Cabins and glamping options near Blanchard, Louisiana allow campers to experience the regional pine forests and bayous without sacrificing comfort. The area sits within the East Texas/Northwest Louisiana forest region at elevations between 150-250 feet above sea level, creating a humid subtropical climate. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F while summer months regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Kayaking through cypress trees: Buffalo Bayou RV Park provides direct access to paddling trails that showcase the area's distinctive waterways. The park has "a kayak rental right next door which is a very short paddle to the camp. There's 3 trails close to the park. Trails took 1-2 hours depending on which one you take and how fast you paddle," according to a visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Caddo Lake State Park Campground offers a distinctive ecosystem with Spanish moss-draped cypress trees. "The lake itself was fantastic and otherworldly. Absolutely beautiful in early November," notes one camper, while another mentions it "looks like something straight out of a Louisiana swamp movie. Huge old cypress trees with Spanish moss hanging from the limbs."
Hiking through pine forests: Martin Creek Lake State Park Campground maintains several interconnected trails with diverse terrain. A visitor observed: "I hiked all three trails, which were easy to follow but not that well marked where they crossed. There are some unbelievably tall Loblolly Pines back on the trails - simply amazing!"
What campers like
Spacious, private campsites: Cypress Black Bayou Recreation Area receives consistent praise for its site layout. A recent guest shared, "I loved the spaciousness of each site leaving a lot of room between you and your neighbors." Another commented, "Plenty of room between sites and great views."
Clean, heated facilities: Winter glamping in Blanchard benefits from modern comfort stations. Campers consistently mention the "immaculately clean" bathhouse at Cypress Black Bayou, with one specifically noting: "The bathhouse was heated and a welcome chance to shower in something other than a matchbox."
Lake access and water recreation: Atlanta State Park Campground provides excellent water access points. "The park is meticulously maintained with several hiking trails, minimally busy on the lake. Great for sup/kayaking!" observed one visitor. Multiple boat ramps and swimming areas with beaches make water activities convenient.
What you should know
Seasonal factors affect experience: Winter visitors encounter fewer crowds but should prepare for cooler temperatures, while summer visitors should expect heat, humidity and insects. At Martin Creek, a camper advised: "We slept to the deafening croaks of frogs. Only 1 raccoon came upon our camp area."
Wildlife concerns: Water moccasins can be present near bayou camping areas. Buffalo Bayou RV Park "require[s] you to sign a waiver because of the water moccasins from the bayou and because of the potential of falling tree limbs," according to a recent visitor. Campers should maintain awareness around water areas.
Road noise impacts some locations: Shreveport Bossier City KOA provides convenient access but experiences some traffic noise. A camper mentioned their site was "too close to the main road and the noise from the cars was so loud, which led to an awful nights sleep."
Tips for camping with families
Screened shelters provide comfort: Martin Creek Lake offers screened shelters that provide extra protection from insects while maintaining the camping experience. One visitor described them as "IMMACULATE to say the least! They seem cob-webby from the outside but once inside, the concrete floor is smoother up the edges of the walls about 2.5', reducing entry of insects."
Educational wildlife opportunities: Caddo Lake State Park allows children to observe native wildlife in their natural habitat. "Quiet and great trails for you and the doggies!" notes one visitor, while another mentions cabins making "winter camping with kids do-able! Loved hiking and exploring!"
Swimming and beach areas: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. Atlanta State Park includes "play grounds and clean bathrooms," though one visitor suggests you should "prep for muddy feet and bugs galore!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Many regional campgrounds offer full hookups, but placement can sometimes be unexpected. At Cypress Black Bayou, a camper noted "Hookups are a little backwards," suggesting RVers should check utility locations before setting up.
Level site conditions: Atlanta State Park provides generally level pads for RVs, but some minor adjustment may be necessary. One RVer shared their experience: "Pads are fairly level, only took 1 2x12 in the one side, make sure to bring blocks for the rear stabilizers as the pad drops off at the back."
Overnight convenience: Shreveport Bossier City KOA works well for travelers needing a single night stay. A visitor described: "We had a level pull through with full service with no need to disconnect. Walmart right down the street for replenishing the goods. Great stop over."
