Fullerton Recreation Area
4.4415 reviewsnull
Fullerton Recreation Area
$0.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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
Based on user reviews, fees are reported as $5/night or free for day stays. "Grills, covered picnic area, bathrooms, and fishing" are included. Payments may be made through an honor system or Scan and Pay feature on the Recreation.gov mobile app if cellular service permits.
About this campground
Step back in time at Fullerton Recreation Area, where nature has reclaimed the remnants of a once-thriving sawmill town frozen in time since 1927. This captivating destination seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with historical discovery, inviting campers to pitch their tents among the whispers of the past. Modern comforts meet rustic charm with newly constructed bathhouse facilities featuring hot showers and flush toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay as you explore miles of trails, cast your line in peaceful waters, and wander through the haunting beauty of industrial ruins slowly being embraced by the forest.
Camping options focus on tent and RV setups, with no mention of cabins or group-specific areas.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of history at Fullerton, where the abandoned sawmill town stands as a testament to the South's industrial heritage. Once one of the region's largest mill operations, this ghost town was abruptly abandoned in 1927, leaving behind a fascinating time capsule of early 20th-century life. Today's visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins along designated trails, discovering crumbling foundations, rusted machinery, and structures that tell the story of the workers and families who once called this bustling mill town home.
Weather and SeasonsFullerton enjoys a temperate climate that makes it a year-round destination, with temperatures typically ranging from crisp 43°F mornings to comfortable 60°F afternoons. The area's characteristically dry air and predominantly clear skies create perfect conditions for stargazing and outdoor exploration. While the campground welcomes visitors in all seasons, the cooler months offer the most pleasant camping experience, with refreshing temperatures ideal for hiking through the historical ruins and enjoying campfire evenings without the intensity of summer heat.
ElevationThe gentle terrain of Fullerton Recreation Area provides accessible camping and hiking opportunities for visitors of all abilities, with trails that wind through the historical site without significant elevation challenges.
Natural Features and SceneryNature and history intertwine beautifully at Fullerton, where forest trails lead adventurers through a landscape of contrasts. Ancient trees tower over the weathered remains of the sawmill era, creating a photographer's paradise of texture and time. The trails, adorned with morning dewdrops on countless spiderwebs, wind through dense woodland that has reclaimed the industrial past. Pack your bug spray and lace up sturdy boots to fully experience this unique environment where moss-covered ruins peek through verdant undergrowth, and wildlife has made homes in the forgotten corners of human ambition.
Geological RegionNestled within the diverse ecosystem of Kisatchie National Forest, Fullerton Recreation Area showcases the natural beauty of Louisiana's piney woods region. The landscape tells two stories: one of ancient geological forces that shaped the rolling terrain and created the lakes that dot the area, and another of human enterprise that briefly transformed this wilderness into an industrial center. Today, the forest has reclaimed its dominion, offering visitors a unique glimpse into how nature adapts and thrives, creating a living museum where towering pines shade both hiking trails and historical artifacts.
Campsite details
AccessibilityUser reviews mention clean camping areas and new amenities, which may suggest attention to accessibility. However, no explicit information is provided for disabled campers.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews highlight quiet areas with limited traffic, contributing to a secluded camping environment.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and its Scan and Pay feature on-site, provided cellular service is available.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis, and walk-up payments can be made using cash or the Scan and Pay feature.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and may also subtract the first night's recreation use fee if canceled after midnight the day before check-in. Reservations cannot be modified or canceled after the check-in date unless specific facility rules apply.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Most activities revolve around hiking, fishing, and nature exploration. Limited options for boating are available.
Hiking
Jonathan McNair describes a 1.5-mile and 0.5-mile loop trail that leads to historical ruins from Fullerton sawmill town. Another user highlights trails with light traffic but suggests carrying a stick for spiderwebs and wearing sturdy shoes.Fishing
Fishing is mentioned positively in user reviews. David Burnett states, 'Me and my wife and the grandkids go fishing there every chance we get.' Johnny Knoxville adds, 'Fishing is free, and only trolling motors and non-motorized boats are allowed.'Boating
Only trolling motors and non-motorized boats are permitted in the lake, as noted by Johnny Knoxville.Wildlife viewing
User HD157 mentions 'watching gators,' which indicates some wildlife viewing opportunities.Cultural and Educational Programs
Jonathan McNair notes historical trails showing remains of old sawmill town, providing educational context.Water Sports
Limited to non-motorized boating activities like canoeing and paddle boating.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Policies around campfires are not mentioned in source materials or reviews.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention spiderwebs on trails and the presence of alligators in the lake. Navigation challenges in remote areas with limited cellular service are also noted.
Active alertsnull
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
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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo specific facilities mentioned for trash and recycling in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresFullerton Recreation Area has a lake suitable for fishing and boating. Only trolling motors and non-motorized boats are allowed.
Common complaintsSome reviews highlight overgrown trails, the lack of electricity and water hookups at campsites, and limited activities beyond fishing.
HostOne review describes the camp host as "amazing" and "friendly."
Campground Map
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Driving directionsnull
Access to Fullerton Recreation Area is described as requiring a physical arrival at the campground for site purchase. Some reviews mention isolated trails and areas with limited or no cellular service, suggesting that navigation to the site may require preparation for remote conditions.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.4
15 reviews
Fullerton Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are generally positive, highlighting peacefulness, affordability, and natural attractions like hiking trails and fishing spots. Some users expressed concerns about overgrown trails and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Affordable rates ($5/night), clean facilities (new bathhouse), and quiet camping atmosphere with limited traffic. Good fishing and hiking options.
Based on 15 reviewsCommon Concerns
Overgrown hiking trails (spiderwebs), no electricity or sewer hookups, and limited cell phone reception.
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray, a stick for spiderwebs, sturdy hiking shoes, and water. Be prepared for limited cell service and no on-site electricity.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter and early spring seem to be favored seasons due to cooler weather for hiking, as noted in weather data trends, which show dry humidity and moderate temperatures.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
Jonathan McNair: 'A newly constructed bathhouse opened a week ago. It was very clean and had sturdy locks.' Pauline Love: 'Accessible by trails that see little traffic. Look for the lattice road near...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or areas identified in reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
No direct reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific review mentions pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025