Glamping opportunities close to Pineville, Louisiana center around the extensive Kisatchie National Forest and nearby state parks. This region features a humid subtropical climate with long, hot summers and mild winters, making camping possible year-round but most comfortable in spring and fall. Water features prominently in the landscape with bayous, lakes, and rivers offering recreational opportunities across various camping areas.
What to do
Hiking trails: South Campground at Chicot State Park features extensive trail systems for different skill levels. As reviewer Mike V. notes, "Miles of trails for hiking & biking. Even a paddle trail out on the lake. Two campgrounds with bathroom/shower bldgs. Also has scenic primitive campsites that you can hike to and/or paddle to."
Water activities: Colfax RV Park provides excellent fishing access with proper facilities. "The park has a nice free day use boat launch as well as a floating dock with a fish cleaning station. The park is very clean and does not smell fishy," explains Paula W.
Wildlife viewing: Kisatchie Bayou Complex offers natural habitats perfect for observing native species. Tyler B. describes the area: "Primitive camping along the 10mi Backbone trail... The backbone trail has to be the prettiest trail in the state of Louisiana. It's really the only place in the state to experience actual hills."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at North Campground — Chicot State Park. Nick U. reports, "The staff was very friendly and they had a great hiking path and playground for our 5 year old. I biked most of the paved roads in the state park and was able to go 13 miles without doubling anywhere."
Spacious sites: Sites at South Campground — Chicot State Park provide adequate room for comfortable camping. A reviewer mentioned, "It's so well taken care of, it's beautiful, and there's so much to explore. It's a welcoming place to experience Louisiana outdoors."
Natural setting: The bayou environment creates a unique glamping experience. Gabriella L. says about Kisatchie Bayou, "Beautiful scenery. The Bayou Campground has a stream with a beach. Toilets are available by the parking lot, but no sinks. Bring extra toilet paper just in case they run out."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer humidity can be extreme, affecting camping comfort. Cat R. warns at South Campground — Chicot State Park, "We camped at site 363, not too bad, definitely needs upgrades. Not enough space between campers to even light a fire. There are miles of beautiful hiking trails, but beware of snakes!"
Wildlife awareness: Alligators inhabit many water bodies in the region. Pam G. observed, "Stayed for two days in North campground. Campground has bath house with individual showers. 30 amp hookups. Did canoe loop which was pretty easy to follow. Saw some big gators especially by the boat ramp."
Water levels: Bayou water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting activities. Lindsey F. notes about Kisatchie Bayou, "Overall experience was great, but every time I go the trash cans are absolutely over flowing! Other than that it's a nice site, right along the water. Gets crowded during the summer."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Colfax RV Park, Paula W. shares, "There is a nice playground for the kids as well as a nice shower house. The park has lots of picnic areas (34) set up under shade trees."
Splash pad option: Chicot State Park offers water play features separate from the lake. Timothy O. mentions, "Very clean well maintained camp sites and cabins. Fishing, canoeing and hiking trails are available as well as splash pad for the kids."
Safety considerations: Limited swimming options due to alligators. Mike V. cautions, "No swimming allowed here. There are some alligators in the water. Lake is popular for fishing. Lots of birds here. Negatives are the wasps, ticks, and chiggers."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: North Campground at Chicot State Park provides necessary connections for comfortable stays. Toby D. recommends, "I'm going with 41/2 stars! Great facilities, Great fishing, Great hiking, Great Arboretum! The only down side is that it can get a little crowded and noisy on busy weekends."
Site spacing: Some RV sites may lack privacy during peak periods. Melanie H. advises, "Lake was beautiful. Awesome kayaking. Camp sites are a little close, especially because we usually go to tent only sections. The is none at Chicot, so the loud Rvs trucks and motorcycles were annoying."
Security features: Colfax offers enhanced security for overnight stays. Linda S. notes, "Large sites, few trees, manicured landscaping and clean bathhouses. Really quite with friendly park rangers."
