Bodcau Campgrounds

Nestled within the vast and diverse landscape of the Bayou Bodcau Dam and Reservoir project area, Bodcau Campgrounds, officially known as the Tom Merrill Recreation Area, offers a tranquil and engaging outdoor experience for residents across Northwest Louisiana. More than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent, this well-maintained campground provides a serene escape into nature, making it a beloved spot for family get-togethers, weekend adventures, and extended stays. It's a testament to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Louisiana proudly offers, inviting you to unwind amidst shady trees and engaging activities.

Bodcau Campgrounds has earned a reputation among locals for its pleasant atmosphere and practical amenities. Visitors frequently praise the "very shady" campsites, offering a welcome respite from the Louisiana sun, and the "clean and well-sized spots," with many featuring concrete pads. The grounds are consistently described as "enjoyable," highlighting the peaceful environment. It's a go-to spot for "family get-togethers," with the "playground clean and close to the camp sites" providing entertainment for the younger ones. Many reviewers express a sentiment of wondering "why it took us so long to stay a weekend" after previously only visiting for day-use activities, signaling a high level of satisfaction and a strong desire to return. While some minor challenges like water connection or dump station access have been noted, the overwhelming consensus points to Bodcau Campgrounds as a charming and highly recommendable local outdoor destination that promises a relaxing and fun experience for all.

Bodcau Campgrounds, also known as Tom Merrill Recreation Area, is located at 843-897 Bodcau Dam Rd, Haughton, LA 71037, USA. This address places it within the larger Bayou Bodcau Dam and Reservoir project, a significant natural area managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Haughton is a community situated east of Shreveport-Bossier City, offering convenient accessibility while still providing a sense of being away from the urban hustle.

For residents across Louisiana, especially those in the northern parishes, reaching Bodcau Campgrounds is straightforward. From Interstate 20, a major east-west artery, visitors typically take Exit 33 and head north on State Route 157. A turn onto Bodcau Dam Road then leads directly to the campground. This excellent road access ensures a smooth journey, making it a feasible destination for weekend trips or longer camping excursions from cities like Shreveport, Bossier City, Monroe, and even those further afield. The proximity to Haughton and Bossier City means that essential services, including grocery stores, fuel, and other conveniences, are just a short drive away, blending the tranquility of a natural setting with the practicality of nearby amenities. This strategic location makes Bodcau Campgrounds a highly accessible and appealing option for Louisiana locals seeking a refreshing outdoor experience without extensive travel.

Services Offered:

• 20 developed campsites with electric hookups (20/30/50 AMP available).
• Water hookups at campsites.
• Concrete RV pads at many sites, providing level parking.
• Picnic tables, fire pits, grills, and lantern hangers at each campsite.
• Modern bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers (though condition may vary based on some reviews).
• Designated playground area for children.
• Outdoor exercise equipment.
• Dump station located near the park exit.
• Game cleaning station.
• Disc golf course.
• Access to hiking and biking trails.
• Fishing opportunities in Bodcau Creek and Ivan Lake.
• Access to the larger Bayou Bodcau Wildlife Management Area for various outdoor activities.
• Campground Host available on-site for assistance.
• Pet-friendly policies (pets allowed, typically on a leash; specific rules should be confirmed).
• Open year-round.

Features / Highlights:

• Spacious, Shady, and Level Sites: A consistent highlight from visitors is the quality of the campsites, described as "clean, level, shady, well-sized spots." The presence of "large concrete pad" (like at Spot 5) is a significant advantage for RVers seeking stable, comfortable setups.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The campground is a perfect spot for "family get-togethers," largely due to the "playground is clean and close to the camp sites," providing a safe and engaging area for children to play.

• Access to Bayou Bodcau Reservoir Recreation: Being part of the larger Bayou Bodcau project means campers have access to extensive outdoor opportunities, including fishing in Bodcau Creek and the 500-acre Ivan Lake, hiking and biking on multi-use trails, and disc golf.

• Peaceful and Natural Environment: Despite being relatively close to urban areas, the campground offers an enjoyable and quiet atmosphere, deeply embedded in a "very shady" and natural setting, ideal for relaxation and connecting with nature.

• Well-Maintained Grounds: While specific facilities like the bathhouse might need updates according to some feedback, the overall "enjoyable grounds" and the presence of a campground host who "keeps things clean and maintained" contribute to a positive experience.

• Variety of Outdoor Activities: Beyond camping, visitors can engage in fishing, explore miles of marked trails (including the 7-mile multi-use Durden Hills Nature Trail and the paved John Haygood Nature Trail), and utilize a game cleaning station, catering to a diverse range of outdoor interests.

• Proximity to Wildlife Management Area: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the 33,500-acre Bayou Bodcau Wildlife Management Area, known for its diverse habitats, "Champion Trees," and abundant wildlife, including alligators, beaver, and various bird species.

Contact Information:

Address: 843-897 Bodcau Dam Rd, Haughton, LA 71037, USA

Phone: (318) 949-1804

Mobile Phone: +1 318-949-1804

Bodcau Campgrounds, or Tom Merrill Recreation Area, is an excellent choice for locals in Louisiana seeking a serene, well-equipped, and conveniently located outdoor destination. Its ample shady and level campsites, particularly those with concrete pads, make it a comfortable choice for RVers, while the family-friendly amenities like the clean playground ensure that even the youngest campers have a fantastic time. The overall peaceful environment, despite its accessibility, allows for a true escape from daily stresses, enabling relaxation and connection with nature.

For those who enjoy more active pursuits, the abundant opportunities for fishing, hiking, biking, and disc golf within the larger Bayou Bodcau area provide endless possibilities for adventure. While some minor issues like cell service or specific utility hookup locations might require a little planning, the general consensus among visitors is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their eagerness to return. Bodcau Campgrounds truly offers a cherished local retreat where Arkansans can create lasting memories, whether through a quick weekend getaway or a longer, immersive outdoor experience in the heart of our beautiful state. It's a testament to the fact that you don't have to travel far to find a fantastic outdoor adventure.