Dispersed camping opportunities near Mora, Louisiana range from primitive sites to semi-developed campgrounds across the Kisatchie National Forest's 604,000 acres. The region features pine-dominated forests with sandstone outcroppings at elevations between 80-300 feet. Most campsites remain accessible year-round with temperatures averaging 50°F in winter and 90°F in summer, though humidity levels regularly exceed 80% during warmer months.
What to do
Creek exploration: Kisatchie Bayou Complex offers unique water features for wading and photography. The clear running streams create natural swimming areas during warmer months. As one visitor noted, "Wonderful camping, nice campsites, very well taken care of. Lived the days here."
Trail hiking: Coyote Camp provides access to extensive trail systems suitable for day hikes ranging from 2-10 miles. The trails connect various camping areas and feature moderate elevation changes. A camper mentioned, "This was particularly nice as I was the only person at the site when I visited. It is free for camping use, though there is a fee for things like ATV's."
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk offer prime viewing opportunities throughout the forest, with deer, bobcat, and various bird species commonly spotted. Spring migration (March-May) brings additional songbird species. One visitor to Forest Road 380 noted, "There is plenty to explore so plan on visiting here for more than just a night."
What campers like
Natural springs: Several campsites feature access to fresh water sources. At Forest Road 380, "There is a natural spring that runs on side of the road about a half mile from the campsite. It has been piped in for easy access."
Secluded sites: Oak Camp Complex offers camping areas set back from main roads, providing privacy from other campers. As one visitor described, "Beautiful pine and hardwoods with a lot of fairly flat area. Beautiful shade and the area can handle small RV's and trailers."
Creek-side camping: Sites along Kisatchie Bayou allow campers to set up within hearing distance of flowing water. "Wonderful camping, nice campsites, very well taken care of," noted one visitor to Kisatchie Bayou Complex.
Minimal light pollution: The forest's remote location creates excellent stargazing conditions on clear nights. Campers recommend sites away from the main roads for best viewing.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads become difficult or impassable after heavy rain. A camper at Valentine Lake Northshore Campground advised, "Get there early because we saw only 12 sites to occupy."
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures routinely exceed 90°F with high humidity from June through September. Winter camping (November-February) requires preparation for overnight lows that can drop below freezing.
Wildlife awareness: Alligators inhabit water bodies throughout the region. One Valentine Lake camper warned, "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."
Water availability: Most dispersed sites lack potable water. Forest Road 380 offers "a natural spring that is piped just as you enter FR380. Locals come here to fill water. It's very fresh and refreshing."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Valentine Lake Northshore Campground features designated swimming areas with gradually sloping shorelines suitable for children. "Great quiet camping. There are no utility hookups (dry camping only)," notes one camper.
Shorter hiking routes: Several 1-2 mile loop trails connect camping areas, offering manageable distances for younger hikers. A visitor to Kisatchie Bayou NF Campground shared, "This campground has plenty of tent spots to choose from. Whether you want to be close by other campers, or farther away, they have a spot for you."
Wildlife education: Morning hours provide best opportunities for birdwatching with children. Bring field guides specific to Louisiana wildlife to help with identification.
Safety considerations: Summer heat requires additional water supplies and shade planning for families with children. Temperatures can remain above 80°F well into evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Not all forest roads accommodate larger rigs. Coyote Camp offers more accessible options as one camper noted, "We found at least three sites that could accommodate our 26' class C."
Leveling requirements: Most natural sites require leveling equipment. A visitor to Hidden Treasure RV Resort mentioned, "Site 19 was quite unlevel, but nothing a few leveling blocks couldn't handle."
Generator policies: No restrictions on generator use at most dispersed sites, but forest policy encourages limiting hours to between 8am-8pm as a courtesy to other campers.
Communication preparedness: Cell coverage varies significantly throughout the forest. Forest Road 380 has "ZERO cell service. We might have been able to set our phones down and it get ONE Bar, but as soon as you pick it up it's gone."
