Oak Camp Complex is a primitive campground located in Kisatchie National Forest near Natchitoches, Louisiana, approximately 20 miles from Zwolle. The $5 per night fee provides access to vault toilets and designated camping areas within pine and hardwood forests. The 14-day camping limit allows sufficient time to explore the surrounding trail systems. Campsites can accommodate smaller recreational vehicles and trailers in addition to tent camping.
What to do
Ride the Sandstone Trail system: Equestrian camping near Zwolle, Louisiana offers direct access to an extensive network of riding trails. At Lotus Camp, "Each campsite has a fire ring, picnic table and lots of tree roots. This campground is designated for off road vehicle campers as opposed to horse campers... There is a $3 per night fee to camp here and a $5 trail use fee," notes Paula W.
Explore multiple campgrounds: Horse riders can access various camping options within Kisatchie National Forest. At Oak Camp Complex, camping is available for "Horse and general camping with no OHV camping. NO WATER but there are pit toilets and there was one fire ring," according to N I., who also mentions the area becomes "VERY busy during hunting season."
Swim in nearby lakes: When temperatures rise in summer months, cooling off becomes a priority. At Brookeland Campground, "If you want to escape the hot summer in Texas, I would recommend coming to Brookeland Campground because there is a beautiful lake nearby... We enjoyed hiking in the morning, and then playing in the lake mid morning-afternoon. There were tons of people swimming, boating, tubing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding."
What campers like
Peaceful forest surroundings: The secluded nature of horseback riding areas creates quiet camping experiences. At Ebenezer Park, "The park seems very well designed for equestrian, but also good for tent camping. The trails are nice and wide. Tent spots are spacious, although most sites do require a decent walk from the car."
Natural terrain for experienced riders: The forest landscape provides varied riding conditions. Hannah L. describes her experience at Oak Camp Complex: "We hiked along a few trails that were open (many have been closed due to covid maybe) and it was really fun, mostly flat hikes. Night time will bring about the coyotes and all their lovely howls, so be prepared for some noises come dark."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, many campsites receive regular maintenance. A reviewer at Lotus Camp states, "This camp is a short distance from the highway, There are some nice flat new sites that have been installed and it looks like more new ones are coming. This really is a great place for the family and all the family fun."
What you should know
Limited water access: Most equestrian camping areas have minimal facilities. At Cane Camp, drinking water is available but there are no hookups, showers, or electric connections. Campers should plan to bring sufficient water supplies for themselves and their horses.
Seasonal considerations: Weather and hunting seasons significantly impact camping experiences. According to Frankie W., Oak Camp Complex is "free though and is only about a 2 min drive [from Corral Camp]. No hook ups and we got our 43 ft 5th wheel in just fine. There are atvs out here they didn't bother us."
Bathroom facilities vary: Campgrounds offer different levels of bathroom amenities. Sippi's S. reports that at Lotus Camp, "Me and a few fellas went here for a weekend trip tent camping it has water and a restroom but no shower or electricity. This was a GREAT weekend guys trip."
Tips for camping with families
Bring insect protection: Forest camping requires preparation for bugs, particularly in warmer months. One camper at Brookeland Lake Sam Rayburn KOA advises, "Definitely bring bug spray because there were so many mosquitos near the campground. I left with a few pretty big welts."
Pack extra toilet supplies: Bathroom facilities may not be regularly serviced. At Brookeland Campground, a visitor noted, "Thankfully we came prepared and brought our own toilet paper, because by the 2nd night we were there, there was no toilet paper in the bathroom."
Check trail status before visits: Not all trails remain open year-round. Hannah L. mentions at Oak Camp Complex: "We hiked along a few trails that were open (many have been closed due to covid maybe) and it was really fun, mostly flat hikes."
Tips from RVers
Large rigs can access some areas: Despite primitive conditions, some campgrounds accommodate substantial RVs. At Oak Camp Complex, Frankie W. reports, "No hook ups and we got our 43 ft 5th wheel in just fine."
Consider campground terrain: Forest camping often means uneven ground. At Lotus Camp, a camper notes, "Each campsite has a fire ring, picnic table and lots of tree roots," indicating the natural terrain that may present challenges for leveling RVs.
Alternatives for more amenities: When full hookups are needed, consider private campgrounds. Kimberly N. describes Brookeland KOA: "This KOA has trails leading to a river which empties into Lake Rayburn. You do not have direct access to the lake itself. The campground has a couple of small ponds. The staff is excellent. We were given a tour of the property via golf cart."
Legend
