, nicely mowed but if it has rained it could be muddy. Primitive camping is permitted adjacent to the trail but campsites must be at least 30 feet from the trail center line," explains N I.
Seasonal closures: Check status before visiting. "The forest received serious impact from Hurricanes Laura and Delta in the fall of 2020. The campground has been closed since. I spoke to forest service personnel on site, in August of 2021. I inquired about the reopening of the campground and was told that they were projecting it to reopen in 2025," reports Dion B. about Kincaid Lake.
Wildlife awareness: "Watch for the alligators if you're near the water! They are not shy and I do not recommend feeding them unless you want them coming to visit you," warns Taylor C. about Valentine Lake Northshore.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple beach areas: Families appreciate the swimming options. "I would like to start by saying this is a campground that is designed for young families, from the multiple sandy beach areas to the playgrounds, there was lot for my elementary age children to do," explains Sarah L.
Weekend crowds: "Because this campground is geared toward young families, there were a lot of kids running around unsupervised. There was a group of boys tearing the roof off the play house in one of the play grounds, another group jumping off the fishing pier while people were fishing," notes Sarah L. Consider weekday visits for a quieter experience.
Playgrounds and water activities: South Campground at Chicot State Park offers "Very clean well maintained camp sites and cabins. Fishing, canoeing and hiking trails are available as well as splash pad for the kids," according to TIMOTHY O.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: "We have a 21' travel trailer and barely fit it and our Toyota Tundra in site 52. The lake was visible when standing inside the camper (driver side) but not from our chairs by the fire," shares Layla D. about Indian Creek.
Unlevel sites: "We stayed in site 109, which is a full hook up site. Slightly unlevel, needed blocks on the right side," notes Cat R. about Indian Creek Recreation Area Best Camping Spot.
Limited water access: "Water & water at sites, but no sewer. Full hook up sites are being built. Senior discount got 10% off. Only stayed one night for about $26.00," reports Gary P. about available RV accommodations in the pet-friendly camping areas near Kisatchie National Forest.
