No photos available at the moment.

Highway 472 Camp Introduce

For Louisiana sportsmen and true wilderness adventurers, **Highway 472 Camp** stands as an authentic, no-frills gateway to the vast public lands of the Kisatchie National Forest. Located directly on its namesake state highway, this designated "Hunter's Camp" offers a crucial, accessible base for those exploring the dense pine woods and wildlife-rich areas of Central Louisiana.

This is not a traditional developed campground with modern hookups. Instead, Highway 472 Camp delivers a **primitive camping experience** focused on self-reliance and direct access to nature. Its unique feature is its split location: the camp is divided into two areas directly across LA-472, serving as a dual-access point to both the Winn Ranger District and the Catahoula Ranger District of the Kisatchie National Forest. This geographical position makes it an exceptionally valuable resource for local hunters and campers who utilize the surrounding forests, especially during designated hunting seasons.

Campers here must be **completely self-contained**, embracing the rugged lifestyle that comes with dispersed camping. You will need to bring your own water, manage your own power, and adhere strictly to "pack-in, pack-out" principles for trash. Despite the minimal amenities, visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the ability to pull a self-contained RV or pitch a tent in a wooded, yet accessible, setting. It is the perfect spot for those seeking solitude and a genuine taste of Louisiana's 'Sportsman's Paradise' without the crowds of a developed park.

---

### Location and Accessibility

Highway 472 Camp is aptly named and easily located along Louisiana Highway 472, near the town of **Georgetown, LA**. Its position places it squarely within the boundaries of the **Kisatchie National Forest** and, crucially, inside the **Catahoula National Wildlife Management Preserve (NMWP)** area. This makes it a prime location for those engaging in the Preserve’s seasonal activities.

The address places you directly at the camp's roadside entry points:

LA-472, Georgetown, LA 71432, USA

The camp is split, with facilities existing on both the north and south sides of the highway. The south side generally falls within the Catahoula Ranger District, while the north side is often associated with the Winn Ranger District. This arrangement offers multiple clearing options for group and tent camping.

The drive to the camp is generally straightforward via major highways, such as U.S. 165, making it a viable overnight stop or a dedicated multi-day basecamp. While close to the highway, the wooded setting still manages to feel secluded. The campsites are first-come, first-served, and the access roads are typically gravel or dirt loops that can accommodate various vehicle types, including self-contained RVs, though caution should be exercised, especially during wet weather when areas can become rutted or muddy.

For those needing supplies, nearby towns like Winnfield are a short drive away, although the remoteness of the camp ensures a genuine break from urban life.

---

### Services Offered

As a designated primitive Hunter's Camp within the National Forest system, the services at Highway 472 Camp are intentionally minimal, promoting a rustic and low-impact camping style.

UL

  • Primitive (Dry) Camping: The camp is available for both **tent camping** and **self-contained RVs or trailers**. No utility hookups (electric, water, or sewer) are provided.
  • Restroom Facilities: **Vault toilets** are available on both the north and south sides of the camp. Maintenance levels can vary, so campers should be prepared.
  • Water Access: **No potable water is available** at the site. Campers must **pack in all necessary drinking and cooking water**. Some visitors report a natural spring that is piped on a nearby Forest Road (such as FR 380), but this should not be relied upon as the primary water source.
  • Campsite Availability: The camp operates on a **first-come, first-served basis** only. There is no reservation system, allowing for flexible access.
  • Information Boards: An **information board** is typically provided at the site, offering details on local regulations, alerts, and management unit boundaries.
  • Hunting Access: The site is specifically designated and maintained to support **hunters** accessing the Catahoula NMWP, though it is open year-round for all visitors.
  • Pets: Pets are generally allowed, provided they are kept restrained and supervised according to National Forest regulations.
  • ---

    ### Features and Highlights

    Highway 472 Camp is prized by Louisiana locals for its location and its capacity to serve a particular type of outdoor enthusiast.

    UL

  • Dual-District Access: Its position on LA-472 splits the camp, providing convenient access to activities within both the **Catahoula Ranger District** and the **Winn Ranger District**.
  • Hunter’s Base Camp: The camp is one of the key **designated Hunter's Camps** in the Kisatchie National Forest, making it extremely popular and centrally located for those participating in official hunting seasons.
  • Direct NMWP Access: Located inside the **Catahoula National Wildlife Management Preserve**, the camp offers immediate proximity to a significant area for wildlife observation and hunting opportunities in one of Louisiana's largest protected landscapes.
  • Seclusion and Privacy: Despite its location on a state highway, the surrounding **dense forest cover** and the wide, spaced-out clearing areas provide a sense of seclusion and privacy often noted by campers.
  • High Wildlife Potential: Being so close to the NMWP, the area is rich with game species, making it an excellent spot for viewing deer, turkey, and other native Louisiana wildlife.
  • Cell Service: A surprising benefit for such a primitive spot, some areas of the camp offer **decent cell service** (e.g., 2 bars of Verizon), which is invaluable for safety and minimal connectivity needs.
  • Proximity to Attractions: It serves as a good base for exploring other nearby Kisatchie attractions, such as the **Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Complex** and the **Longleaf Vista Recreation Area**, which offer hiking and scenic views.
  • ---

    ### Contact Information

    For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding current forest conditions, fire restrictions, or hunting season details related to the Highway 472 Camp, campers should contact the relevant Ranger District Office.

    Address (General Camp Location):

    LA-472, Georgetown, LA 71432, USA

    Phone (Calcasieu Ranger District, frequently manages this area):

    (318) 793-9427

    Phone (Kisatchie National Forest Supervisor's Office - Central Contact):

    (318) 473-7160

    It is highly recommended that visitors call the Ranger District Office for the area they plan to camp in to confirm any required permits (like the reported $5 fee for some dispersed sites) and to check for emergency alerts or trail closures.

    ---

    ### What is Worth Choosing Highway 472 Camp

    Highway 472 Camp is the premier choice for the Louisiana local whose definition of camping involves a focus on the hunt and the purity of the primitive environment. It is worth choosing for three primary reasons: **location, accessibility, and utility.**

    Its **location** is unmatched for the target user: it’s literally nestled inside the Catahoula National Wildlife Management Preserve. This grants hunters and serious nature observers virtually instant access to the game lands and trails. You park and you are immediately immersed in the wilderness, maximizing your time in the field.

    Its **accessibility** is a strong practical draw. Being situated directly on LA-472, it minimizes the lengthy, rough drives often required to reach deeper forest sites. For those hauling equipment, trailers, or self-contained RVs, this is a significant advantage. The dual-side layout also increases the probability of finding a spacious, open spot, particularly valuable for a first-come, first-served site.

    Finally, the camp’s **utility** as a functional, low-cost basecamp is perfect. It offers the essential vault toilet facilities while requiring the camper to be fully self-reliant for water and power. This self-reliance ensures a minimal-impact stay and attracts a dedicated community of outdoorsmen. If you are looking for a true "Hunter's Camp" where the focus is on the forest, the hunt, and the stars—not on Wi-Fi and hot showers—then Highway 472 Camp offers an authentic and highly practical Louisiana wilderness experience.

    Details

    • Amenities

    • Tent sites
    • Payments

    • Camping fee

    Location

    LouisianaGrant ParishGeorgetownLouisiana 472

    Customer Reviews

    0.0
    0 reviews

    Categories

    Popular Campgrounds & RV Parks

    Must-Read Camping & Outdoor Blog Posts

    Most Searched Japanese Restaurant Sites

    Trending Camping & Outdoor Blog Posts