Shannon Johnson's camp at O&I

Introduction / Overview: Your Primitive Gateway to the Louisiana Wilderness

For Louisiana residents who value simplicity, rugged adventure, and direct access to prime hunting and outdoor recreation, Shannon Johnson's Camp at O&I offers a unique and secluded experience. Tucked away in the beautiful, expansive wilderness of Vernon Parish, this location is known within the local community as a rustic, no-frills destination, primarily appealing to hunters and those seeking true primitive camping. Located within the general vicinity of the Kisatchie National Forest, Calcasieu Ranger District (Vernon Unit), the area, sometimes referenced by the community designation 'O&I' (which often refers to a local area or road system), is synonymous with deep-woods tranquility and an authentic Louisiana outdoor experience.

This is not a highly developed RV park but a genuine hunter's camp environment, perfect for those who are self-sufficient and prepared for a backcountry adventure. It serves as a fantastic basecamp for exploring the extensive national forest lands, particularly during hunting seasons, and offers a quiet, remote feeling that can be hard to find in more populated areas. If your goal is to disconnect from the noise of city life, immerse yourself in the natural landscape of the Piney Woods, and engage directly with the environment through hiking, wildlife viewing, or hunting, this camp in Vernon Parish provides the perfect, unadulterated setting.

It is important to note that a location like this emphasizes the "pack it in, pack it out" philosophy. Campers here are expected to respect the environment, manage their own waste, and be prepared to rely on their own resources, contributing to the preservation of the area's natural, untouched beauty.

Location and Accessibility in Vernon Parish

Shannon Johnson's Camp at O&I is situated within Vernon Parish, LA 71446, USA, placing it in the heart of Louisiana's "Legend Country" and the vast Kisatchie National Forest. This area is characterized by longleaf pine forests, rolling terrain, and proximity to major recreational resources. It is located near the town of Leesville, which is approximately 8 miles away, making it a viable location for quickly accessing necessary supplies while retaining a remote feel.

The camp’s specific address in Vernon Parish indicates its deep-woods location, often accessed via the network of forest roads managed by the US Forest Service in the Calcasieu Ranger District. Due to the area's proximity to Fort Polk (known locally as Fort Johnson), visitors should be aware of military activity in the general region. While the campsite itself is a public camping area, surrounding forest access, especially during training exercises, may require checking current gate schedules and regulations. The proximity to Leesville and the major highways leading to it (such as U.S. Highway 171) ensures that despite its secluded nature, the camp remains within a reasonable driving distance for Louisiana residents from Lake Charles, Alexandria, and surrounding communities.

Basic Services Offered for Primitive Camping

In keeping with its status as a primitive hunter's camp, the services provided at the O&I location are minimalistic and focused entirely on basic functionality, prioritizing a genuine outdoor experience over luxurious amenities. Campers should prepare to be mostly self-sufficient.

• Water: No potable water is available; campers must pack in all drinking and cooking water.
• Sanitation: Vault restroom facilities (vault toilets) are typically provided.
• Camp Use: Primarily free primitive camping for both tents and small RVs/travel trailers.
• Waste Management: Signage often indicates a pack it in, pack it out policy, meaning visitors are responsible for removing all their waste from the site.
• Access: Dispersed camping in designated loop areas, usually accommodating around 10 to 15 sites.
• Site Maintenance: Services are seasonal; maintenance is focused primarily during hunting season, though the camp is generally open year-round.
• Fire Safety: Open fire pits for campfires, subject to current local and forest fire regulations.

Key Features and Highlights for the Louisiana Outdoorsman

The true value of Shannon Johnson's Camp at O&I lies not in amenities, but in its exceptional location and the access it provides to the region's top recreational and hunting grounds. It is a favored spot for those who seek to fully immerse themselves in the Kisatchie wilderness.

• Hunting Access: A designated hunter's camp ideal for accessing game areas within the Kisatchie National Forest, Vernon Unit, especially during official hunting seasons.
• Trailheads: Centrally located near major hiking and recreation corridors, including the Ouiska Chitto Trail and the Big Branch Trail.
• Scenic Areas: Close proximity to the Longleaf Scenic Area, providing excellent opportunities for photography, wildlife viewing (deer, foxes, owls), and appreciating the unique Longleaf Pine ecosystem.
• Seclusion: Known for its remote and quiet atmosphere, particularly outside of peak hunting season, offering a true sense of solitude.
• Free Camping: One of the key highlights is that it offers free primitive camping (first-come, first-served basis), making it an extremely budget-friendly option for extended stays in the forest.
• Pet Friendly: Generally pet-friendly, allowing Louisiana residents to bring their dogs and hunting companions (subject to forest regulations).
• Recreation: Excellent starting point for horse riding and hiking on the surrounding trails and dirt roads.

Contact Information

Because Shannon Johnson's Camp at O&I is a primitive, free-use area, there is typically no direct contact phone number for the specific site. For information regarding its location, access, and current conditions, it is best to contact the managing authority for the Vernon Unit of the Kisatchie National Forest.

Address: Vernon Parish, LA 71446, USA (General Area)

Managing Authority (Kisatchie National Forest Supervisor’s Office): 318-473-7160

Local Ranger District (Calcasieu Ranger District): 318-793-9427 (For specific area conditions and gate information)

What is Worth Choosing This Hunter’s Camp

For Louisiana outdoorsmen, choosing Shannon Johnson’s Camp at O&I is worth it because it delivers an unrivaled authentic and accessible primitive camping experience in a premier hunting and hiking region. While many campgrounds offer amenities, this site offers something more valuable to the prepared camper: seclusion and direct, free access to the Kisatchie National Forest.

It is the ideal choice for hunters who need a quick, no-fuss basecamp directly adjacent to the hunting grounds, eliminating long travel times. It’s also perfect for backpackers and hikers who want to explore the Ouiska Chitto and Big Branch trails in their entirety without the distraction of a crowded, amenity-rich park. The free use policy makes it exceptionally cost-effective, allowing Louisianans to spend their resources on equipment and supplies rather than nightly fees. The commitment to a primitive standard—with minimal facilities like just a vault toilet—ensures that the natural environment remains the main attraction. For those who can pack their own water, manage their own waste, and appreciate the quiet solitude of the Longleaf Pines, Shannon Johnson's Camp at O&I is truly the place to experience Louisiana’s "Sportsman's Paradise" in its purest, most rustic form. It is a genuine step back into the wilderness that fosters independence and a deeper connection with the natural world.