Discover the best forest campgrounds in Louisiana with fishing

United States
—
Louisiana

98% (288 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Louisiana

Star Hosts in Louisiana

Under $50

100%

(57)

The Yoga Barn Camping or Glamping

6 sites · RVs, Tents28 acres · Ruston, LA

Come and take in the peace and serenity of the Yoga Barn Hipcamp, either tent camping or dry rv camping. Enjoy an evening under the stars, and wake up surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. There is a clean composting toilet, and the outdoor shower is heavenly!

Cajun retreat Campsite

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Prairieville, LA

My wife and I are native south Louisianians. I grew up fishing, trawling, catching seafood, hunting and skiing in Westwego. My wife grew up near New Orleans eating poboys and beignets. We moved to Prairieville 20 years ago. It’s just over an hour from New Orleans and our Bayou property is very similar to what we were accustomed to in Cajun country, Westwego. Learn more about this land: We own 2 acres of partially secluded property on Bayou Manchac. Our place is a genuine Cajun retreat inside and out. We’re operating one short stay and one extended stay campsite and all 3 experience options at this time;. The site is on the Bayou; great for relaxing, bird and turtle watching, kayaking, etc. (There is a public boat launch if needed) Great place for adult only relaxation or for families. Grassy area with firepit for s’mores, archery equipment, etc. Scenic neighborhood for bike riding and walking. We’re close to Baton Rouge and LSU; also about an hour away from the New Orleans metro area. Authentic Cajun hosts lives in a unique A-frame on the property and can point you to attractions and seafood markets. We are lifelong locals with lots of knowledge of the area! We can interact with you as much or as little as you’d like. We love to cook and often share Cajun meals with our guests!. *Available tours for a small cost; See Experience section for details.

85%

(55)

Horseshoe Bend River Camp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Baton Rouge, LA

This is the recreational property of the creator of PYRA. Enjoy your level of comfort at Horse Shoe Bend River Camp. Pop a tent for 10 bucks plus Hipcamp fees. Fresh well water and trash are free. Up to 20% discount on longer camps. Coming Soon: Jon Boat and trolling motor for excursions on the lake ATV trail rides with a waiver (no high speeds) Jet Ski Rentals with a waiver Jetboat rides on the Amite River River Beach Excursions (You will only have a ride to the beach and back, we do not supply any camping necessities)

Big Branch Apiary

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Lacombe, LA

We are a honeybee and blueberry farm on 50 acres north of Lake Pontchartrain. We're bounded by the Big Branch Wildlife Reserve to the south and a Rails to Trails bike path on the north. We are 3 miles from Lacombe to the east, Mandeville to the west, about 3 miles from Fountainbleu State Park, and an hour from New Orleans. Most of the farm is a mixed hardwood forest with designated wetlands. Desert Bayou and East Branch Bayou meander across the property. The farm has deer, foxes, bobcats, owls, fireflies, otters, raccoons, turtles, and, well, about anything common to the wilds of the Gulf South. This includes a litany of snakes, mosquitoes, and deer flies in their season. About 8 acres are used to raise poultry, bees and organically farmed blueberries. Overall, the land feels primordial and pristine. We are a designated Monarch Waystation and in the spring and fall see many migrating butterflies. We cultivate a lot of flowers so almost year round you can see butterflies in profusion. We are part of the USDAs Conservation Stewardship Program, concentrating on protecting and increasing habitat for animals and pollinators. Pets are welcome but the chickens often run free and chasing them, or the deer, ducks, sheep, etc., is not acceptable so keeping your pup on a leash when near the farm animals is encouraged. Campfires are allowed except on rare occasions, and fires help keep the mosquitoes at bay. You can hunt for deadfalls in the woods on the farm, or we can provide firewood for a small fee. This is a rustic situation: think dry camping, outdoor (heated) shower, and outhouses. We have hookups for one small RV or camper close to the barn. In addition, we have a 10x10' treehouse, and several places to pitch a tent. The farm is pretty secure--someone is on-site most of the time, it's gated, and there are security cameras at access points. But it is a farm in a rural community--you may hear roosters crow, sheep bleat, dogs bark, and the mule bray along with the sounds of owls, hawks, coyotes, and other native wildlife. If this sounds like it suits you then come on!, stay and enjoy the farm life.

