Chemin-A-Haut State Park rests in the flatlands of northern Louisiana, approximately 25 miles north of Monroe near the town of Bastrop. The park encompasses over 500 acres of mixed pine and hardwood forest with elevations ranging from 80 to 130 feet above sea level. Camping sites remain accessible year-round with distinct seasonal variations in water levels that can affect access to certain areas and activities.
What to do
Kayak to ancient cypress trees: Chemin-A-Haut Creek features ancient cypress trees estimated to be over 1,000 years old. "Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle to them," suggests Nicki M., though water levels can affect accessibility as "water has been high for a few months so its ugly and not so useable," according to Pam G.
Explore hiking trails: Lake D'Arbonne State Park offers varied terrain for hiking. "Nice hilly trails for hiking," notes Zack M., while Alayna J. adds that "the park is beautiful, especially right now with the changing colors of the trees."
Tennis and disc golf: Multiple sporting options exist beyond water activities. Jimmie Davis State Park provides "clean beaches, very well cared for grounds and quiet as a mouse," according to West D., while Lake D'Arbonne features "tennis courts, disc golf course, hiking/biking trails."
What campers like
Secluded camping experience: Many campsites offer privacy and seclusion from neighboring sites. Timothy H. describes Lake D'Arbonne as "secluded in the North Louisiana Farms, on Lake D'arbonne, with large forest trails. Immense campground with back to forest or lake front and all have RV hookup."
Updated facilities: Chemin-A-Haut State Park has undergone renovations to improve visitor experience. "Very nice renovated facilities! This is a hidden gem north of Bastrop, Louisiana," writes Nicki M., while Heath H. mentions "nice RV spots with full hookups" and "a nice, new, and clean restroom and shower facility with coin-operated laundry."
Family-friendly amenities: The parks cater to families with various amenities. At Jimmie Davis State Park, Sherrie N. reports "beautiful lake with splash pad and park for the kids to play nice beach area," and Katina T. adds that the park "has a nice splash pad and beach for kids. Also a couple parks and many hammocks."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Seasonal changes affect water levels and accessibility. Taylor C. recommends: "Plan on calling ahead if you're going to do that since the water can also be too low."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife may approach campers due to previous interactions. "Raccoons are very curious and obviously human fed because they will walk right up to you," warns Nicki M.
Wi-Fi limitations: Lake D'Arbonne State Park offers wireless internet, but signal strength varies by location. Cheri H. confirms the park has "WiFi," while John R. notes at Jimmie Davis that "Wifi worked well in c14."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: During summer months, pools provide safe swimming alternatives to lakes. "Really nice like a resort. Tennis courts, swimming pool (closed for winter), horse shoe pit, laundry mat, disc golf, and awesome clean bathrooms," reports Steve S. about Lake D'Arbonne.
Kid-friendly trails: Chemin-A-Haut State Park offers trails suitable for children. Taylor C. mentions the park "had two playgrounds and kids trail," making it ideal for families with young children.
Consider premium sites: Premium lakefront sites offer better views and convenience. Bruce F. describes Lake D'Arbonne: "4 lake front premium spots. We were lucky enough to have one. Piers are super nice."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra effort for proper RV leveling. Gary G. cautions about Chemin-A-Haut: "Just have to be careful what sight you book, because I almost never got my camper level in sight #21."
Full hookup availability: Jimmie Davis provides power and water but lacks sewer connections at individual sites. Katina T. notes: "Only down side, no sewage hookup, only a dump station. Not a big deal for a weekend visit, but may be an inconvenience if it were a longer stay."
Spacious concrete pads: Jimmie Davis State Park offers well-constructed RV pads. "Large concrete pads with fire pit and table," reports John R., making setup more convenient for larger vehicles.
