Dispersed camping sites near Bentley, Louisiana primarily concentrate in Kisatchie National Forest, offering rustic alternatives to established campgrounds. The forest spans nearly 604,000 acres across central Louisiana with pine-dominated ecosystems and elevations ranging from 80 to 410 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping conditions remain mild with occasional freezing temperatures at night.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Valentine Lake Northshore Campground offers a serene 46-acre lake where "motorized boats are not allowed" making it perfect for peaceful fishing. One visitor noted that their spot was "right by the fishing pier which was perfect for us."
Hiking trails: At Stuart Lake NF Campground, visitors can access multiple trails. One camper enjoyed "a wonderfully peaceful time" despite occasional "gunfire from a nearby shooting range." The campground connects to both the Stuart Nature Trail and Glenn Emery hiking and biking trail.
Swimming areas: Indian Creek Recreation Area features "multiple sandy beach areas" perfect for cooling off during hot Louisiana summers. A reviewer mentioned the campground is "designed for young families" with beaches that provide kid-friendly water access.
Kayaking: Colfax Recreation Area provides water access for paddlers. As one visitor shared, "We like to let the kids kayak in the oxbow at the landing," making it a good spot for families wanting to get on the water without traveling far.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: At Valentine Lake Northshore Campground, campers appreciate the lakeside locations. A visitor described it as offering "peace and beauty" with sites located directly along the lake. Another noted, "We were right by the fishing pier which was perfect for us."
Wildlife viewing: Campers report diverse wildlife encounters. One visitor to Valentine Lake "saw a gator while canoeing, and even saw an eagle!" Another at Indian Creek mentioned they "found massive wasps nests and turtle shells on the forest floor."
Quiet atmosphere: Stuart Lake Recreation Complex receives praise for its tranquility. A camper described it as a "perfect campground" with "beautiful pine trees" that "provide shade and beauty like none other," creating a "quiet" environment ideal for relaxation.
Clean facilities: Colfax Recreation Area maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. A visitor described it as a "very clean and quiet park" with "large sites with grill, fire pit, and picnic table," while another mentioned "manicured landscaping and clean bathhouses."
What you should know
Road access varies: Highway 472 Camp provides free dispersed camping but sits directly on a highway. A camper noted it's "split in half by a major hwy" with "vault toilets on both sides," making it convenient but potentially noisy.
Camping restrictions: Some areas have specific tent placement rules. At Valentine Lake Northshore Campground, "you can not put your tent on the grass," so campers should "make sure you have padding."
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds offer minimal facilities. Highway 472 Camp features "a few obvious clearings along the small gravel/mud loop" with "vault toilets" but little else, though it does provide "2 bars Verizon service, enough to send/receive & use internet/GPS."
First-come basis: Many sites don't accept reservations. Valentine Lake operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a $10 fee. A visitor advised, "Get there early because we saw only 12 sites to occupy."
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-oriented areas: Indian Creek Recreation Area is specifically "designed for young families" with "multiple sandy beach areas" and "playgrounds" that keep children entertained. One camper noted there was "lot for my elementary age children to do."
Designated swimming areas: Stuart Lake Recreation Complex offers a "swimming and fishing pond" with a dedicated beach area. A visitor mentioned "the swimming beach" is easily accessible from the campground via a trail.
Playground access: Colfax RV Park includes facilities for children. A reviewer mentioned "a nice playground for the kids as well as a nice shower house," making it suitable for family camping despite being primarily an RV-focused area.
Weekend crowd awareness: Indian Creek gets busy during weekends and school breaks. A camper observed "a lot of kids running around unsupervised" and "golf carts riding around with loud music until 1:30 am both nights," suggesting weekday visits might be more peaceful for families seeking quiet.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: At Colfax Recreation Area RV Park & Campground, RVers appreciate the "large sites" that are "spaced nicely and tucked into the trees." All spots feature "full hookup and 50 amp service," though "water pressure is a little low, but sufficient."
Leveling considerations: Cotile Recreation Area requires attention to site selection. One RVer mentioned "our site was kind of on a hill, and camper sat funny," suggesting campers should carefully assess the terrain before setting up.
Nighttime lighting: Light pollution can be an issue at some campgrounds. At Colfax Recreation Area, a camper noted "the only drawback is there is a large warehouse next door that is very well lit all night," which might affect those sensitive to light while sleeping.
