Camping near Kisatchie National Forest provides varied terrain from rolling hills to pine forests across central Louisiana's 604,000 acres. The forest spans seven parishes with elevation changes creating diverse camping microclimates throughout the seasons. Spring brings wildflowers while fall offers cooler temperatures ideal for extended outdoor activities at RV sites near Kisatchie National Forest.
What to do
Water activities on Cotile Lake: Hidden Treasure RV Resort sits on Cotile Lake, offering opportunities for boating and fishing. "There is a small boat launch/fishing area. A couple of the guests are long term, but it is very quiet here," reports one camper at this Boyce location.
Cultural exploration: Paragon Casino Resort provides unique cultural experiences beyond gambling. "There's also a boardwalk that connects the casino, campground and Tunica Indian museum and powwow ceremonial grounds and is also great for walking for exercise," notes a visitor who appreciated the cultural aspects.
River fishing: Colfax Recreation Area campground provides Red River access with dedicated facilities. "This is a quiet park right on the Red River. Sunsets are amazing over the river... All spots are full hookup and 50 amp service," mentions a camper who enjoyed the riverside experience.
Kids' water activities: Gator Grounds RV Resort features both indoor and outdoor water activities. "Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park. Fall has been great because of the nice fire pits and we are now a huge fan of their Halloween celebration," writes one family who visits regularly.
What campers like
Family-friendly events: Lakeview Park hosts seasonal celebrations that draw repeat visitors. "We've not been during the summer, but we loved our kids' Mardi Gras weekend here. Lots of cultural fun and activities for kids and family," reports one camper who enjoyed the cultural programming.
Clean facilities: Gator Grounds RV Resort maintains their facilities well. "It was quiet, roomy, and spotlessly clean! Park attendant even came by and checked on us... The indoor pools and splash pads were open and heated. The showers, extremely clean," notes a winter visitor.
Outdoor recreation options: Paragon Casino Resort offers activities beyond the casino. "There is a walking trail, golf course and of course, if you gamble the casino. If it rains there's also a movie theater," explains a visitor who initially hesitated about camping at a casino property.
Natural settings: Many RV sites near Kisatchie National Forest offer nature-based experiences. "Close to home so we visit often... We like to let the kids kayak in the oxbow at the landing. Nice place to go for a short weekend trip to get out the house and on the water!" shares a regular visitor to Colfax Recreation Area.
What you should know
Site leveling requirements: Hidden Treasure RV Resort has terrain variations. "Not all sites are level, but that may change with their improvements," notes one camper. Another mentions, "Site #17 overlooks the lake... No matter what site you are in, you will need to level your RV."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires attention. "The road to the resort was pretty bad... The Rv sites of the resort are fairly close together but the staff was wonderful and helpful," explains a visitor to Pontchartrain Landing RV Resort.
Varied amenities: Campgrounds offer different levels of services. "There is a small pool and restaurant/bar. There is also a really nice gift shop. You could also kayak or dock a boat at the marina here," explains a visitor to Pontchartrain Landing.
Seasonal considerations: Activity schedules change throughout the year. "Stayed here in late March and the place was only about 25-30% full. We had ample privacy," notes a spring visitor to Paragon Casino Resort who appreciated the quieter off-season experience.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Gator Grounds RV Resort offers entertainment for children. "Great campground! It was a very cold weekend but indoor water fun was awesome, kept the kids occupied. It was mardi gras weekend so parade was unbelievable!!!" shares a winter visitor who found activities despite cold weather.
Playground options: Lakeview Park includes facilities for children. "Had such a great and relaxing time! Rented the kayak for an hour multi times. Water is cold and refreshing," mentions a visitor who enjoyed the variety of recreation options with their family.
Space considerations: Site selection affects family camping experience. "We stayed here Friday through Sunday in site 110. Not a perfect site due to no shade. The site was gravel and grass, pretty level," explains a visitor to Lakeview Park who noted proximity to nearby sites.
Cultural activities: Seasonal events provide family entertainment. "The camping spots really go all out in decorating for the kids. There was a costume contest and then a time for kids to visit all spots for candy," shares a Halloween visitor to Gator Grounds RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Leveling preparation: Pack leveling equipment for many campgrounds. "Slightly hilly with beautiful mature trees, some which have several bird feeders attached! Wildlife galore. Site 19 was quite unlevel, but nothing a few leveling blocks couldn't handle," notes a Hidden Treasure RV Resort visitor.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "I highly recommend staying in the 70's spots. Shade, flat level areas, with fire rings and tables," suggests a visitor to Gator Grounds who found these sites particularly comfortable.
Hookup positioning: Pay attention to utility locations. "Be sure to bring extra sewer hose, the sewer is a far reach!" warns a Lakeview Park visitor who discovered this challenge at their site.
Transportation considerations: Plan for travel into nearby towns. "We don't have a tow car, so getting downtown was a little bit of a hassle. We took the city bus, which was fine, and cheap (something like $1.25) but the bus stop was a mile away and the ride downtown took about an hour," explains a Pontchartrain Landing RV Resort visitor who needed to reach New Orleans.
