Beaver Dam Campground (Kisatchie National Forest, La)
4.44198 reviews194 Caney Lakes Park, Minden, LA 71055, USA
Beaver Dam Campground (Kisatchie National Forest, La)
$25.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Standard Electric sites are $25/night. Group Picnic Area rental is $50/night. Additional fees may apply for reservation services ($8 online, $9 by phone, $3 in-person). Discounts available for Interagency passes.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Upper Caney Lake, Beaver Dam Campground is a hidden gem within the sprawling Caney Lakes Recreation Complex. This peaceful retreat in Louisiana's only national forest beckons those seeking an escape from the everyday, where morning mist dances across the water and the only sounds are birdsong and gentle waves lapping against the shore. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring winding forest trails, or simply relaxing by your campfire under a canopy of stars, Beaver Dam delivers the authentic wilderness experience that modern adventurers crave.
Beaver Dam Campground offers diverse camping types, including tent camping, RV camping, and group picnic areas.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where nature and history intertwine at every turn. The campground's trail system includes the evocatively named Sugar Cane Trail, a living reminder of the agricultural heritage that once shaped this land before it returned to forest. As Louisiana's sole national forest, Kisatchie tells a powerful story of resilience and renewal—especially evident in the remarkable reforestation that followed a devastating tornado in the 1990s. Today, these regenerated woodlands stand as a testament to nature's ability to heal and humanity's commitment to preservation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Louisiana's dynamic seasons in all their glory at Beaver Dam, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Spring arrives with wildflowers and perfect camping weather, while autumn transforms the forest into a tapestry of warm colors under crisp, clear skies. Summer brings the full Southern experience—warm days ideal for swimming and water activities, punctuated by dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that refresh the forest. Even winter offers its charms, with mild temperatures perfect for hiking and cozy evenings around the campfire. Seasoned campers know that spring and fall offer the sweet spot of comfortable temperatures and stunning natural beauty.
ElevationAt a gentle elevation of 160 feet, Beaver Dam Campground spreads across an accessible, relatively flat landscape that makes it perfect for campers of all abilities. This modest elevation creates an ideal environment where ancient forests thrive and meandering trails invite exploration without demanding mountain-climbing stamina.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering bald cypresses rise from the water's edge like ancient sentinels, their knobby knees creating natural sculptures in the shallows. The campground is embraced by dense forests where majestic old-growth pines reach skyward, their canopy filtering sunlight into a soft, green glow. The crown jewels of this natural paradise are the pristine Caney Lakes—the 125-acre Upper Caney Lake at your doorstep and the expansive 250-acre Lower Caney Lake nearby—offering endless opportunities for paddling, fishing, and waterside contemplation.
Geological RegionDiscover the enchanting world of Kisatchie National Forest, where the classic Louisiana landscape unfolds in all its mysterious beauty. This unique geological region showcases a tapestry of bayous winding through the forest like liquid highways, groves of bald cypress creating cathedral-like spaces, and stands of old-growth pine that have witnessed centuries pass. It's a place where water and land merge in fascinating ways, creating diverse ecosystems that support an incredible array of wildlife and offer visitors a true taste of the Deep South's natural wonders.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySeveral campsites are wheelchair accessible, and picnic tables in some sites are designed for wheelchair use. However, reviews highlight uneven terrain and narrow roads, which may present challenges for accessibility.
Sites SizeSites are spacious with ample room for large rigs, including 45’ fifth wheels. Many reviews praise the generous size of the campsites.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are well-spaced apart, offering good privacy. The natural understory between sites is maintained to enhance seclusion.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 15 is ideal for water views and proximity to facilities. Site 17 is praised for privacy and unobstructed views, especially for stargazing.
