Kisatchie National Forest dominates the camping landscape near Elmer, Louisiana, with its characteristic pine and hardwood forests spanning over 600,000 acres. Elevations range from 80 to 400 feet above sea level throughout the forest, creating varied terrain for hiking and camping opportunities. Winter temperatures typically range from 35°F to 60°F, making off-season camping comfortable compared to summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Fishing from designated piers: At Valentine Lake Northshore Campground, motorized boats aren't permitted, creating a peaceful fishing environment. One camper noted, "We were right by the fishing pier which was perfect for us. Groundskeeper came around a couple times to empty trash and clean bathrooms."
Hiking the Wild Azalea Trail: This 26-mile trail offers multiple primitive camping options. A hiker shared, "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."
Kayaking on calm waters: Indian Creek Recreation Area offers lake access perfect for paddling. A camper mentioned, "We were able to launch our kayaks from our RV site," making it convenient for water enthusiasts to access the lake directly.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Loran Site Complex provides access to multiuse trails. A visitor explained, "This site is PERFECT for hiking or biking the multiuse trails. Inside the Kisatchie National Forest, Evangeline District."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between sites. At Loran Site Complex, campers appreciate that "Sites have decent buffer between them. Nestled amongst the pine trees, you really feel like you're in the forest."
Clean facilities: Valentine Lake Northshore Campground maintains its facilities regularly. One reviewer observed, "Groundskeeper came around a couple times to empty trash and clean bathrooms. Overall it's peaceful and quiet."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forests and lakes provide habitat for various wildlife. At Valentine Lake, one camper cautioned, "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."
Seasonal wildflowers: The Wild Azalea Trail lives up to its name during blooming seasons. A camper observed, "Azaleas blooming on the Wild Azalea trail. Louisiana yellow iris blooming around the entire lake."
What you should know
Payment systems vary: Valentine Lake Northshore operates on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper noted, "Says it's $10/night but we couldn't find a drop box. Had lake front access and could walk to trails."
Limited tent pad options: At Valentine Lake, be prepared for hard surfaces. One camper advised, "The only complaint I have with this campground is that you can not put your tent on the grass. Make sure you have padding."
Trail conditions can change: The Wild Azalea Trail requires preparation. A hiker warned, "Be prepared for plenty of ups and downs and some rough terrain. There are adequate running streams to get water for filtering."
No-hookup camping: Ahtus Melder Camp provides primitive options. A camper described, "This campground is free and will accommodate RVs, tents, and trailers. No facilities, totally primitive."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with beaches: Kincaid Lake Recreation Area offers water access. A visitor shared, "You will be walking distance from the lake, showers, and flush toilets."
Consider Indian Creek for amenities: This recreation area caters to families. A camper noted, "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."
Monitor campground activity levels: Family campgrounds can get busy. One Indian Creek camper observed, "Because this campground is geared toward young families, there were a lot of kids running around unsupervised."
Check for playground access: Some campgrounds have dedicated play areas. A visitor to Kincaid Lake mentioned, "Fishing, hiking, biking (road and off road trails), swimming (beach), playground (loop B), boating, secluded."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: At Indian Creek Recreation Area, not all sites accommodate larger rigs. One RVer explained, "We have a 21' travel trailer and barely fit it and our Toyota Tundra in site 52."
Look for sites with views: Some campgrounds offer premium lakeside locations. An experienced camper recommended, "Other sites that we found appealing were 13, 16, 45, 57, 95, 99, and 100. We really prefer a nice view, separation from neighboring sites."
Be prepared for unlevel sites: Some pads may require adjustments. A camper at Indian Creek noted, "We stayed in site 109, which is a full hook up site. Slightly unlevel, needed blocks on the right side."
Check pad conditions: Many older campgrounds have aging infrastructure. At Valentine Lake, a visitor observed, "Hard pavement pads but they are narrow and crumbling on the edges."
