Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area
4.5632 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
$2 - $39/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
15 campsites
Season
null
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$2 - $39/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
15 campsites
Season
null
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area
$2.00 - $39.00 / night
Campsite Fees
"From user reviews: $2 per vehicle per day at fee station (from Mark Johnson); $39 per reservation online (Annette Shifflett). Fees likely depend on...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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What Campers Say
4.56
Top-Rated
Based on 32 reviews
144 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanhikingwell-maintained
Some mention
noisemosquitoestrain
"Overall, the Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area is highly regarded for its natural beauty, tranquility, and suitability for primitive camping. The average sentiment rating for campgrounds is a high 4.375, with many users recommending the site for its peaceful and family-friendly environment."
Fees & Passes at Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area
$2 - $39/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: null
Cancellation: "Cancellation policies include a $10 fee for changes or cancellations, forfeiture of first night's f...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official null website.
Best Time to Camp at Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area
Experience nature's changing moods throughout the year at Kisatchie Bayou, where moderate temperatures and predominantly clear skies create ideal camping conditions during peak seasons. While summer brings warmth and lush greenery, it also awakens the local mosquito population – pack your bug spray for comfort. Winter months offer cooler temperatures and fewer insects, though visitors should be aware that occasional military training exercises from nearby installations may punctuate the otherwise tranquil soundscape.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: null
- Current Alerts: null
About Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area
Tucked within the heart of Kisatchie National Forest, Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area offers an authentic wilderness escape where 15-20 primitive campsites nestle among ancient pines and winding waterways. Each site comes equipped with fire pits and picnic tables perfect for evening gatherings, while vault restrooms provide essential amenities without compromising the natural setting. Families and their four-legged companions will find a welcoming atmosphere where the only sounds are crackling campfires and the gentle flow of the bayou.
This campground is focused on primitive camping, with no modern amenities such as electric or water hookups. It caters to tent campers and offers a basic, natural atmosphere.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's changing moods throughout the year at Kisatchie Bayou, where moderate temperatures and predominantly clear skies create ideal camping conditions during peak seasons. While summer brings warmth and lush greenery, it also awakens the local mosquito population – pack your bug spray for comfort. Winter months offer cooler temperatures and fewer insects, though visitors should be aware that occasional military training exercises from nearby installations may punctuate the otherwise tranquil soundscape.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a hidden gem where crystal-clear streams meander through limestone formations, creating natural swimming holes and peaceful reflection spots. Sandy shores invite barefoot exploration while the surrounding forest canopy provides shelter for diverse wildlife – from deer grazing at dawn to songbirds serenading at dusk. The bayou itself serves as the area's centerpiece, its dark waters reflecting towering pines and offering glimpses of local aquatic life beneath the surface.
Geological RegionSet within the sprawling Kisatchie National Forest, this recreation area showcases Louisiana's unique natural heritage where southern bayous meet upland forests. The landscape tells a story written in water and stone, where ancient streams have carved pathways through the terrain, creating a diverse ecosystem that supports both wetland and forest habitats. Miles of trails wind through this geological tapestry, offering intimate encounters with the region's distinctive bayou country character.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has handrails for stairs, which were added during recent upgrades. No other specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeStandard-sized campsites suitable for tent camping are available. Some sites are close to the parking area, while others require a longer walk.
Sites PrivacyCamp sites are described as relatively private, with some spaced-out options available further from the main lot.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Sites near parking are convenient, while those farther from trails offer more privacy and scenic views."
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
Group camping is not specifically mentioned in the information provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout"Primitive camping sites spaced apart for privacy, varying proximity to trails and parking areas."
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platforms"Reservations can be made via Recreation.gov or paid at the campground using Scan and Pay via the Recreation.gov app."
Walk-in Availability"First-come, first-served basis confirmed by both authoritative sources and user reviews."
Cancellation Policy"Cancellation policies include a $10 fee for changes or cancellations, forfeiture of first night's fees for late cancellations."
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife observation. Multiple user reviews highlight the area's natural beauty, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The campground provides access to nearby trails, and the bayou itself is a focal point for activities such as swimming and fishing.
Hiking
Numerous trails are accessible from the campground, suitable for walking, horseback riding, and ATV use. One user noted 'miles and miles of trails,' and another described the Longleaf Vista Trail, which has markers for various points of interest.Fishing
Fishing is a notable activity here, with users reporting catches of catfish and bass. The bayou provides clean and clear waters for fishing.Swimming
The bayou is described as 'clean' and 'clear,' offering a great spot for swimming. Shallow areas are suitable for kids, while deeper spots allow for more advanced swimming.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with users mentioning sightings of deer and other animals. The natural setting allows for great opportunities to observe local fauna.Beach activities
Campers describe sandy areas along the bayou, ideal for sunbathing and casual exploration. One review mentioned 'soft soft sand' that feels amazing.Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible, but cold weather (30-degree temperatures) was noted by one reviewer. No specific winter activities are highlighted.Water Sports
The bayou's clear waters allow for casual swimming and wading. Other water sports are not mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- "Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits at each site."
- "Quiet hours observed between 9 PM and 8 AM, as noted by user reviews."
Hazards
General hazards"Hazards include lack of drinking water and vault bathrooms. Seasonal mosquitoes and occasional military training noise were noted by users."
Active alertsnull
Weather at Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area
59
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available near the parking lot. Hooks are also provided at campsites to keep trash off the ground.
Proximity to water features"Direct proximity to Kisatchie Bayou offering swimming, fishing, and scenic views."
Common complaints"Common complaints include mosquitoes, lack of potable water, and occasional noise from nearby military training."
Host"No host information provided in authoritative content or reviews."
Campground Map
Driving directions"Directions are unclear, but GPS coordinates to the campground are provided: Latitude 31.445001 and Longitude -93.093001."
"Accessibility is not clearly defined, but the area is remote and cellular service is limited."Nearby places
null
Nearby supplies
null
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.6
32 reviews
Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Area is highly regarded for its natural beauty, tranquility, and suitability for primitive camping. The average sentiment rating for campgrounds is a high 4.375, with many users recommending the site for its peaceful and family-friendly environment.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the well-maintained and clean campsites, scenic bayou views, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and hiking. The lack of cell...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, occasional noise from a nearby military training facility, and issues with cleanliness due to other visitors leaving trash behind. Mosquitoes have...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring their own supply of drinking water and mosquito repellent. For those new to the area, it is recommended to download offline maps due to the lack of cell phone service....
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring is noted as an ideal time to visit due to cooler weather and fewer visitors, while summer can be more crowded and warmer. Winter camping is an option but requires preparation for cold...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Primitive camping at its best. The stream is beautiful, we swam in it, bathed in it, and even caught enough fish for dinner.' (Justin McCarty)
2. 'Excellent camping spot. Each site has a fire...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The middle parking area has 'ONE drive-up parking site,' while other campsites are walk-in only. Some reviewers recommend more secluded sites further from the parking lot for better privacy.
Based on 32 reviewsAccessibility Features
The addition of handrails to stairs was noted as an accessibility improvement. No other specific reviews addressing accessibility were found.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, and it is described as dog-friendly in several reviews.
Based on 32 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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