Dispersed camping near Woodworth, Louisiana offers primitive sites in the Kisatchie National Forest area with varying degrees of isolation. The forest comprises mainly pine trees with elevation ranging from 100-300 feet above sea level. Most primitive sites experience hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, while winter temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing, especially during cold fronts.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: The Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail spans nearly 18 miles with multiple primitive camping spots along the route. One camper shared, "I hiked about 7.5 miles in from the Valentine Lake trailhead to a large clearing by the bridge with a nice cool stream. There are other clearings nearby which would be great for a small group camp."
Foraging adventures: Certain seasons offer foraging opportunities in the forest areas. At Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest, one visitor noted their experience: "My first time finding and eating Lions Maine Mushrooms." Winter months may offer fewer foraging options, so plan accordingly.
Fishing: Valentine Lake provides fishing opportunities for those seeking a relaxing outdoor activity. According to a regular visitor, the lake offers "Great fishing" with multiple access points. Remember to secure appropriate Louisiana fishing licenses before your trip.
What campers like
Natural water sources: Multiple camping areas feature accessible water sources. At Forest Road 380, campers appreciate the "natural spring that is piped just as you enter FR380. Locals come here to fill water. It's very fresh and refreshing."
Trail conditions: Many campers note the well-maintained nature of the trails near Evangeline Camp Complex. A visitor described it as a "Great trail. Very well marked and maintained. Some wet areas but not bad. Awesome primitive camping sites along trail."
Privacy and seclusion: The dispersed camping areas throughout Kisatchie National Forest offer solitude. One Forest Road 380 camper noted, "This place is so secluded that no one drives out here and it's 100% peaceful."
What you should know
No cell service: Many primitive camping spots lack reliable communication. Forest Road 380 has "ZERO cell service. We might have been able to set our phones down and it get ONE Bar, but as soon as you pick it up it's gone."
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites can be challenging in wet conditions. A camper at Forest Road 380 warned, "The road is fine. A little hard to get through if it's wet. The spots to stay in have very rutted roads."
Wildlife awareness: When camping near Highway 472 Camp, be prepared for wildlife encounters. This designated hunter camp is inside the Catahoula National Wildlife Management Preserve, and according to reviews, you should "call the rangers or know your seasons (deer, turkey, etc.)" if you plan to stay during hunting seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose camping areas with established clearings when bringing children. At Hunter's Camp, "The camping area is open to the sky and has yellow pines that create random shade. Great place to charge with solar panels on a sunny day."
Water safety: For families visiting Valentine Lake, exercise caution with children near water. One experienced visitor warns against swimming: "Wouldn't recommend swimming in that lake. Lots of Gators and big snapping turtles."
Seasonal timing: Consider planning family camping trips during cooler months. A camper noted, "For me I enjoy middle to late October when it's cooler for sleeping in teepee hot tent."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility for different vehicles: Highway 472 Camp offers options for various vehicle types. A visitor noted, "There are a few cleared out spots with obvious old campfires. There were even places that looked like you could back in an RV."
Overnight spots: For those traveling through the area, Highway 472 Hunter's Camp provides convenient overnight options. A traveler shared, "Great little option as an overnight spot. Not much to it, just a few obvious clearings along the small gravel/mud loop on either side of the road, a few more if you're imaginative."
Limited amenities: RVers should prepare for primitive conditions at most sites. A Highway 472 visitor described their experience: "The bathrooms haven't been maintenanced or cleaned up in the actual area. We just set up our outdoor toilet because there wasn't a soul here."
