Payne Lane Farms offers equestrians a place to camp with their horses near West Monroe, Louisiana. This rural facility caters specifically to horse owners seeking basic accommodations while traveling with their animals. The private property maintains space for RVs and horse trailers, though campers should note the absence of standard utilities like water hookups, electric connections, showers, or toilets. Located in northeastern Louisiana, this region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures, making spring and fall ideal for equestrian camping trips.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Horse owners visiting Payne Lane Farms can access multiple riding areas within the West Monroe region. The property serves as a convenient base camp for equestrians exploring the rural landscapes of Ouachita Parish.
Fishing excursions: The West Monroe area contains several waterways for fishing enthusiasts. Nearby Bayou D'Arbonne offers opportunities for catching bass, crappie, and catfish, providing an alternative activity when not riding.
Wildlife observation: The agricultural and wooded areas surrounding West Monroe support diverse wildlife populations. Early morning or evening rides often provide opportunities to spot deer, various bird species, and small mammals in their natural habitats.
What campers like
Basic but functional setup: Campers appreciate that Payne Lane Farms maintains a straightforward approach focused on accommodating horses and their owners. The property prioritizes equestrian needs rather than luxury amenities.
Fire availability: The permission to have fires and provided firewood receives positive mention from visitors. During cooler months, this feature allows campers to enjoy evenings outdoors after riding activities.
Rural setting: The farm's location offers a quiet environment away from urban noise. The countryside setting creates an authentic agricultural experience appropriate for horse camping rather than a commercial campground atmosphere.
What you should know
Limited utilities: Visitors must come prepared with their own water supply for both human and equine needs. The lack of hookups means RVers should arrive with full tanks and be self-sufficient regarding electrical needs.
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is mandatory at Payne Lane Farms. The property manages space allocation for horse trailers and RVs through its reservation system to ensure adequate room for all visitors and their animals.
Weather considerations: The West Monroe region can experience significant seasonal variations. Summer heat and humidity can be intense for both horses and riders, while winter nights occasionally drop below freezing. Spring brings potential for thunderstorms and rain that may affect riding conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Without traditional campground amenities, families should pack games, activities, and entertainment options. Children not actively involved with horses will need alternative diversions during downtime.
Water planning: Families need to calculate daily water requirements carefully. Each person typically uses 1-2 gallons per day for drinking and basic hygiene, plus additional water for cooking and cleaning, not including horse requirements which can exceed 10 gallons per animal daily.
Safety preparations: Establish clear boundaries for children around horses and camping areas. The working farm environment presents different safety considerations than standard campgrounds, requiring increased supervision and awareness.
Tips from RVers
Power management: Without electrical hookups, RVers at Payne Lane Farms recommend bringing fully charged batteries, solar options, or quiet generators if permitted. Energy conservation becomes essential for extended stays.
Storage solutions: Horse owners traveling with RVs suggest maximizing storage efficiency for both camping gear and equestrian equipment. Organize tack, feed, and riding accessories in weather-resistant containers that can remain secure in the trailer or outside the RV.
Vehicle positioning: Experienced horse campers recommend positioning RVs to create natural paddock boundaries when possible. This arrangement can provide wind breaks for horses while allowing better monitoring from the camping area.
