Agriculture & Forestry Department

Are you a Louisiana local yearning for an outdoor adventure, a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, or a fun-filled getaway with the family right here in our beautiful state? If you're looking for a campground that offers both tranquility and plenty of activities, you need to know about Beaver Dam Campground. Nestled within the expansive Kisatchie National Forest, on the scenic shores of Upper Caney Lake in the Caney Lakes Recreation Complex, this campground is a true gem in Webster Parish, near Minden.

While the provided information refers to the "Agriculture & Forestry Department," public data and reviews indicate that the primary recreational facility at the given address and phone number is indeed the Beaver Dam Campground, which is managed as part of the Kisatchie National Forest. Visitors consistently praise Beaver Dam Campground for its "great fun" and "great visit," highlighting its clean facilities, helpful staff, and abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you're an avid angler, a hiking enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene spot to relax with loved ones, Beaver Dam Campground offers an inviting environment for all.

Beaver Dam Campground is ideally situated at 1304 Lewisville Rd, Minden, LA 71055, USA, within the Caney Lakes Recreation Complex of the Kisatchie National Forest. This strategic location places it on the northern shores of Upper Caney Lake, providing direct access to water-based activities and stunning lake views. The campground is nestled among a picturesque setting of woods, lakes, and rolling hills, offering a true escape into Louisiana's natural beauty.

Access to the campground is generally straightforward. While situated within a National Forest, Minden, a good-sized city with various amenities, is just a short drive away, offering convenient access to restaurants, shopping, and golfing. Shreveport is also not too far, making it a viable destination for residents from that metropolitan area seeking an outdoor escape. The roads leading to the campground within the National Forest are well-maintained, though some reviewers have noted they can be "skinny" with ditches on each side, which might require careful navigation for larger rigs. However, once inside the complex, clear signage typically directs campers to the specific areas. The gate to the recreation complex typically closes at 10:00 p.m. and reopens at 6:00 a.m., so guests should plan their arrivals accordingly.

Beaver Dam Campground is designed to provide a comfortable and equipped camping experience for various types of campers, from tent users to large RVs. Their focus is on facilitating enjoyable outdoor recreation with essential amenities. Based on public data and visitor reviews, here are the key services and facilities you can expect:

• Electric and Water Hookups: Campsites are equipped with electric and water hookups, providing convenience for RVs and trailers.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available on-site for RV wastewater disposal, ensuring a clean environment.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is provided throughout the campground.
• Flush Toilets: Clean flush toilets are available in the comfort stations for guest use.
• Hot Showers: Visitors confirm that hot showers are available and are cleaned daily, a highly appreciated amenity.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite typically includes a fire ring or grill, perfect for campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Picnic Tables: Campsites are furnished with picnic tables, providing a convenient spot for outdoor meals.
• Group Picnic Area: A dedicated group picnic area is available, accommodating up to 200 guests, ideal for larger gatherings.
• Camp Host: A dedicated camp host is often on-site, providing assistance and ensuring the smooth operation and cleanliness of the park. They are known for taking pride in keeping the park well-maintained.
• Trash Receptacles: Trash is removed daily from receptacles, contributing to the overall cleanliness.
• Reservations: Reservations can be made online via Recreation.gov, up to six months in advance for standard sites and 12 months for group sites, with a minimum lead time of 4 days.

Beaver Dam Campground stands out for several key features that enhance the camping experience and draw visitors back year after year. These highlights emphasize its appeal as a true outdoor recreation destination:

