Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail, near Alexandria, Louisiana, is a unique spot for those who appreciate the great outdoors and a bit of adventure. This area offers primitive camping with a chance to immerse yourself in nature, featuring small trails around the lake and access to the Wild Azalea Trail, which stretches nearly 18 miles.

Campers have shared that the fishing here is fantastic, making it a great choice for those looking to cast a line. Just a heads up, swimming isn’t recommended due to the presence of alligators and snapping turtles. Visitors have also mentioned the well-maintained trails, though be prepared for some ups and downs along the way. 

The location is open year-round, and you’ll find amenities like drinking water and picnic tables, but remember to pack out what you pack in. As one camper noted, “It’s a cool place to spend a weekend,” especially in the cooler months when sleeping in a hot tent is more comfortable. Whether you’re hiking in or just enjoying the scenery, Valentine Lake offers a refreshing escape into nature.

Camping is permitted adjacent to the trail, but campsites must be established at least 30 feet away from the trail center line. This is primitive camping - no amenities.

Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail

Gardner, LA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Gardner is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Gardner, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Gardner

The Best Camping Near Gardner, Louisiana

Open all year 

Primitive 

The Wild Azalea Trail is south west of Alexandria, Louisiana on the edge of the Valentine Lake Recreation Area. There is a trail head with parking on the grass, nicely mowed but if it has rained it could be muddy. Primitive camping is permitted adjacent to the trail but campsites must be at least 30 feet from the trail center line.

 Pack it in, Pack it out 

LNT 

BTYFI 

NO FIRES 

Travel safe

Wild

Its a really nice place to camp. Very small but well kept up

Valintine lake 

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. The trail itself is great and pretty well maintained. Be prepared for plenty of ups and downs and some rough terrain. There are adequate running streams to get water for filtering. From camp I went another 1.5 miles to the Evangeline primitive area parking lot (where there is a pit toilet), some beautiful views along that stretch. I would definitely do it again, but with a lighter pack and not in 90 degree weather!

Great primitive camping!

This a a cool place to spend a weekend. There is both primitive and fixed campsites.you have a couple Small trails in and around Valentine lake, or you caan hop on wild azeala trail and hike it. Its just short of 18 miles start to finish. Wouldn't recommend swimming in that lake. Lots of Gators and big snapping turtles. . Great fishing tho.. for me i enjoy middle to late October when it's cooler for sleeping in teepee hot tent..

Photos of Valentine Lake Wild Azalea Trail

Real photos from real campers