Camping near Kisatchie National Forest

Kisatchie National Forest has multiple good campgrounds scattered throughout its wooded areas. Valentine Lake Northshore Campground sits by the water and connects to several hiking paths. Many campers also head to Chicot State Park, where you can fish, paddle kayaks, or watch for local birds. If you need more modern facilities, Gator Grounds RV Resort has full hookups and places for recreation. Check ahead about closures - Dion B campground isn't open right now. Remember you're in alligator country when camping here, so store food properly to avoid unwanted visitors. Before lighting any fires, look up current fire rules as they change seasonally. While many sites work on first-come, first-served, you should book ahead for busy places like Chicot State Park. The forest contains many different types of natural environments, so you'll see lots of different plants and animals. Some campsites have more trees for privacy than others. Pack for both warm days and cooler nights since the temperature drops significantly after sunset. Kisatchie works well for both quiet campers and those wanting more active trips.

Best Camping Sites Near Kisatchie National Forest (83)

    1. Indian Creek Recreation Area

    25 Reviews
    Woodworth, LA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (318) 487-5058

    $16 / night

    "It was a very quiet spot tucked away on the far side of the campground. It was right off the water and had a beautiful view of the sunrise and all the birds."

    "Beautiful views of the lake can be seen from almost all primitive sites. We were visited by raccoons one night, but they were easily & quickly scared away."

    2. Indian Creek Recreation Area Best Camping Spot

    8 Reviews
    Woodworth, LA
    9 miles

    $30 / night

    "We lucked into the primo spot on the lake point and super level. Highly recommend this park, but undestand that it fills up fast, especially on the weekend."

    "Trails, lake, boating, fishing, biking, great shade. Can get crowded on weekends and lots of golf cart traffic. Stores nearby and Alexandria not far. One of our favorites."

    3. Valentine Lake Northshore Campground

    9 Reviews
    Gardner, LA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (318) 793-9427

    $10 / night

    "Inside the Kisatchie National Forest, Evangeline District lies this peaceful little oasis. Water, flush toilets, seclusion, lake, and fishing. This was an amazing spot to stay for a few nights."

    "Well maintained grounds with flush toilet (no shower) drinking water tap near but not at the camp sites, fire ring and picnic tables at each site. Small (about 16 sites) and quiet."

    4. Loran Site Complex

    2 Reviews
    Forest Hill, LA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (318) 793-9427

    "This site is PERFECT for hiking or biking the multiuse trails. Inside the Kisatchie National Forest, Evangeline District."

    5. Ahtus Melder Camp

    2 Reviews
    Forest Hill, LA
    2 miles

    "FREE 

    FCFS 

    Clairborne Trail $5.00 access fee 

    This campground is free and will accommodate RV's, tents, and trailers. No facilities, totally primitive."

    6. Kisatchie National Forest Loran/Claiborne Trailhead Camp

    2 Reviews
    Forest Hill, LA
    3 miles

    "There are 4 multiuse trails that lead out of this area. There are vault toilets and trash recepticles but NO WATER! Huge parking area and also shaded grills and picnic tables."

    7. Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail

    4 Reviews
    Gardner, LA
    13 miles
    Website

    "There is both primitive and fixed campsites.you have a couple Small trails in and around Valentine lake, or you caan hop on wild azeala trail and hike it. Its just short of 18 miles start to finish."

    "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."

    8. Kincaid Lake Campground - Temporarily Closed

    3 Reviews
    Gardner, LA
    14 miles
    Website

    "It has a lakeside beach, hiking/mountain biking trail and also connects with the Azalea Trail (popular with backpackers). It has a boat launch area with vault toilets."

    "Fishing, hiking, biking (road and off road trails), swimming (beach), playground (loop B), boating, secluded.

    I took 2 of my boys (8,6), sister, and her boy (10)."

    9. Evangeline Camp Complex

    2 Reviews
    Gardner, LA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (318) 473-7160

    "Great trail. Very well marked and maintained. Some wet areas but not bad. Awesome primitive camping sites along trail."

    10. South Campground — Chicot State Park

    25 Reviews
    Ville Platte, LA
    27 miles
    Website

    "One of my favorite places to go camping, trails bring you right through the swamps of South louisiana. Love walking elevated on the path right over the mush and cypress knees galore!"

    "It's a welcoming place to experience Louisiana outdoors."

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Recent Reviews near Kisatchie National Forest

220 Reviews of 83 Kisatchie National Forest Campgrounds


  • steve L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Saddle Bayou Camp Complex

    Nice little place,20ft rv travel trailer

    Nice toilet,his and hers. Only one spot for that .

  • Sarah L.
    Jul. 28, 2025

    Indian Creek Recreation Area

    A close to home family friendly campground

    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. The bathhouses were cleaned every morning and I didn't see much trash lying around, other than our fire pit, but I assumed the previous tenants must have dumped some of their trash in the pit when leaving. Some of the issues I had are, 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, little kids driving golf carts around without adults on them (one time almost hitting a lady on a scooter), there were several dogs running around not on leashes, and even adult driving vehicles through the grassy play area rather than the roadway. The rules seem to no be enforced, including the no noise times of 10pm-7am. There were golf carts riding around with loud music until 1:30 am both nights. I never saw a single park attendant, other than the gate operator. We will likely try camping here again, but perhaps during the week while schools are in session to avoid the crowds.

