Forest Road 380 in Kisatchie National Forest provides dispersed camping near Zwolle, Louisiana, within a mixed pine and hardwood forest ecosystem. The forest floor contains abundant wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Kisatchie National Forest spans over 604,000 acres across central and northern Louisiana, with FR380 situated in a remote section that offers backcountry camping opportunities.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forest surrounding FR380 contains diverse wildlife habitat. "The forest is great to explore. If you're into foraging, this is definitely not the place in the winter months," notes a camper at Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest.
Mushroom foraging (seasonal): During wet seasons, the forest produces edible fungi species. One camper reports, "We did find some amazing things. My first time finding and eating Lions Maine Mushrooms," during their stay at Forest Road 380.
Water collection: The natural spring at the entrance provides a reliable water source. "There is a natural spring that is piped just as you enter FR380. Locals come here to fill water. It's very fresh and refreshing," according to a visitor to Forest Road 380 Dispersed.
What campers like
Complete digital disconnection: The remote location forces a true unplugged experience. "Let me start of by saying there is 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," shares a camper from Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest.
Ease of navigation: Despite the remote location, finding the sites isn't complicated. A visitor notes, "Getting to the camp site was pretty straightforward through google Maps. You can pull ur vehicle right up your camp site," when describing their experience at Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest.
Extended stay options: The generous stay limit allows for longer wilderness immersion. "The stay here is 30 days," mentions one camper, making this dispersed camping area suitable for those seeking extended backcountry time.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Louisiana's typically mild climate can experience unexpected cold fronts. "Normally in december it's not 12 degrees for a high ANYWHERE in this state," reported one camper during an unusual cold snap at Forest Road 380.
Rain impacts: Precipitation significantly affects road conditions and camping experience. A camper noted, "It rained about 16-17 days of our stay," indicating that extended rain periods can occur in this area.
Previous site usage: Some areas show evidence of prior recreational use. "Lots of trash behind some of the sites. Can definitely tell it's a party spot. Or at least it used to be," observed one visitor to Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Natural water play: The spring provides both practical water supply and educational opportunities for children. "The drive there was beautiful. There is a natural spring that runs on side of the road about a half mile from the campsite. It has been piped in for easy access," notes a camper, highlighting an accessible natural feature.
Firewood availability: Teaching responsible firewood gathering is possible here. "There is plenty of broken trees to use for fire wood," states a camper at Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest, making this a good location to teach sustainable camping practices.
Temperature management: Evening temperature drops require proper planning with children. A visitor cautions, "The temp drops quickly during the winter months so be prepared," emphasizing the importance of adequate warmth for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: Access roads require careful evaluation before bringing in larger vehicles. A camper advises, "The road is fine. A little hard to get through if it's wet. The spots to stay in have very rutted roads," providing insight for those considering RV access.
Spacious group camping: Several sites accommodate larger setups or multiple vehicles. "There are about 5 camp areas. a few of them are group sites. Very large and spacious," notes a camper at Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest, indicating potential for group camping with multiple rigs.
Vehicle accessibility: Standard passenger vehicles can access the area during dry conditions. According to one visitor, "Pretty easy to take just about anything down it," suggesting that smaller RVs and trailers could navigate the forest roads when conditions permit.
