Camping options near Pineville, Louisiana cluster along waterways, with sites concentrated around Cotile Lake, Red River, and nearby recreational areas. The region's subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers with average July temperatures reaching 92°F, while winter lows typically remain above freezing. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 95-200 feet above sea level, with terrain varying from wooded lakeshores to riverfront landscapes.
What to do
Fishing access at riverside sites: Colfax Recreation Area RV Park & Campground offers direct access to the Red River with dedicated fishing facilities. "This is a quiet park right on the Red River. Sunsets are amazing over the river... All spots are full hookup and 50 amp service," notes Gary G. The park includes "nice boat launch, docks and fish cleaning area" according to Shirley B.
Kayaking opportunities: Several rv sites near Pineville, Louisiana provide paddling options. Jessica B. mentions about Colfax Recreation Area: "We like to let the kids kayak in the oxbow at the landing. Nice place to go for a short weekend trip to get out the house and on the water!"
Water park entertainment: For families seeking alternatives to natural swimming areas, Gator Grounds RV Resort offers extensive water recreation. "Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park," states Josh B. Another visitor noted, "The indoor pools and splash pads were open and heated," making this a year-round option.
What campers like
Waterfront camping views: RVers appreciate lakeside sites at Hidden Treasure RV Resort. "We are in site #17 and it overlooks the lake. Owners are fantastic," shares Ty A. Another camper elaborates: "Slightly hilly with beautiful mature trees, some which have several bird feeders attached! Wildlife galore. Site 19 was quite unlevel, but nothing a few leveling blocks couldn't handle... along with a gorgeous view of Cotile Lake."
Casino convenience: Paragon Casino Resort combines camping with entertainment options. "This resort has large paved pull through sites with full hookups (electricity, water, sewer/cable and wifi)," according to Travyl Couple. Another camper appreciated the "boardwalk that connects the casino, campground and Tunica Indian museum and powwow ceremonial grounds and is also great for walking for exercise."
Seasonal celebrations: Holiday weekends feature special activities at many campgrounds. Josh B. notes about Gator Grounds: "Fall has been great because of the nice fire pits and we are now a huge fan of their Halloween celebration. The camping spots really go all out in decorating for the kids. There was a costume contest and then a time for kids to visit all spots for candy."
What you should know
Site surface variations: Campgrounds differ in pad composition throughout the area. "Sites at Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park are all on clean concrete pads," reports Lea B. In contrast, Cat R. describes Gator Grounds sites as "small crushed limestone" with "park streets are concrete."
Varied site leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. A camper at Hidden Treasure RV Resort observed, "Not all sites are level, but that may change with their improvements." Another noted "Site 19 was quite unlevel, but nothing a few leveling blocks couldn't handle."
Seasonal crowd fluctuations: Off-season camping offers different experiences. Cat R. shares about Gator Grounds: "Although it's not our first visit here, it is our first during off season. It was quiet, roomy, and spotlessly clean!" Paragon Casino Resort experiences similar patterns, with one visitor noting the campground was "only about 25-30% full" in late March, providing "ample privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access timing: Be aware of operating hours for water amenities. A visitor to Gator Grounds observed, "Unfortunately we didn't have much time because we didn't realize the outside pool area closes at 7pm. Bummer! Really? Fourth of July weekend and you close down at 7pm!"
Check campground event schedules: River Island RV Park offers diverse family activities. "They have an amazing place out there! Something for everyone, mud riding, fishing, trail rides, and sits right on the gorgeous Red River!" reports Ty J.
Consider alternative accommodations: Several campgrounds offer cabin options for families without RVs. Cheri H. notes that Paragon Casino Resort has "little cabins and chalets for rent at the back of the campground," providing flexibility for mixed camping groups.
Tips from RVers
Bathroom access considerations: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. Duncan G. warns about Paragon Casino Resort: "The only thing I didn't like was the lack of bathrooms in the park. There was only one in the office building. I like to rely on park bathrooms as much as possible. This place is designed for self-contained RV camping."
Cell service information: Data speeds vary by carrier and location across rv sites near Pineville, Louisiana. At Gator Grounds, one RVer measured "AT&T Speedtest: 7.6 Mbps down, 1.07 Mbps up" with "2 bars of LTE."
Parking configurations: Consider site layouts when planning your visit to Hidden Treasure RV Resort. Cheryl G. notes it was her "first campground in an RV. They are working on adding sites." Another camper advises to request lakefront sites, mentioning "we are in site #17 and it overlooks the lake," which provides prime views.