  • I
    May. 7, 2025

    Bundick Lake Retreat and RV Park

    Sad

    The park definitely has potential, beautifully situated, green and shady. The description on the homepage no longer corresponds to reality. The pool is dirty, mini golf unusable, playground dangerous. Toilets are dirty. There is no staff to take care of them. Really sad

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 5, 2025

    Indian Creek Recreation Area Best Camping Spot

    Indian Creek Recreation Area

    Great campground. Trails, lake, boating, fishing, biking, great shade. Can get crowded on weekends and lots of golf cart traffic. Stores nearby and Alexandria not far. One of our favorites.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 5, 2025

    South Campground — Chicot State Park

    South landing

    Camped here frequently as a child. Now enjoying it as an adult. Large state park and always have a site available, even with short notice. Lots of things to do. Great park.

  • Taylor C.
    Apr. 3, 2025

    Valentine Lake Northshore Campground

    Perfect spot for a getaway

    Super quiet (minus gunshots during hunting season). First come first serve. Says it’s $10/night but we couldn’t find a drop box. Had lake front access and could walk to trails. Stayed here after finishing a backpacking trip down wild azalea trail. Bathrooms were meh but it was very quiet with hardly any people. 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.

  • Michelle L.
    Jan. 31, 2025

    North Campground — Chicot State Park

    State Park camping family

    Our family has spent many years at many different state parks across the country, and this is by far one of my favorites!!

  • Betsy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 13, 2024

    Dogwood Camp

    Ok campground but free

    Wooded and close to road with traffic all night. Bathroom with flush toilet and cold water hand sink but not supplied and not swept. Water faucets and trash receptacle available. Verizon 2 bars and no problem. I would not make a special trip but if going by would stay again. It’s free however!!


Guide to Kisatchie National Forest

Camping near Kisatchie National Forest, Louisiana, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails in the area, especially around Chicot State Park. One camper mentioned, “One of the best and longest loop trails in the state!” This park is perfect for those who love to hike and enjoy nature.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, head to Valentine Lake Northshore Campground. A reviewer said, “We were right by the fishing pier which was perfect for us.” It’s a great spot to relax and catch some fish.
  • Bird Watching: For bird enthusiasts, South Campground — Chicot State Park is a must-visit. One visitor noted, “Great bird watching,” making it a fantastic place to enjoy the local wildlife.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. At Indian Creek Recreation Area, a reviewer stated, “Overall the campground was clean, quiet, and made for a great weekend getaway.” Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus for many.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. A visitor at South Campground — Chicot State Park mentioned, “It was very quiet even when full.” This makes it a great spot for relaxation.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers love the spaciousness of the sites at Valentine Lake Northshore Campground. One review highlighted, “Large, well spaced sites,” which is perfect for families or groups.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Valentine Lake Northshore Campground, have limited amenities. A camper noted, “No electric hookups,” so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Mosquitoes: Be ready for mosquitoes, especially in the evenings. A visitor at South Campground — Chicot State Park mentioned, “At dusk the mosquitoes came out,” so bring repellent.
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy, particularly on weekends. A camper at Valentine Lake Northshore Campground said, “Surprisingly crowded on a nice weekend in February!” Plan your visit accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Gator Grounds RV Resort is a great option. One family shared, “Indoor water fun was awesome, kept the kids occupied.” It’s perfect for families looking for activities.
  • Look for Play Areas: Many campgrounds have playgrounds or recreational areas. At Paragon Casino Resort, families can enjoy the amenities while having fun together.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Cotile Recreation Area mentioned, “The grounds were clean and relatively kept up,” which is great for family outings.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: RVers should confirm the availability of electric and water hookups. A visitor at Indian Creek Recreation Area noted, “Water was on the wrong side of the camp spot,” so plan accordingly.
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some RV sites can be tight. A camper at Gator Grounds RV Resort mentioned, “Most of the sites are not shady,” so consider the layout when booking.
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: RVers can take advantage of nearby attractions. A reviewer at Pontchartrain Landing RV Resort said, “We enjoyed visiting Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve,” making it a great base for exploration.

Camping near Kisatchie National Forest, Louisiana, offers a unique blend of nature and adventure. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can have a fantastic camping experience in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to camp in Kisatchie National Forest?

Most campgrounds in Kisatchie National Forest require a nominal fee rather than a formal permit. Corral Camp in the Kisatchie District has a $3 camping fee, plus an additional $5 fee if you plan to use the Sandstone Trail system. Some areas like Ahtus Melder Camp in the Evangeline District offer free primitive camping. For dispersed camping in the forest, it's best to check with the district ranger office for current regulations, as some areas may require free backcountry permits. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and respect any fire restrictions in place.

Where are the designated camping areas in Kisatchie National Forest?

Kisatchie National Forest offers several designated camping areas spread across multiple districts. In the Kisatchie District, you'll find Lotus Camp and Coyote Camp, both located along the Sandstone Trail system. The Evangeline District features Valentine Lake Northshore Campground and Loran Site Complex, which provides access to multi-use trails. In the Calcasieu District, there's Hunters Camp in the Vernon Unit. Many of these campgrounds offer different experiences from secluded forest settings to lakeside camping, with varying levels of accessibility and amenities.

What amenities are available at Kisatchie campgrounds?

Amenities vary widely across Kisatchie National Forest campgrounds. Dogwood Camp offers water access and is conveniently located next to the Ranger Station where you can find trail maps and forest information. Oak Camp Complex is more primitive with vault toilets but no water. Most developed sites provide picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern poles. For more comfort, Valentine Lake Northshore Campground features flush toilets, water access, and lakeside sites perfect for fishing. Many campgrounds are designed with specific users in mind—some cater to horse riders, others to off-road vehicle enthusiasts or hikers using the trail systems.