Tent camping near Minden, Louisiana centers around several basic sites located within a 30-mile radius of town. The region sits in the northwest corner of Louisiana where pine forests dominate the landscape, with average summer temperatures reaching 93°F from June through August. Fall camping offers more comfortable temperatures in the 70s with lower humidity levels, though spring campers should prepare for potential thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Earl Williamson Park provides access to Caddo Lake where campers can fish from several piers. One visitor described it as a "beautiful fishing park" with excellent waterfront sites offering "an amazing sunset view of Caddo Lake."
Disc golf course: The 18-hole disc golf course at Earl Williamson Park attracts enthusiasts year-round. A camper noted, "We got to play disc golf at their very nice public (free) 18 hole course. I've been carrying around the discs for years and never got to play. Now I'm hooked!"
Swimming: During summer months, the swim beach at Earl Williamson Park offers relief from the heat. A camper mentioned that the park "has a day use area that includes playgrounds, disc golf, fishing piers, and a swim beach that we made good use of."
Hunting opportunities: Ivan Lake serves as a base camp for hunters during season. A reviewer shared their experience: "We camp here while hunting..love this camp site no worries or problems, all nice red blooded Americans loving Gods outdoor country."
What campers like
Affordability: Most tent camping sites around Minden maintain low fees compared to other regions. At Earl Williamson Park, a camper reported, "Only $12 a night cash only, 2 week max" and another mentioned it was "inexpensive camping sites."
Privacy and solitude: Wenks Landing Recreation Area offers secluded spots, particularly at site 1. A visitor noted, "It is set off from the others and has a large flat grassy area. If it is busy it may be less desirable as it is right on the parking lot, but I'd still take it."
Lakefront views: Sunset views over the water rank highly among camper experiences. One visitor at Teague Lake Primitive described their experience as "Most excellent for the day and I have a lot of people to tell."
Basic amenities: Despite primitive conditions, campers appreciate the essential facilities at some sites. A visitor noted, "Flush toilets, running water, and a spigot to fill up are provided" at Wenks Landing Recreation Area.
What you should know
Cash payment required: Earl Williamson Park operates on cash-only basis with no reservations accepted. A camper advised, "Cash only and no reservations but can call camp host to see if a spot is open."
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites lack drinking water, requiring campers to bring their own supply. Some campsites like Highway 157 Primitive and Sugar Creek Hunt Camp have no toilets or trash service.
Bathroom conditions vary: While most campgrounds offer basic restroom facilities, quality differs. One camper at Earl Williamson Park stated, "The bath house was very clean but dated. The showers were clean," while another mentioned "Bathrooms are not ideal."
Site selection matters: At Wenks Landing Recreation Area, a camper advised, "If you want to tent camp or sleep in your car, only book sites 1-5. The others don't seem to have flat spots for much of anything."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Earl Williamson Park includes playground equipment suitable for younger children. A visitor mentioned the park has a "playground for small children."
Safety considerations: The security presence at Earl Williamson Park provides peace of mind for families. A camper noted, "The local sheriff's office sits at the entrance so we felt very safe there too."
Activities beyond camping: Families can enjoy multiple recreational options at some sites. A visitor at Earl Williamson Park listed options including "swimming, boat launch, disc golf, corn hole and much more."
Primitive area warning: The designated primitive camping sections may not suit all families. A camper observed, "We paid for full hookups since the primitive area was overgrown and VERY primitive."
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Earl Williamson Park provides a sanitary dump station for RVs. A visitor reported, "There was a dump station that was easy to get to and maintained."
Hookup limitations: No full hookup sites exist in the immediate Minden area. A camper noted Earl Williamson Park offers "water and 50 amp service" but not full connections.
Level sites available: Some campgrounds offer naturally level parking areas suitable for RVs. A visitor at Earl Williamson Park mentioned, "We were able to just pull in and find a lovely, level, shady spot."
Water access varies: Not all sites with electrical hookups have convenient water connections. One camper reported, "We had electricity and a covered pavilion, but no water spigot at our site. Other sites had water but some were set up for RV connections not for filling up jugs."
