Camping opportunities near Turkey Creek, Louisiana include primitive and developed sites within a 30-mile radius. The area sits in a transitional zone between pine forests and bottomland hardwoods, with elevations ranging from 100-180 feet. Fall camping temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, while winter lows can drop to 30°F with occasional frost that affects water availability at some locations.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Chicot State Park features a 20-mile hiking trail around the lake's perimeter, plus shorter routes for day hikers. "There is a ton to see as far as wildlife goes....armadillos, alligators, tons of birds, snakes, etc. The trail that we took could be taken on foot or by mountain bike. We have done it both ways," notes one visitor to South Campground — Chicot State Park.
Kayaking and canoeing: Paddle trails at several recreation areas provide water-based exploration opportunities. The shorelines offer varied landscapes from cypress trees to open water. "Been camping here primitively on a quiet small peninsular and loved it, stayed away from the beaches but they look clean and well kept," shares a camper at Indian Creek Recreation Area.
Fishing opportunities: Most lakes in the area are well-stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish. Fishing piers provide access for those without boats. At North Campground — Chicot State Park, "Day 2 we rented a boat and paddled out for some fishing. The process was seamless and the staff friendly. The fishing pier was amazing and the kids loved how far out it went."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer sites with ample space between neighbors, especially during weekdays. "The sites are well shaded, even, spacious, and far enough away from your neighbors that you have the sense of privacy," notes a camper at Loran Site Complex.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds like Indian Creek Recreation Area maintain their bathhouses and common areas regularly. "The cleanliness of the primitive camp sites is unsurpassed. Beautiful views of the lake can be seen from almost all primitive sites," reports one visitor who appreciated the maintenance level.
Quiet atmosphere: Weekday camping offers a more serene experience at most campgrounds. "We went during the week, so it was quiet. So pretty. No sewer hookup, but has 2 dump stations. We were able to launch our kayaks from our RV site," shares a camper about Crooked Creek Recreation Area.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Campers should secure food and trash properly as wildlife is active in the region. "We were visited by raccoons one night, but they were easily & quickly scared away. Campers should definitely be aware & cautious of wildlife in the area," advises a camper at Indian Creek Recreation Area.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during non-peak times provides more site options and fewer crowds. "We stopped at this campground for one night on our way home. Some of the sites are close together, but we called and they put us in a spot that was very spacious. There were almost no other campers there so it helps to go in the middle of the week," notes a visitor to North Campground at Chicot State Park.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide water at each site. At primitive areas like Loran Site Complex, there are "well defined, marked sites with firepit, picnic table, lantern ring, but NO WATER. There are vault toilets available, but NO WATER."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas and swimming access. "This is a campground that is designed for young families, from the multiple sandy beach areas to the playgrounds, there was lot for my elementary age children to do," explains a visitor to Indian Creek Recreation Area Best Camping Spot.
Site selection for families: Request sites away from heavy traffic areas for safety and noise reduction. "We stayed in site 56. We felt like 'kings of the mountain' during our second stay at Indian Creek as we were at the top of a hill. Site 56 had a HUGE backyard leading down to the lake," shares a family who found an ideal setup.
Entertainment options: Some parks offer special events or facilities specifically for children. "This has become our favorite affordable getaway for RV camping. Summer is awesome because of the outdoor AND indoor water park. Fall has been great because of the nice fire pits and we are now a huge fan of their Halloween celebration," reports a family who visited Gator Grounds RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Most campgrounds have reasonably level sites, but some require blocks. "We stayed in site 109, which is a full hook up site. Slightly unlevel, needed blocks on the right side," notes an RVer at Indian Creek Recreation Area Best Camping Spot.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may be challenging. A visitor to Ahtus Melder Camp warns, "If you follow the road/concrete path, you may lose a tire or axil bc the road is in BAD condition."
Hookup availability: Check for utility options before booking as they vary widely between campgrounds. "Stayed for two days in North campground. Campground has bath house with individual showers. 30 amp hookups," reports a visitor to North Campground at Chicot State Park.
