The Kisatchie National Forest region near Ville Platte, Louisiana offers horse-friendly camping opportunities across 604,000 acres of protected forest land. The area features a mix of pine-dominated forests, small lakes, and over 100 miles of multi-use trails suitable for equestrian activities. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Trail riding exploration: Horse enthusiasts visiting the Kisatchie National Forest can access an extensive network of multi-use paths. At Ahtus Melder Camp, riders connect directly to the Clairborne Trail system, which requires a $5.00 access fee. As N I. notes, "Clairborne Trail $5.00 access fee... This is a really great spot and plenty of room for all. Great open green space for grazing."
Off-highway vehicle adventures: The forest area provides designated routes for motorized recreation alongside equestrian options. The Enduro Complex features "miles and miles of trails attached to this campground. OHV, horse or hiking. Beautiful area, just don't forget sunscreen, water, bug and tick repellant. The trails are very well marked," according to Paula W.
Primitive camping experience: Visitors seeking a rustic overnight stay can utilize undeveloped sites throughout the forest. Paula W. describes one such area: "There is not much to this campground. Located inside the Kisatchie National Forest, Evangeline District. As soon as you enter the area, there is a small loopped grassy area with lots of trees."
What campers like
Spacious horse grazing areas: Equestrian camping near Ville Platte offers ample room for horses to rest and feed. N I. appreciates that at Ahtus Melder Camp, there's "Great open green space for grazing. No reason to park next to your neighbor. Site is well maintained but if it has rained it could be very muddy."
Free access options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the no-cost areas available in the forest. "FREE FCFS," mentions N I. about Ahtus Melder Camp, indicating its first-come-first-served status without fees, making it an economical option for horse camping trips.
Well-marked trail systems: The forest features clearly designated routes for various recreational activities. Paula W. notes that at Enduro Complex, "The trails are very well marked" - a practical benefit for riders exploring unfamiliar territory within the forest boundaries.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The forest's trail conditions fluctuate with rainfall. N I. warns that at Rustic Sky Horse Camp, "if it has rained it could be very muddy" - an important consideration for horse riders planning trips during or after precipitation.
No facilities at primitive sites: Many locations require complete self-sufficiency. Paula W. explains that Ahtus Melder Camp offers "No facilities, totally primitive," adding visitors must "Pack it in, Pack it out" following Leave No Trace principles.
Road quality concerns: Access routes to some camping areas may present challenges. Paula W. cautions about Ahtus Melder: "If you follow the road/concrete path, you may lose a tire or axil bc the road is in BAD condition."
Tips for camping with families
Insect protection required: Parents should pack appropriate repellents for forest camping trips. Paula W. emphasizes the importance at Enduro Complex: "just don't forget sunscreen, water, bug and tick repellant" - especially critical for protecting children during warm-weather visits.
Water planning: No running water exists at several sites, requiring advance preparation. "No water, must pack it in," Paula W. notes about Enduro Complex, making it essential for families to calculate daily water needs for both humans and horses before arrival.
Simple camping option: Families seeking basic accommodations can utilize entry-level sites. Paula W. describes one area as having "a small loopped grassy area with lots of trees. Nothing else to indicate a campground (other than the sign)," highlighting its minimalist nature suitable for families comfortable with rustic conditions.
Tips from RVers
Trailer accessibility: Horse trailers and recreational vehicles have varying accommodation options in the forest. N I. confirms that "This campground is free and will accommodate RV's, tents, and trailers" at Ahtus Melder Camp, providing options for equestrians bringing large rigs.
Spacing advantages: Unlike developed campgrounds with designated sites, dispersed areas offer flexibility. N I. appreciates that at Ahtus Melder Camp there's "plenty of room for all... No reason to park next to your neighbor," allowing RV campers to position vehicles optimally for horse supervision and comfort.
Shade availability: Mature trees provide natural climate control for parked vehicles. N I. notes the area "has nice mature trees," offering valuable protection from the intense Louisiana sun for RVs without electrical hookups for air conditioning.
