Camping sites near Provencal, Louisiana provide access to Kisatchie National Forest's distinct ecosystems, where pine-hardwood forests grow across sandstone hills with elevations reaching 400 feet above sea level. The area has four distinct seasons with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, while winter nights can drop below freezing from December through February. The region receives approximately 60 inches of annual rainfall, with spring being the wettest season.
What to do
Trail riding and OHV activities: The Sandstone Trail system connects multiple camping areas and offers specialized recreation zones. "This camp is for the purpose of OTV riding but regular camping is allowed. Drinking water, flush toilet, picnic table, fire ring, trash," notes a reviewer about Lotus Camp, adding that "this really is a great place for the family and all the family fun."
Creek swimming and floating: Several campgrounds offer access to clear-running water features. At Kisatchie Bayou Complex, a camper reports, "Swimming, camping, hiking, and canoeing can all be done here. Toilets but no running water. great area to spend the day and swim!" Another visitor mentions, "The Bayou Campground has a stream with a beach. Toilets are available by the parking lot, but no sinks."
Hiking the Backbone Trail: This challenging 10-mile route offers some of the most dramatic terrain in the region. "Primitive camping along the 10mi Backbone trail. Took out the hammock and camped out around the halfway mark along the 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," according to one hiker.
What campers like
Solitude and secluded campsites: Many visitors appreciate the remote feeling at Coyote Camp, where one camper noted, "This was particularly nice as I was the only person at the site when I visited. It is free for camping use, though there is a fee for things like ATV's." Another visitor shared, "My wife and I stayed one night, it was very nice and peaceful. We found it very easy, and was definitely in the woods. We were the only people there."
Dark skies for stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes certain campgrounds ideal for astronomy. "Extremely quiet, great dark sky opportunities. Mostly used as a hunter's camp. Direct access to the overlook and the sandstone trail," reports a reviewer about Coyote Camp.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest supports diverse wildlife populations. At Red Bluff Camp, campers can experience this firsthand. "We camped here with a small group including 2 couples, one kid, and 2 dogs. It is very remote and secluded, which we loved," shares one visitor. Another campground visitor mentions, "We have seen a lot of snakes and it rains a lot. Some bees but not a serious nuisance. So just be aware when walking on the trails. Lots of deer and bobcats."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved routes. A visitor to Oak Camp Complex mentions, "The roads are very easy to traverse," but experiences differ by location and recent weather. A Coyote Camp visitor notes, "The road was ROUGH but the nature and secluded area was beautiful."
Cell service is unreliable: Don't expect connectivity at most forest campsites. One camper at Kisatchie Bayou Campground reports, "It's remote and requires travel down gravel roads to access it. I didn't have a cell signal there with AT&T and didn't have one for some time prior to arrival at the campground."
Hunting seasons impact camping experience: During hunting seasons, campground atmosphere changes significantly. A reviewer at Corral Camp explains, "We arrived during hunting season and it was a little busy but the hunters were very friendly if you don't mind a lot of people running around with rifles, etc. It was fine and we did not mind, if you do don't go camping in the woods."
Vehicle size limitations: Many primitive sites have restrictions. "This sure is not far at all from Corral camp which cost $10 a night. This one is free though and is only about a 2 min drive. No hook ups and we got our 43 ft 5th wheel in just fine," reports a visitor about Oak Camp, showing some sites can accommodate larger rigs despite primitive designations.
Tips for camping with families
Camping near water features: Children especially enjoy the creek access at several locations. At Kisatchie Bayou NF Campground, "You almost feel as if you're in Arkansas with the clear water bayou running over sandstone creating a relaxing waterfall sound. No potable water, very primitive. Vault toilets. Campsites are spread out nicely."
Bring extra supplies: Limited facilities mean preparation is essential. "Bring extra toilet paper just in case they run out," advises a Kisatchie Bayou visitor. Another notes, "Pack it in, Pack it out" as the standard practice at most forest campsites.
Seasonal planning is crucial: Weather significantly impacts family camping experiences. A visitor noted about one campsite, "When the water levels are high there are beautiful waterfalls," showing how seasonal timing affects activities. Another mentions summer insect activity: "Not as many bugs but it's still warm and temps reached the mid 80's."
Tips from RVers
Consider developed alternatives: For those needing hookups, options exist outside the national forest. A visitor to Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park reports, "Nice large pull through sites with easy hook ups. We stayed here for 4 days due to proximity to Kisatchie National Forest." Another mentions, "We stayed 3 nights and it was a peaceful visit. There were plenty of sites to choose from, all on clean concrete pads."
Generator requirements: Most forest sites lack power. "Very shaded with pine and hardwoods, bring a generator," advises a Corral Camp visitor, highlighting the necessity for self-contained power if staying at primitive sites.
RV site selection: Some primitive sites can accommodate larger rigs. "There is a $3 per night fee to camp here and a $5 trail use fee," notes a visitor about Lotus Camp, adding useful information about costs for RVers considering these more rustic options.
