Tent campsites near Mora, Louisiana cluster around Kisatchie National Forest, situated within the South Central Plains ecoregion with elevations between 100-400 feet. The forest floor in this region features sandy soils that drain quickly after rainfall but can become dusty during dry periods. Camping conditions vary significantly by season with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F while winter nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Trail exploration: The Coyote Camp area connects directly to the sandstone trail system with multiple recreation options. According to one visitor, "There's an ATV trail nearby which I did some hiking on, and in general it was a nice and fairly secluded area, with your standard National Forest toilets, but no other facilities."
Water activities: The clear streams at Kisatchie Bayou NF Campground provide distinctive water features uncommon in Louisiana. A camper noted, "You almost feel as if you're in Arkansas with the clear water bayou running over sandstone creating a relaxing waterfall sound. No potable water, very primitive. Vault toilets."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best opportunity for deer spotting at most sites. One experienced camper at Coyote Camp reported, "We have seen a lot of snakes and it rains a lot. Some bees but not a serious nuisance. So just be aware when walking on the trails. Lots of deer and bobcats."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Red Bluff Camp provides isolation about 5 miles off the main forest road. One camper shared, "It is very remote and secluded, which we loved. It is very remote and secluded, which we loved."
Natural water features: Many visitors appreciate the unusual creek formations. A camper at Kisatchie Bayou noted, "Camp next to this beautiful sounding creek, there is a beach to lay out on while the kids play in the water or you can hit the Caroline dorman trail on foot or horseback. Excellent site."
Dark skies: Coyote Camp offers excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper mentioned, "Extremely quiet, great dark sky opportunities. Mostly used as a hunter's camp. Direct access to the overlook and the sandstone trail."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest access roads can be challenging, particularly after rain. At Coyote Camp, a visitor warned, "The road here is a little rutted out and has a couple of potholes, but nothing crazy."
Wildlife precautions: Multiple campers report wildlife encounters. At Stuart Complex, the forest environment supports diverse wildlife. One visitor at another nearby site cautioned, "It took about ten minutes to become one of my favorite spots. The only thing I have to say about it is to be aware, as we walked into our campsite almost every bit of ground that wasn't packed had been torn up by hogs, like a lot of hogs."
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the forest. At Kisatchie Bayou, one camper reported, "I didn't have a cell signal there with AT&T and didn't have one for some time prior to arrival at the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Indian Creek Recreation Area offers safe, family-friendly water access. A visitor noted, "Love Indian Creek! The cleanliness of the primitive camp sites is unsurpassed. Beautiful views of the lake can be seen from almost all primitive sites."
Playground access: Some developed sites provide recreational facilities for children. A family camper shared, "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."
Site selection: For families, choosing the right location can impact the experience. A camper at Indian Creek explained, "We went during the week, so it was quiet. So pretty. No sewer hookup, but has 2 dump stations. We were able to launch our kayaks from our RV site."
Tips from RVers
Site access: Most primitive sites have limited RV access. At Valentine Lake South Shore, the waterfront setting provides specific advantages. A visitor noted, "Great water front sites at $10 a night is not bad!!! There is no power or water at sites but has community water faucets in a few areas... The bathouse is real nice."
RV size limitations: Many forest campgrounds have tight turns and limited space. One camper at Indian Creek explained, "We have a 21' travel trailer and barely fit it and our Toyota Tundra in site 52. The lake was visible when standing inside the camper but not from our chairs by the fire."
Leveling challenges: Many tent campsites near Mora have uneven terrain. An RVer reported, "There was a pretty steep drop off from the concrete pad to the ground level forcing us to put our outdoor rug on the ground."
