Best Equestrian Camping near Natchitoches, LA
Kisatchie National Forest provides multiple horse-friendly camping options near Natchitoches, Louisiana. Oak Camp Complex specifically caters to equestrians with designated camping areas that accommodate both riders and their horses. The campground features fire rings, vault toilets, and spacious areas for horse trailers. Sites are $5 per night with a 14-day limit. The grounds are well-maintained with ample shade from pine and hardwood trees. During hunting season, Oak Camp becomes particularly busy, so advance planning is recommended. The campground prohibits off-road vehicles to prevent horses from being spooked.
Trail access directly connects Oak Camp to the larger Kisatchie National Forest trail system, offering miles of riding opportunities through diverse Louisiana terrain. Lotus Camp, located nearby, provides an alternative with drinking water and flush toilets, though it primarily serves off-road vehicle users rather than equestrians. For riders seeking different terrain, Gum Springs Recreation Area features hilly trails and natural springs with CCC-era construction elements from the 1930s. Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern post. The area offers a $5 trail use fee in addition to camping costs. Riders should note that facilities are primitive, with no corrals, so portable fencing or highlines are necessary for securing horses overnight.
