Indian Creek Recreation Area sits nestled in central Louisiana, about 15 miles southeast of Alexandria near Lecompte. The area features tall pine forests typical of the Kisatchie National Forest region with hot, humid summers where temperatures often exceed 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. The recreation area surrounds a 2,500-acre man-made lake that serves as the focal point for many camping activities in the region.
What to Do
Fishing from shore or pier: At Indian Creek Recreation Area, visitors can fish directly from their sites along the lake. "We were able to launch our kayaks from our RV site," notes Cat R., who appreciated the easy water access.
Hiking forested trails: Valentine Lake Northshore Campground offers access to the 26-mile Wild Azalea Trail. "We stayed here after finishing a backpacking trip down wild azalea trail. Bathrooms were meh but it was very quiet with hardly any people," reports Taylor C., highlighting the connection to longer trails.
Kayaking calm waters: Valentine Lake Northshore Campground prohibits motorized boats, creating a peaceful paddling environment. "Motorized boats not allowed on lake. Get there early because we saw only 12 sites to occupy," advises Tanya R., emphasizing the serenity of the lake.
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "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 😁)," shares Van N., describing the natural discoveries at Valentine Lake.
What Campers Like
Well-maintained sites: South Campground at Chicot State Park receives consistent praise for upkeep. "Very clean and well maintained park. Very friendly park employees," states Rebecca Z., highlighting the park management.
Lake views from camping spots: Many campsites offer direct views of the water. "Site 56 had a HUGE backyard leading down to the lake. The view from our chairs by the fire and the picnic table were excellent," shares Layla D., describing her experience at Indian Creek.
Accessible outdoor recreation: Multiple activities remain available within walking distance. "Hiking trails through Alexander State Forest offer excellent opportunities for dog walking," says Woby D., who found Chicot State Park especially appealing: "Great facilities, Great fishing, Great hiking, Great Arboretum!"
Peaceful primitive options: For those seeking more solitude, Loran Site Complex provides a more remote experience. "The sites are well shaded, even, spacious, and far enough away from your neighbors that you have the sense of privacy," explains Paula W., noting the spacious setting.
What You Should Know
Site reservations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "We counted ourselves lucky with the sites we had reserved," mentions Layla D. about securing spots at Indian Creek during busy times.
Facilities vary widely: Campgrounds range from primitive to full-service. "This is where we go car camping in their primitive section... The campsites are basic tenting areas with no improvements such as fire rings, tables, trash barrels, tent platforms, etc," Jeff S. clarifies about Indian Creek's primitive areas.
Wildlife precautions: Alligators inhabit area waterways. "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.
Weather considerations: Louisiana's climate affects camping comfort seasonally. "If it has rained it could be very muddy," notes N.I. about Ahtus Melder Camp, highlighting the need for weather awareness.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for dedicated family areas: Gator Grounds RV Resort caters specifically to families with children. "This has become our favorite affordable getaway for RV camping. Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park," shares Josh B., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Consider weekday stays: Weekend crowds can change the camping experience. "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," writes Sarah L., though she adds, "We will likely try camping here again, but perhaps during the week while schools are in session to avoid the crowds."
Seek out playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "There was a costume contest and then a time for kids to visit all spots for candy," explains Josh B. about Halloween at Gator Grounds, showing the organized activities for children.
Check for pet-friendly policies: Most area campgrounds accommodate pets. "Me, my wife and lil dog stayed a weekend on the primitive area in a tent. When looking for a spot to put our tent, we found several peak areas that were very nice," shares Rocky F. about his pet-friendly camping experience at Indian Creek.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Some RV sites have specific size limitations. "We have a 21' travel trailer and barely fit it and our Toyota Tundra in site 52," cautions Layla D. about Indian Creek's varying site sizes.
Consider hookup needs: North Campground at Chicot State Park offers different levels of service. "Site 109, which is a full hook up site. Slightly unlevel, needed blocks on the right side," notes Cat R., providing practical information about leveling needs.
Plan for dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with water/electric have sewer connections. "No sewer hookup, but has 2 dump stations," points out Cat R. about facilities at Indian Creek.
Scout for level sites: Terrain varies across campgrounds. "Hard pavement pads but they are narrow and crumbling on the edges," warns N.I. about Valentine Lake Northshore, indicating potential leveling challenges.
