Fullerton Lake Campground

Introduction / Overview: Camping Steeped in Louisiana History

For Louisiana locals with a passion for history and primitive, peaceful camping, the Fullerton Lake Campground within the Kisatchie National Forest is a truly unique destination. This U.S. Forest Service site offers a beautiful, quiet lakeside setting that serves as the gateway to the fascinating Fullerton Recreation Complex. This area is nationally significant, preserving the ruins and foundations of the massive Fullerton Sawmill and Town, which operated as one of the largest lumber operations in the South from 1907 to 1927. Today, the campground provides a serene basecamp for those wishing to explore this poignant piece of Louisiana's past. Reviewers consistently praise the "Beautiful spot" and the fact that the experience is often low-cost or even free, making it highly attractive to budget-conscious residents. With non-motorized boating allowed on the lake and trails leading directly to the historic ruins, Fullerton Lake Campground delivers an unforgettable experience that blends relaxation with historical discovery—a genuine Big Woods getaway.

Location and Accessibility: Vernon Parish's Historic Corner

Fullerton Lake Campground is located within the Vernon Unit of the Calcasieu Ranger District of the Kisatchie National Forest, near the small community of Pitkin, Louisiana. This location places it close to the western boundary of the National Forest, giving it a rugged, isolated feel.

The official address for navigation is:

125 LA-399, Pitkin, LA 70656, USA

Accessibility is straightforward for Louisiana travelers. From Leesville, take US Hwy 171 south, turn left onto LA Hwy 10, and then turn onto LA Hwy 399, which leads directly to the complex entrance. The road into the campground is generally paved, allowing easy access for trailers and smaller RVs. The seclusion of the site is part of its charm; the area sees "little traffic," ensuring a quiet experience once settled. Its proximity to the vastness of the Kisatchie National Forest provides an excellent launch point for exploring the state's largest protected forest lands, particularly the longleaf pine ecosystems and the nearby Fort Polk area.

Services Offered: Primitive, Clean, and Affordable

Fullerton Lake Campground maintains a commitment to primitive, low-impact camping, which contributes to its low cost and natural feel. While it lacks full utility hookups, it provides essential, well-maintained facilities.

Campsites: The campground offers a limited number of sites suitable for tents, trailers, and campers, including a few pull-through sites. Sites are graveled and feature gravel or paved parking spurs.Sanitation: The facility provides both flush restrooms and vault toilets (outhouses) for convenience, with reviewers noting the bathrooms are generally "nice" and clean. Some sources even indicate the presence of showers near the pavilion, which is a major benefit for a primitive site.Potable Water: Drinking water is available from a central spigot near the vault toilets and restrooms, though not at every individual site. Campers must bring containers.Campsite Amenities: Each site includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill grate for cooking over an open fire.Group Use Area: The Fullerton Recreation Complex includes a group pavilion that can be reserved for events like reunions or large gatherings.Waste Management: Trash receptacles are placed within the camping and day-use areas.Fees: The camping fee is generally low, currently cited as $15 per night for a single unit, with some reviews even noting the site as potentially free in the past or during off-season, highlighting its exceptional affordability. The fee is collected on-site via an honor system or fee tube.

Features / Highlights: History, Hiking, and Quiet Waters

The features of Fullerton Lake Campground are dominated by the serene lake and the remarkable historical landscape that surrounds it.

Historic Sawmill Ruins: The main highlight is the proximity to the Fullerton Mill and Town Site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Campers have direct access to the 1.6-mile Fullerton Mill Trail, which leads through the ruins and concrete foundations of the massive, abandoned sawmill town.Non-Motorized Lake: Fullerton Lake prohibits the use of motorized boats, ensuring a highly quiet and peaceful atmosphere perfect for non-motorized boating like canoeing and kayaking.Fishing: The lake is popular for bank fishing, though some reviewers note that fishing directly from the shore can be challenging due to vegetation. Target species include Largemouth bass, Channel catfish, and Sunfish.Hiking and Biking: In addition to the short Fullerton Mill Trail, the long-distance Ouiska Chitto Trail for hikers and bikers passes nearby, offering opportunities for extended exploration of the Kisatchie National Forest.Natural Beauty: The campground is a "Beautiful spot" set among longleaf pine and oak trees, offering scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset.Affordability: The combination of essential amenities (flush toilets, water) and a low nightly fee makes this one of the best high-value camping options for local Louisiana residents.

Contact Information: U.S. Forest Service Management

As a U.S. Forest Service facility, management and official information for Fullerton Lake are handled by the Calcasieu Ranger District.

Campground Address (General Location):

125 LA-399, Pitkin, LA 70656, USA

Managing District Office (Calcasieu Ranger District):

9912 Highway 28 West, Boyce, LA 71409

Office Phone (Kisatchie Supervisor's Office - Main Line):

(318) 473-7160

Ranger District Phone (For current conditions and specific inquiries):

(318) 793-9427

Operational Hours:

The campground is open year-round, 24 hours a day, subject to weather conditions. Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. The maximum stay limit is 14 days.

What is Worth Choosing: History and Affordability

For Louisiana locals, the Fullerton Lake Campground is an excellent choice, primarily due to its unique fusion of historical significance and accessible, affordable primitive camping.

The defining reason to visit is the Historical Immersion. No other campground in the region offers such direct, preserved access to the ruins of a massive 1920s sawmill town. The ability to walk the Fullerton Mill Trail and see the foundations of a vanished community is a powerful, educational, and engaging experience for all ages.

Furthermore, the High Value, Low Cost proposition is highly appealing. For a minimal fee (around $15/night, as of current data), campers receive a tranquil, wooded site with access to clean flush toilets and potable water, all surrounding a peaceful, non-motorized lake. This affordability, combined with the quiet atmosphere and historical exploration, makes Fullerton Lake Campground a must-visit destination for self-sufficient Louisiana adventurers and history buffs seeking an authentic, memorable escape in the Kisatchie National Forest.