96%

(14)

Opal Springs Nature Haven

5 sites · Tents33 acres · Bogalusa, LA

The property is an old homestead recently reclaimed and being brought back to life after many years abandoned. Early 1800s Bulgarian immigrants started a little community here called Stein. The old railroad used to pass through and there are alot of artifacts scattered throughout the property. We are in the process of cleaning up the old cabin built in late 1800s suprisingly still standing. The hardwood forest has a creek running through that is virtually untouched and home to wildlife of all kinds. Birds and wildlife of all kinds have a home here and no hunting allowed. Some trails have been cut and there are some natural trails for exploring the property through the hardwoods and campers are welcome to make new ones. A spring fed pond is great for fishing or just relaxing under the majestic live oaks. If Mushroom foraging is your thing you are in luck after a nice rain. This place had the best of southeast Louisiana and truly is a hidden gem. We are still in the clearing process so there are alot of projects going on but we definitely have some cool spots to pitch a tent. Host is on property in shipping container and willing to make accommodations as needed as we have electricity but are pretty much off the grid.. do not have an outdoor bathroom but could set something up with little effort. Have running water for solar shower or creek bath if you'd rather. Since we are still rebuilding there are some piles of lumber and things that may be unsafe for small children and animals. I have 2 dogs on the property with me but are fenced and friendly. If you have any questions just ask!

12 top forest campgrounds in Louisiana with fishing

99%

(166)

Big Branch Apiary

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Lacombe, LA

We are a honeybee and blueberry farm on 50 acres north of Lake Pontchartrain. We're bounded by the Big Branch Wildlife Reserve to the south and a Rails to Trails bike path on the north. We are 3 miles from Lacombe to the east, Mandeville to the west, about 3 miles from Fountainbleu State Park, and an hour from New Orleans. Most of the farm is a mixed hardwood forest with designated wetlands. Desert Bayou and East Branch Bayou meander across the property. The farm has deer, foxes, bobcats, owls, fireflies, otters, raccoons, turtles, and, well, about anything common to the wilds of the Gulf South. This includes a litany of snakes, mosquitoes, and deer flies in their season. About 8 acres are used to raise poultry, bees and organically farmed blueberries. Overall, the land feels primordial and pristine. We are a designated Monarch Waystation and in the spring and fall see many migrating butterflies. We cultivate a lot of flowers so almost year round you can see butterflies in profusion. We are part of the USDAs Conservation Stewardship Program, concentrating on protecting and increasing habitat for animals and pollinators. Pets are welcome but the chickens often run free and chasing them, or the deer, ducks, sheep, etc., is not acceptable so keeping your pup on a leash when near the farm animals is encouraged. Campfires are allowed except on rare occasions, and fires help keep the mosquitoes at bay. You can hunt for deadfalls in the woods on the farm, or we can provide firewood for a small fee. This is a rustic situation: think dry camping, outdoor (heated) shower, and outhouses. We have hookups for one small RV or camper close to the barn. In addition, we have a 10x10' treehouse, and several places to pitch a tent. The farm is pretty secure--someone is on-site most of the time, it's gated, and there are security cameras at access points. But it is a farm in a rural community--you may hear roosters crow, sheep bleat, dogs bark, and the mule bray along with the sounds of owls, hawks, coyotes, and other native wildlife. If this sounds like it suits you then come on!, stay and enjoy the farm life.

Horseshoe Bend River Camp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Baton Rouge, LA

This is the recreational property of the creator of PYRA. Enjoy your level of comfort at Horse Shoe Bend River Camp. Pop a tent for 10 bucks plus Hipcamp fees. Fresh well water and trash are free. Up to 20% discount on longer camps. Coming Soon: Jon Boat and trolling motor for excursions on the lake ATV trail rides with a waiver (no high speeds) Jet Ski Rentals with a waiver Jetboat rides on the Amite River River Beach Excursions (You will only have a ride to the beach and back, we do not supply any camping necessities)

Opal Springs Nature Haven

5 sites · Tents33 acres · Bogalusa, LA

The property is an old homestead recently reclaimed and being brought back to life after many years abandoned. Early 1800s Bulgarian immigrants started a little community here called Stein. The old railroad used to pass through and there are alot of artifacts scattered throughout the property. We are in the process of cleaning up the old cabin built in late 1800s suprisingly still standing. The hardwood forest has a creek running through that is virtually untouched and home to wildlife of all kinds. Birds and wildlife of all kinds have a home here and no hunting allowed. Some trails have been cut and there are some natural trails for exploring the property through the hardwoods and campers are welcome to make new ones. A spring fed pond is great for fishing or just relaxing under the majestic live oaks. If Mushroom foraging is your thing you are in luck after a nice rain. This place had the best of southeast Louisiana and truly is a hidden gem. We are still in the clearing process so there are alot of projects going on but we definitely have some cool spots to pitch a tent. Host is on property in shipping container and willing to make accommodations as needed as we have electricity but are pretty much off the grid.. do not have an outdoor bathroom but could set something up with little effort. Have running water for solar shower or creek bath if you'd rather. Since we are still rebuilding there are some piles of lumber and things that may be unsafe for small children and animals. I have 2 dogs on the property with me but are fenced and friendly. If you have any questions just ask!