• Upper Caney Lake Access: The campground's location on the shores of Upper Caney Lake provides direct access to activities like swimming, boating, fishing, and water skiing.
• Excellent Fishing: The lakes in the area, including Caney Lake, are renowned for their fishing, with opportunities to catch bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and sand bass.
• Scenic Hiking and Biking Trails: The Sugar Cane National Recreation Trail (5.7 miles) passes right next to the campground, and the Lost Man Loop (2 miles) offers varied terrain for hikers and mountain bikers, allowing for immersive nature experiences.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Situated among woods, lakes, and hills within the Kisatchie National Forest, the campground offers a picturesque and serene environment for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.
• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Reviews consistently praise the "very clean" facilities, hot showers cleaned daily, and daily trash removal, indicating high standards of upkeep.
• Spacious Sites: Visitors note that the sites are "roomy" and "well spaced," offering a good degree of privacy and comfort. Some sites are large and relatively level, including paved options.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff/Camp Host: The staff and camp host are frequently mentioned as being "above and beyond helpful and friendly," enhancing the overall positive experience.
• Variety of Campsites: The campground caters to a range of campers, with sites suitable for tents, trailers, and big rigs, some offering lake views.
• Affordable Rates: With standard campsites around $25 per night, it offers excellent value for the amenities and natural setting provided.

As a facility managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Kisatchie National Forest, Beaver Dam Campground typically operates under standardized pricing. However, there are often ways to reduce costs or take advantage of specific programs. While direct "promotions" in the commercial sense may not be advertised, visitors should inquire about:

• America the Beautiful Passes: Holders of certain National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes (such as the Senior Pass or Access Pass) may receive discounts on camping fees.
• Group Site Reservations: The group picnic area and group campsites have different pricing structures that may be more cost-effective for large gatherings.
• Extended Stay Rates: While not explicitly advertised as discounts, longer stays might inherently offer better value per night compared to single-night bookings, though this varies by recreation.gov policies.

It's always recommended to visit Recreation.gov or call the Kisatchie National Forest Supervisor's Office or the local ranger district for the most up-to-date information on fees, reservation policies, and any potential savings programs.

To plan your outdoor adventure at Beaver Dam Campground, here’s how you can get in touch:

• Address: 1304 Lewisville Rd, Minden, LA 71055, USA (Note: While this address is linked to the Agriculture & Forestry Department, it refers to the location of the Beaver Dam Campground for recreational purposes).
• Phone: (318) 371-3007 (This number is associated with the Minden service center for the Department of Agriculture, which may oversee forest management and recreational land use. For direct campground inquiries or reservations, Recreation.gov is the primary source, or call the Kisatchie National Forest Supervisor's Office at (318) 473-7160 or the local ranger district at (318) 927-2061 as sometimes listed for Beaver Dam.
• Mobile Phone: +1 318-371-3007 (Same as above)

For reservations, please visit Recreation.gov, as this is the primary booking platform for federal campgrounds. For specific questions about the campground or local conditions, contacting the Kisatchie National Forest office numbers is advisable.

For residents of Louisiana, Beaver Dam Campground is an incredibly suitable and appealing destination for a multitude of reasons. It represents a fantastic opportunity to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of our own state, offering an authentic outdoor experience without the need for extensive travel. For those living in the northern part of Louisiana, particularly around Minden, Shreveport, or Monroe, this campground is a convenient and accessible escape.

Imagine a quick weekend trip where you can easily reach a serene lakeside setting within Kisatchie National Forest. Locals can take full advantage of the excellent fishing opportunities on Upper Caney Lake, known for its diverse fish populations, or enjoy boating and water skiing on a beautiful expanse of water. The extensive hiking and biking trails, like the Sugar Cane National Recreation Trail, provide ample opportunities for exercise and exploration, allowing us to connect with Louisiana's unique ecosystems.

The campground's focus on cleanliness, reliable facilities (including hot showers), and a welcoming atmosphere, often overseen by a dedicated camp host, ensures a comfortable and stress-free stay for families, couples, or solo adventurers. It's an affordable option for creating lasting memories, whether it's a family camping tradition, a peaceful retreat from city life, or a base for local hunting and fishing excursions. Beaver Dam Campground truly offers a piece of Louisiana's "Sportsman's Paradise" right in our backyard, making it an invaluable resource for locals seeking outdoor enjoyment and relaxation.