Open
— Open year-round. Reservations required and available through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance or upon arrival.
About
South Abutment East sits upstream of Bayou Bodcau Dam in a quiet, remote setting well off main travel roads. This Class B campground operates year-round and provides access to the diverse recreation opportunities of the Bayou Bodcau area, including 33,500 acres of public land consisting of moss-laden cypress swamps, mixed forests, and the Bodcau Creek and Reservoir.
The campground offers immediate access to water activities on Bayou Bodcau Reservoir via a nearby boat ramp with free life jacket loaner station. The reservoir is home to numerous fish species including black bass, spotted bass, crappie, catfish, and various bream. Across the street in Tom Merrill Recreation Area, a 7-mile mountain bike and hiking trail system winds through the forest. A playground and exercise area are within walking distance of the campground.
Bayou Bodcau is a dry reservoir that fills during periods of high rainfall, creating a dynamic environment ranging from slow-moving creek in summer to swift torrent in winter. The area is known for excellent hunting opportunities during regular seasons, with species including deer, turkey, waterfowl, squirrel, rabbits, dove, and quail. Bird watchers can observe great blue herons, hawks, owls, and various warbler species. The area also features the John Haygood Nature Trail, a 0.75-mile paved trail near the historic Durden House Environmental Education Center. Shreveport and Bossier City are 30-45 minutes away.
Directions
From Interstate 20, take exit 33 and head north on State Route 157. Drive 9 miles and turn right on Bodcau Dam Road. Drive 3 miles and destination will be on the right.
Nearby Campgrounds