Best CampsitesSites 15, 16, and 17 are highly recommended for their lake views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite fits up to eight campers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features large, well-spaced sites, including both back-in and pull-through sites. Sites are paved, with gravel tent pads and asphalt parking pads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: January 1 - December 31. Reservations for individual sites start on June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is limited to reservations made less than 2 days in advance online or via Recreation.gov. Self-check-in available with cash or check payment.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or through the contact center. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (less than 1 day before check-in for campsites) also forfeit the first night's fee. No cancellations are allowed after check-in.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
A wide array of recreational activities is available at Beaver Dam Campground, including hiking, fishing, biking, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. The Sugar Cane National Recreation Trail and Lost Man Loop trail provide scenic paths for hikers and bikers. Visitors frequently engage in lake fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish. Seasonal swimming and boating are popular activities.
Hiking
The Sugar Cane National Recreation Trail spans 5.7 miles and accommodates hikers and bikers with varied terrain. Additionally, the Lost Man Loop offers a 2-mile trail. Reviews frequently praise these trails for their scenic beauty but note occasional maintenance issues such as overgrown vegetation and fallen trees.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Upper Caney Lake, with opportunities to catch bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and sandbass. Some areas are not accessible for fishing due to vegetation or restrictions, but overall fishing conditions are described positively.Swimming
Swimming is listed as an available activity, with designated beach and swimming areas. However, one review notes that the lower lake is closed after Labor Day.Biking
The trails within Beaver Dam Campground accommodate mountain biking, particularly the Sugar Cane Trail. Terrain varies, offering opportunities for all skill levels.Boating
Boating activities, including tubing and kayaking, are supported. Upper Caney Lake offers boat ramps for easy access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with sightings of deer, squirrels, and other local fauna. Several reviews mention the peacefulness of observing wildlife in a quiet environment.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are available at Upper Caney Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire pits. Visitors are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCell service is weak or unavailable for most carriers, including Verizon. Roads are narrow and require caution for larger vehicles. Wildlife includes snakes and insects.
Active alertsNo current alerts.
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are available at Minden, including police, hospital, and fire department, approximately 5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available throughout the campground, but reviewers suggest improvements such as introducing recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on the shores of Upper Caney Lake, providing access to fishing, boating, and swimming.
Common complaintsBathrooms are outdated and occasionally out of order. Cell phone coverage is poor. Some sites are not level, posing challenges for RVs.
HostHosts Larry and Wendy are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness. Hosts provide assistance with reservations and camper troubleshooting.
Campground Map
194 Caney Lakes Park, Minden, LA 71055, USA
Driving directionsFrom Minden, take Louisiana 159 north to Caney Lake Road (Webster Parish Road 111). Turn left on Caney Lake Road and continue 2 miles to the recreation area entrance.
Accessible via paved roads. The entry drive is narrow in some areas and requires caution with larger RVs due to tight turns.Nearby places
Minden: 5 miles (approx. 10 minutes), Shreveport: 40 miles (approx. 45 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies such as groceries, camping equipment, and fuel are available in Minden, located 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
198 reviews
Beaver Dam Campground (Kisatchie National Forest, La) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the spacious campsites, peaceful surroundings, and helpful campground hosts. However, common complaints include outdated restrooms, poor cell phone service, and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 198 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention spacious and private campsites, clean facilities, helpful camp hosts, and scenic lake views. Many visitors describe the campground as peaceful and well-maintained.
Based on 198 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include poor cell phone service, outdated and insufficient restroom facilities, and narrow access roads. Some reviews also mention the need for improved trail maintenance and better...
Based on 198 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing extra firewood and supplies due to limited availability on-site, planning for poor cell service, and reserving lakefront spots for the best views.
Based on 198 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that spring and fall are the most pleasant seasons for camping, with cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer reviews frequently mention high humidity and heat, while winter...
Based on 198 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The sunsets were my favorite; you won't be disappointed! Also, if you're into fungi and you're visiting around a wet season, get ready to mushroom hunt!" 2. "Very clean campground and the host...
Based on 198 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 16 is highly recommended for its lake view and proximity to facilities. Site 17 is noted for its panoramic lake view and privacy. Site 13 is described as spacious and level, with ample tree...
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Accessibility Features
Reviews mention accessible picnic tables and paths but note challenges with narrow roads and uneven terrain.
Based on 198 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, with spacious sites suitable for dogs and cats. Visitors frequently mention their pets enjoying the walks and views.
Based on 198 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025