Family Camping Activities for All Ages: Games, Hiking, and Campfire Fun
Explore family camping activities that bring all ages together, from outdoor games and scenic hikes to memorable campfire fun that creates lasting memories.
For residents of Louisiana, finding that perfect spot to disconnect, cast a line, and soak up the natural beauty of the Sportsman's Paradise is always a top priority. Just a short drive from Leesville, in the heart of Vernon Parish, lies **Methodist Landing Recreational Park**. This is a functional, family-oriented campground and recreation area situated directly on the shores of the beautiful **Anacoco Lake**.
Operated and maintained by the Vernon Parish Police Jury for public use, Methodist Landing is designed to provide local residents and visitors with essential outdoor recreational opportunities. It is a **pay-per-use facility**—meaning a permit is required for entry—but the fees are modest, reflecting its commitment to being an accessible resource for the community.
The overall atmosphere is notably quiet and centered around the water. While it is not a luxury resort, it offers the essential amenities needed for a relaxing weekend of fishing, camping, and enjoying the serene environment that Louisiana's lakeshores provide. It is oriented specifically for a comfortable, laid-back family atmosphere.
Location and Accessibility
Methodist Landing Recreational Park is conveniently located in Vernon Parish, easily accessible from the town of Leesville. Its precise location is:
380 Methodist Landing Rd, Leesville, LA 71446, USA.
The park is situated right on **Anacoco Lake**, an impoundment known for its fishing and water-based activities. Anacoco Lake, along with nearby Vernon Lake, provides a vast expanse of water managed for both water supply and recreation by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (LDWF) and the Department of Transportation and Development.
Accessibility is straightforward, involving a drive off major local routes onto Methodist Landing Road. Crucially, the park is a **gated facility**, which helps ensure security and privacy for campers and park users. Since it is a 'pay per use' area, all individuals entering the park must obtain a permit, which helps the Vernon Parish Police Jury manage the facility and ensure its maintenance for the community.
Services Offered (Campground and Day-Use Amenities)
Methodist Landing Recreational Park provides a mix of facilities supporting both overnight camping and day-use recreation focused on the water. These services are managed to offer functional comfort in a natural setting:
Features / Highlights (A Local's Take on the Experience)
What truly sets Methodist Landing apart is its primary focus on quiet, water-centric recreation, making it a beloved spot for those who appreciate tranquility and fishing in western Louisiana.
Contact Information
For permits, general inquiries, or to check on the availability of the pavilion or campsites, local users should contact the Vernon Parish Police Jury office responsible for the park management.
Address: 380 Methodist Landing Rd, Leesville, LA 71446, USA
Phone: (337) 238-0324
Mobile Phone: +1 337-238-0324
It is always recommended to call ahead, especially for whole park rentals or pavilion reservations, as they must be paid in full by the previous week to secure the space, as per Parish policy.
What is Worth Choosing Methodist Landing
For Louisiana residents in and around Vernon Parish, choosing Methodist Landing Recreational Park is choosing a no-frills, honest, and community-focused outdoor experience. It is not about luxury RV parks or highly structured recreational programs; it is about embracing the core elements of the Louisiana outdoors.
You should choose Methodist Landing if:
You prioritize **direct, quiet access to Anacoco Lake** for fishing and boating. The dedicated ramps and fish-cleaning station are major draws for anglers who want minimal fuss and maximum time on the water.
You are seeking an **affordable and genuinely local camping option**. The park's management by the Vernon Parish Police Jury ensures the fees remain low and the focus stays on serving the community.
You are planning a **large family or community gathering** and need an enclosed pavilion near the water. The ability to rent the large building or even the whole park provides an excellent, scenic venue for events.
While the reviews indicate that park patrons should anticipate occasional maintenance challenges, particularly in the older restroom facilities—a common issue in high-use public parks—the strong points of quiet, community-driven operation, and prime waterfront location make Methodist Landing a valuable and highly recommendable local gem for enjoying Louisiana's Sportsman's Paradise.
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
RV sewer hookup
RV water hookup
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Restroom
Running water
Camping fee
Good for kids
On-site parking
Well kept park area, signage posted for water hazards. The large building is well put to accommodate a large group. The only issue is the building needs to have fans to cool the interior down, the ventilation is good but fans at both ends would keep it cooler during hotest hours of the days/summer. Ladies restrooms need to be fumigated, lots of nasty bugs & spiders, kinda smelly, some deficate (nasty people!!), left on toilets.
Nice quiet campground right next to the water.
Gate was closed. Ruined most of my morning fishing.
Very peaceful. Love the lake
Nice place to get away and unwind from life