Red Bluff Camp
4.678 reviewsnull
Red Bluff Camp
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
No fee required for camping at Red Bluff.
About this campground
Escape into the wilderness at Red Bluff Camp, where adventure begins with a scenic quarter-mile hike through the National Red Dirt Wildlife Management Preserve. This pristine primitive camping area beckons those seeking an authentic outdoor experience along the tranquil shores of Kisatchie Bayou. With only the essentials—vault toilets and trash receptacles—and no running water, Red Bluff Camp invites you to disconnect from modern conveniences and reconnect with nature's raw beauty. Here, the absence of amenities becomes the presence of possibility, where every sunset is earned and every sunrise feels like a personal discovery.
Red Bluff Camp caters to primitive camping enthusiasts. It is a walk-in, tent-only campsite situated in a remote location within Kisatchie National Forest.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the storied Kisatchie National Forest, Red Bluff Camp stands as a testament to Louisiana's commitment to preserving its wild spaces. This corner of the state's natural heritage offers visitors a chance to experience the same untamed beauty that has captivated generations of outdoorsmen, naturalists, and adventure seekers. The surrounding wildlife management preserve continues a legacy of conservation that ensures future generations can discover the magic of Louisiana's backcountry.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Louisiana's dynamic seasons in their full glory at Red Bluff Camp. Winter transforms the bayou into a crisp wonderland, occasionally dusted with rare Southern snow. As spring awakens the forest, moderate temperatures create perfect camping conditions amid blooming wildflowers and birdsong. Summer arrives with characteristic Southern warmth, bringing sultry days that peak between 90-95°F—ideal for early morning hikes and lazy afternoon swims. Fall paints the forest in warm hues while offering the year's most comfortable camping weather, making it a favorite season for outdoor enthusiasts.
ElevationThe camp rests within the characteristic bayou country of central Louisiana, where ancient waterways have carved gentle contours through the forested landscape. This classic Southern terrain offers the perfect blend of woodland hiking and waterfront relaxation, creating diverse ecosystems within easy exploring distance.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting wilderness of Kisatchie National Forest, where towering pines and hardwoods create a living cathedral around your campsite. The star attraction, Kisatchie Bayou, meanders through the landscape like a liquid ribbon, reflecting sky and forest in its dark waters. As darkness falls, the forest comes alive with a symphony of wild sounds—the haunting calls of owls, the rustle of foraging coyotes, and the whisper of bat wings overhead. During daylight hours, keep watch for delicate false foxglove blooms adding splashes of color to the understory, while countless insects create the authentic soundtrack of a thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionRed Bluff Camp sits within the remarkable National Red Dirt Wildlife Management Preserve, where the iconic iron-rich soils give the landscape its distinctive character. This unique geological setting within Kisatchie National Forest showcases the meeting point of upland forests and lowland bayous, creating a diverse tapestry of habitats. The ancient Kisatchie Bayou has spent millennia shaping this land, leaving behind a network of waterways and wetlands that support an incredible array of plant and animal life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information is provided about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThere are about four decent tent spots near the bathroom area, with additional sites along the trail toward the bayou.
Sites PrivacySites offer moderate privacy; reviewers mention not encroaching on fellow campers given the small number of available spots.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring a hammock bug net and insect repellent. Choose spots closer to the bayou for added privacy or near the parking area for convenience.
Best CampsitesAccording to user reviews, there are approximately 4 decent tent spots near the parking area and a few closer to the bayou.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified
Check-out
Not specified
Stay Limit
Free camping allowed for up to 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Approximately 4 tent spots for individual campers without encroaching.
Groups
No group camping facilities are explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutPrimitive walk-in sites; approximately 4 near parking area and others near Kisatchie Bayou.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are required; the facility operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable; no reservation system in place.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Red Bluff Camp focuses on immersive outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing, enabling visitors to connect with the natural environment. The campground is located in the Kisatchie National Forest, adding to the allure of exploring the wilderness.
Hiking
The campground features well-trodden trails leading to the Kisatchie Bayou. A cleared trail, rated as easy, allows for a 15-minute hike from the site to the bayou.Fishing
Fishing is possible at the Kisatchie Bayou, which is accessible via the hiking trail. While one reviewer noted it seemed like a good fishing spot, no specifics about fish species or fishing quality were mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter-specific recreational activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are not applicable due to the region's climate.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted; campers are reminded to extinguish fires before leaving.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include mosquito infestations (noted by multiple reviews), soft spots on dirt roads, wildlife encounters (e.g., bats, coyotes), and insects. Rain may lead to tent leaks.
Active alertsNo active alerts or advisories noted.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Kisatchie Ranger District (Address: 229 Dogwood Park Road, Provencal, LA 71468, Phone: (318)472-1840, Hours: Monday-Friday, 7am-3:30pm)
Good to know
Peak season datesNot applicable; the campground operates year-round without specific peak seasons.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available for waste disposal, but no recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to Kisatchie Bayou; trail leads directly to it for fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include mosquito problems and lack of potable water.
HostNo host presence mentioned.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom the intersection of I-49 and Highway 6 (Natchitoches), drive west on Hwy 6 for 4 miles. Turn left (south) on Louisiana Hwy 117 and proceed 16 miles to Forest Highway 59, Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway. Turn left (east) on FH 59 and go 4.5 miles to Forest Road 345. Turn left (north) on FR 345 and go 2.5 miles to the campground sign. Park and walk 0.25 mile to the camp area.
Access roads are dirt and gravel once turning off Par Rd 830. 4-wheel drive is not required, but some areas may be soft, requiring caution.Nearby places
Nearest city: Provencal, LA (approx. 30 miles from the campground)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely in Provencal, LA, approximately 30 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
8 reviews
Red Bluff Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Red Bluff Camp generally receives praise for its primitive charm and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the sense of solitude and connection with nature, though the lack of potable water and prevalence of bugs are commonly cited drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the serene and primitive atmosphere, clean vault toilets, and proximity to the Kisatchie Bayou. The trails were found to be well-maintained, and the campsite's remote location allowed...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Many reviewers mentioned the high prevalence of mosquitoes, the lack of potable water, and the primitive state of the site as challenges. Some highlighted that the dirt and gravel roads leading to...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water, as none is available on-site. Bug spray is a must to deal with mosquitoes. If camping in a hammock, a bug net is highly recommended. Reviewers also suggested arriving during...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campsite appears to be popular during spring and fall when the weather is mild, although the presence of mosquitoes is consistent. Summer visits may require additional preparation for heat and...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The simplicity of the campground, with limited amenities, encourages campers to immerse themselves fully in the untamed wilderness of Kisatchie National Forest.' - Digital Sparks
2. 'Make sure to...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campsite features about four decent tent spots near the bathroom area. Additional sites are available along the trail toward the bayou.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically address experiences with pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025