Sam Houston Jones State Park provides cabin camping accommodations in Lake Charles, Louisiana, situated where the Calcasieu and Houston Rivers meet. The park sits at just 15 feet above sea level in Louisiana's coastal plain region, creating a unique low-elevation ecosystem where cypress trees and water features dominate the landscape. Cabin options range from basic units to renovated facilities with modern amenities, all within a surrounding environment that's home to diverse wildlife including alligators, snapping turtles, and numerous bird species.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Sam Houston Jones State Park, visitors can observe native Louisiana wildlife in their natural habitat. A camper reported, "If you like Louisiana Wildlife this is the place for you! I saw a couple of lounging alligators, egrets, snapping turtles, deer, and a chipmunk!!!"
Hiking and trails: The park features several accessible nature trails alongside rivers and through cypress swamps. One visitor noted, "The river walk from the campground is really nice," while another mentioned that "the trail beside the river was very nice and well-maintained." Trails are generally flat and suitable for most fitness levels.
Water activities: Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are popular at Intracoastal Parish Park, where water access points provide easy entry. A reviewer shared: "It was great to watch the tugs push barges all day... there is a covered fish station to clean your catch right on the pier and a boat launch."
What campers like
Renovated facilities: The recent improvements at Sam Houston Jones State Park have enhanced the camping experience. According to a visitor, "They did a fantastic job putting in the new Campground with full hook ups and extra large sites! Bath house is close by... nice wide hiking/biking trails, lots of water access, beautiful new bridges and a nice big playground."
Family-friendly amenities: Little Lake Charles Resort offers recreational options for families with children. One camper mentioned, "Lots to do with pool, water slide, water play area mini golf and fishing," making it an attractive option for families seeking cabin accommodations with entertainment options.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable cabin stays. At Vinton RV Park, a reviewer highlighted the value: "Only $375/mo for Long Term, All Utilities Included, Free Wi-Fi and Free Laundry!" Short-term visitors appreciate the practical amenities: "There's even a gate at the entrance, which adds an extra layer of peace of mind."
What you should know
Campground conditions vary seasonally: Louisiana's humid climate affects cabin camping experiences. One visitor to Sam Houston Jones noted, "When it rained, the water pooled on the backside and where the picnic table was." Spring and fall typically offer more pleasant conditions.
Facility quality differences: Maintenance standards differ between locations. While some cabins are well-maintained, others may need improvements. A camper at Jean LaFitte RV Park observed, "After the excessive affluence of southern California, this bare-bones RV park felt a little frightening... However, the gas station is convenient, there is a nice little store with personal use restrooms, and a there's a well-kept coin laundry."
Advance planning recommended: Popular cabin locations book quickly, especially during weekends and holidays. Reservations should be made at least 2-3 weeks in advance for peak times, with some parks requiring minimum stays. Weekday visits typically offer better availability and lower rates.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: When camping with children at Sam Houston Jones State Park, be aware of wildlife. One visitor cautioned, "I was kind of scared when I saw a sign on the trails warning of the gators!" Supervise children near water features and review wildlife safety guidelines before arrival.
Entertainment options: Lake Charles RV Resort provides family-friendly activities within a short drive. A camper mentioned, "There is a rum distillery almost next door that is a fun free thing to do, otherwise you're looking at a 15-20 minute drive to other activities in the area."
Kid-friendly locations: Some campgrounds are better suited for families with young children. At Vinton RV Park, a visitor noted: "Our boys had a blast riding their bikes around the park. It's a big property, and we felt totally comfortable letting them run around since it's well off the main road."
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: Choose your cabin or RV site carefully based on your specific needs. A visitor to Sam Houston Jones State Park recommended, "We were in spot #53 and I would highly recommend that spot. We only had one neighbor to one side, and it felt a bit more isolated than the others."
Connectivity considerations: Most cabins near Lake Charles offer reasonable internet access. A camper at Lake Charles RV Resort noted, "Solid Wi-Fi, great phone reception for AT&T, spacious sites, and quiet park." This makes the area suitable for remote workers needing to stay connected while enjoying cabin accommodations.
