There are many perks to living in Louisiana, and one of them is that our mild winters enable us to enjoy outdoor adventures year-round. For nature lovers, there’s no better place to explore than the Kisatchie National Forest, Louisiana’s only National Forest. The forest sprawls out for over 600,000 acres across seven parishes, and there’s one little lake hiding within the forest that’s ideal for camping in Louisiana.
When you’re ready to experience true tranquility in a secluded spot, the Valentine Lake Recreation Complex is just what you need.
TXTraveler/Google
Surrounded by towering pines and rolling hills, the recreation center hugs Valentine Lake, a beautiful 46-acre lake with stunning views.
TXTraveler/Google
There are 14 campsites nestled around the Northshore campground, and six of them offer beautiful shoreline views.
DeCarlos/Google Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, so be sure to bring some marshmallows for roasting!
There are restrooms and trash containers at the campground, too.
DeCarlos/Google Everything you need for an unplugged weekend of serenity!
Once you set up your tent, you’re ready to go exploring.
Chad Babineaux/Google
The 1.8-mile Valentine Lake Trail is a great place to start.
TxTraveler/Google The trail weaves you throughout the terrain, hugging the lake for a bit before traversing deeper into the forest.
After you’ve explored the area on foot, perhaps you’ll want to take on the water!
Michea Ingraham/Google To keep the area as peaceful as possible, no motorized boats are allowed on the lake, but you are welcome to drop a kayak in and explore the lake from an entirely new perspective.
Visit the park’s website for more information. Have you ever been camping at Valentine Lake? Share your experience with us in the comments!
TXTraveler/Google
DeCarlos/Google
Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, so be sure to bring some marshmallows for roasting!
Everything you need for an unplugged weekend of serenity!
Chad Babineaux/Google
TxTraveler/Google
The trail weaves you throughout the terrain, hugging the lake for a bit before traversing deeper into the forest.
Michea Ingraham/Google
To keep the area as peaceful as possible, no motorized boats are allowed on the lake, but you are welcome to drop a kayak in and explore the lake from an entirely new perspective.
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Address: Valentine Lake Recreation Complex, Camping and Day Use, 282-D Valentine North Shore Kisatchie National Forest, Elmer, LA 71424, USA
