Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex, Camping/Day Use
4.4415 reviewsFullerton Lake Recreation Complex, Kisatchie National Forest
Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex, Camping/Day Use
$15.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fee is $15 per night. Group Use Area ranges between $35-$75 per day.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Louisiana's pine forests, Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex invites visitors to discover a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and tranquil relaxation. Cast a line from the peaceful shoreline, paddle across the mirror-like waters in your kayak or canoe, or explore winding trails that beckon hikers and cyclists through towering pines. Modern amenities including flush restrooms and fire rings complement the natural setting, while shaded picnic areas provide the ideal spot for family gatherings and lazy afternoon meals.
The complex primarily supports tent camping, RV sites, and group camping. However, all camping is currently unavailable due to partial site closure.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex, where the haunting ruins of the historic Fullerton Sawmill stand as silent witnesses to Louisiana's timber boom era. These weathered remnants, officially recognized by the National Register of Historic Places since 1986, tell the story of a once-thriving mill community that helped shape the region's identity. Wander among the moss-covered foundations and imagine the bustling life that once filled these woods with the sounds of industry and progress.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Louisiana's changing seasons at Fullerton Lake. Winter brings crisp, frosty mornings with occasional dustings of snow transforming the forest into a wonderland (approximately 26% chance during peak winter weeks). As spring unfolds, the forest bursts to life before summer arrives with its signature Southern warmth and humidity, when dew points can climb to a sultry 74°F in late June. Each season paints the landscape in different hues, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Fullerton Lake offers comfortable exploration for visitors of all abilities, with subtle changes in elevation that create diverse ecosystems and scenic viewpoints throughout the complex.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere history meets nature, Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex enchants visitors with its remarkable dual personality. The evocative ruins of the Fullerton Sawmill community emerge from a sea of verdant forest, creating an almost mystical atmosphere where weathered brick and timber blend seamlessly with towering pines and native hardwoods. Lush understory vegetation carpets the forest floor, while the serene lake reflects the canopy above, creating a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.
Geological RegionSituated within the magnificent Kisatchie National Forest, Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex showcases the unique geological tapestry of Louisiana's piney woods region. This enchanting landscape tells the story of an ancient seabed transformed over millennia into rolling hills clothed in longleaf pine savannas and mixed hardwood forests. The complex serves as a gateway to exploring the broader Kisatchie wilderness, where Southern mill town ruins punctuate a lush forest landscape that has reclaimed its domain, creating a fascinating intersection of human history and natural resilience.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground description does not mention specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeNull
Sites PrivacyNull
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome reviews recommend sturdy shoes, bug spray, and a stick for spiderwebs on trails.
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
06:00 a.m.
Check-out
12:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
The group use area is available for $35-75 per day, but details about capacity or vehicle limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNo specific layout is provided beyond picnic and camping areas.
Open and Closed SeasonCurrently partially closed. Camping is not allowed; other facilities like the boat launch, pavilion, interpretive trail, and restrooms are open.
Reservation PlatformsNo platforms for reservations are mentioned in the authoritative sources.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is temporarily closed, impacting walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyRules regarding cancellation have not been provided.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The recreation complex provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, non-motorized boating, mountain biking, picnicking, and exploring historical ruins. The interpretive trail and Fullerton Mill Trail offer engaging experiences for visitors.
Hiking
The site includes the 1.6-mile Fullerton Mill Trail, featuring historical ruins and foundations of a large sawmill operation in the South. User Pauline Love noted, "Trails that see little traffic... bring a stick for spiderwebs (they are everywhere)." Jonathan McNair highlighted, "The walking trail has a long (1.5 mile) and short (0.5 mile) loop."Fishing
Fishing is available at the lake and pond. User David Burnett shared, "Me and my wife and the grandkids go fishing there every chance we get."Biking
The site offers mountain biking trails, but no detailed information is provided about terrain or difficulty levels.Boating
Boating is limited to non-motorized boats and trolling motors. User Johnny Knoxville remarked, "Only trolling motors and non-motorized boats allowed."Cultural and Educational Programs
The interpretive trail provides educational opportunities about the historical significance of the site.Water Sports
Boating opportunities are limited to non-motorized activities like kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings are available for campfires.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews mention spiderwebs, bugs, and gators near the lake.
Active alertsPartially closed; camping facilities currently unavailable.
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Calcasieu Ranger District, 9912 Highway 28 West, Boyce, LA 71409, Phone: 318-793-9427.
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingAvailable trash receptacles for waste disposal, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground features a pond and a lake for bank fishing and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include overgrown trails and lack of hookups.
HostA camp host is mentioned in user reviews but details about availability or services are not provided.
Campground Map
Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex, Kisatchie National Forest
Driving directionsFrom Leesville, take U.S. Hwy 171 south 7 miles to LA Hwy 10, turn left and proceed 18 miles to Hwy 399. Turn left on Hwy 399 and proceed 5 miles to the signed entrance road on the left to Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex.
The campground is accessible via major highways, including U.S. Hwy 171 and LA Hwy 10. The entrance road is signed, but some sections may be rural and lack clear signage.Nearby places
Leesville (7 miles south from U.S. Hwy 171)
Nearby cities beyond are null.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies location is null.
Camper Reviews
4.4
15 reviews
Fullerton Lake Recreation Complex, Camping/Day Use is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present a mix of positive experiences related to fishing, hiking, and quiet camping, while noting issues such as overgrown trails and site closures. The campground is described as peaceful and affordable.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise Fullerton Lake for its affordability, historical significance, fishing opportunities, and quiet environment. Jonathan McNair wrote, "Honestly, this place is better than I expected." Rosa...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common critiques include overgrown trails, lack of electricity and dump stations, and partial site closures. HD157 mentioned, "The trail is very overgrown and other than that there isn't much else to...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray, water, and sturdy shoes for hiking. Users also recommend exploring the historical ruins and engaging in fishing and boating activities.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the site is generally peaceful and less crowded, but activities may be limited due to trail conditions and site closures. Seasonal weather data indicates that spring and fall may...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Pauline Love: "On hubby and mine's top ten and did I mention FREE." Ron Remondini: "Great price. Water available. No electricity or dump." Daphne Nolen Kingan: "Boy Scout campout." Jonathan McNair:...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews do not provide specific site numbers or rankings.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
Null
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed. User reviews do not elaborate further on pet-related facilities or experiences.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025