Beaver Dam Campground near Minden provides waterfront camping on Caney Lake with 29 spacious RV sites and water/electric hookups. Sites average $25 per night and feature concrete pads that accommodate large rigs. The Sugar Cane National Recreation Trail loops around the lake with multiple connected paths for hiking and biking. Campers should be aware that alligators inhabit the lake, with a ten-foot specimen recently removed from the waters.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Lake Claiborne State Park Campground offers two well-marked disc golf courses considered among the best in Louisiana. "The King of the Mountain Trail is my favorite because of its wooden bridge and tiny waterfall," notes Sarah B., who visits regularly during early spring.
Nature observation: The campgrounds around Minden provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Lake Bistineau State Park, Christopher D. explains, "The views of the 'swamp' are great. It's dry, and apparently has been for some years, so there's a lush grass growing down to the water's edge. Lots of wildlife to watch."
Kayaking and paddling: The lakes in this area are ideal for non-motorized watercraft. Daniel H. from Lake Bistineau remarks, "Got in some kayaking. Beautiful lake for paddling. Looking forward to going back." The calm waters and cypress tree settings create distinctive paddling routes throughout the region.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers consistently praise the generous spacing between sites near Minden. At Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area, Larry mentions, "Plenty of room between sites and great views. She really enjoyed riding her bike around the campground." This extra space provides privacy not always found at busier campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities. At Beaver Dam, Betsy W. notes, "Showers hot and cleaned daily. Trash removed every morning from receptacles." Similarly, at Cypress Black Bayou, Lea B. was pleasantly surprised: "The bathhouse was immaculately clean. I went in expecting a typical park shower room with spiders or bugs. There were NONE."
Lake views: Most sites offer scenic water views. Bob M. from Beaver Dam Campground comments, "The campsites are huge, many with water views, and spaced out well. Very quiet and starry at night." These waterfront locations create peaceful settings for morning coffee or evening relaxation.
What you should know
Fire pit limitations: At several campgrounds, fire pits may not function well. James B. explains at Beaver Dam, "The fire pits are the only problem as they are poorly designed and have no ventilation. Bring your own pit." This information helps campers prepare accordingly for evening campfires.
Limited sewer hookups: Tom Merrill Recreation Area provides 30 and 50 amp service with water at each site, but according to Daniel W., complete hookups can be limited: "Nice and quiet 20+ campground with 30 & 50 Amp service with water at each site." Lake Bistineau similarly has water and electric but limited full-hookup sites.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Lake Claiborne State Park, Brent C. reports, "Wi-Fi did not work anywhere in park (signal broadcasted fine just no connection to internet). AT&T is non-existent." Meanwhile, at Beaver Dam, Cat R. noted "Cell service good," making it suitable for those needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Claiborne State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities including a playground area. Sarah B. shares, "There's a nice little beach where the kids can play and a playground area as well. The pavement is well kept and great for kids to ride bikes or scooters."
Wildlife education: Families can explore the small zoo at Cypress Black Bayou. Lane M. explains, "There is much to do at this park. Trails, swimming, boating, fishing, small zoo and museum." This provides educational opportunities for children to learn about local animals and ecosystems.
Safety considerations: When camping with small children or pets near Minden's lakes, supervision is essential. Rich J. from Beaver Dam notes, "They pulled a ten foot alligator out of there so my morning swim was a little faster than usual." Understanding these natural hazards helps families prepare appropriately.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many RV sites require some leveling adjustment. Cat R. shares about Lake Claiborne: "Not level ground, but we managed with enough blocks to get it level. This was a back in site." At Cinnamon Creek RV Park, William M. notes, "all gravel. right off I-20. full hookups with average (spotty) internet. we did not unhook."
Overnight convenience: For RVers needing quick overnight stops, Cinnamon Creek offers easy access. Rebecca K. describes it as a "Simple, clean very simple overnight quick pull in, pull out. Close to the interstate." Kathy H. adds, "Check in was effortless. Small but easy to get in and out. Full hookups and cable."
Seasonal pricing opportunities: Winter travelers may find good deals at pet friendly camping options near Minden. At Lake Bistineau, Kat E. found, "Winter deals were great on my budget. Park personnel were awesome. Helped me with a dead truck battery and were just all around wonderful."