Cajun retreat Campsite

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Prairieville, LA

My wife and I are native south Louisianians. I grew up fishing, trawling, catching seafood, hunting and skiing in Westwego. My wife grew up near New Orleans eating poboys and beignets. We moved to Prairieville 20 years ago. It’s just over an hour from New Orleans and our Bayou property is very similar to what we were accustomed to in Cajun country, Westwego. Learn more about this land: We own 2 acres of partially secluded property on Bayou Manchac. Our place is a genuine Cajun retreat inside and out. We’re operating one short stay and one extended stay campsite and all 3 experience options at this time;. The site is on the Bayou; great for relaxing, bird and turtle watching, kayaking, etc. (There is a public boat launch if needed) Great place for adult only relaxation or for families. Grassy area with firepit for s’mores, archery equipment, etc. Scenic neighborhood for bike riding and walking. We’re close to Baton Rouge and LSU; also about an hour away from the New Orleans metro area. Authentic Cajun hosts lives in a unique A-frame on the property and can point you to attractions and seafood markets. We are lifelong locals with lots of knowledge of the area! We can interact with you as much or as little as you’d like. We love to cook and often share Cajun meals with our guests!. *Available tours for a small cost; See Experience section for details.

The Yoga Barn Camping or Glamping

6 sites · RVs, Tents28 acres · Ruston, LA

Come and take in the peace and serenity of the Yoga Barn Hipcamp, either tent camping or dry rv camping. Enjoy an evening under the stars, and wake up surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. There is a clean composting toilet, and the outdoor shower is heavenly!

100%

(17)

Free Range Humanity Project

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents69 acres · Plain Dealing, LA

69 acres of raw land untouched since 1944. We pride ourselves in living free. We collect our own water, grow our own food, and produce our own power.The land is lush with trees and foliage for a perfect nature getaway. The serenity and silence is only interrupted by the beautiful sounds of the forest.

Booked 2 times

Porter-Muse Farms

41 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Greensburg, LA

Learn more about this land: 19 acre property with grassing areas, lake fields and wooded forest. Lots of deer and other wildlife. 100 year old pine trees and hard wood forest ... limited space due to hurricane Ida damage.

100%

(1)

Southern Heritage Farms

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Eastwood, LA

farming hunting fishing camping and special event space with a full catering kitchen. we have space for your horses and dogs.

SensU Land

2 sites · Tents1 acre · Abita Springs, LA

Close to the Historic town of Abita Springs! Minutes from everything the Northshore has to offer: Fountainbleau State Park, Pelican Park, Bogue Falaya Wayside Park, The St Tammany Trace, shopping, farmer's market, not to mention all Louisiana cuisine dining options. Centrally located w/quick access to downtown Covington & Mandeville!

100%

(1)

Walston Farm

1 site · RV20 acres · Lisbon, LA

This Land is a Family Treasure. Cicely's Grandfather buildt the Farm, her Father and his siblings grew up there. Till now it is a Family Refuge even if no Family member lives there. We all love the peace and tranquility this beautiful Land offers. Come and enjoy what we love so much. Relax at the pond while fishing, or sit back and watch the wildlife. Have a chat with the Farmer who has his kettle there. Meet Jill and Jack the Donkeys that life there, you will hear them if you don't see them right away. It is a place to unwind and relax. There are two places you can park your self contained Camper. Right next to the green house or across the road down at the pasture. There is a little Deck with a Table. Whatever you decide, please leave nothing behind, collect your trash, pick up after your dog. The next guest wants to enjoy the place as well.

100%

(2)

Red River Valley RV Park

10 sites · RVs6 acres · LA

Red River Valley RV Park is Veteran and family owned and operated. We offer a Beautiful , relaxing stay for our guest. FULL HOOK UPS AT EVERY SPOT INCLUDING UNLIMITED 5G INTERNET. Step back in time when camping was a relaxing experience and nature was the main feature. We only have ten spots so noise and traffic are kept to a minimal. Every spot is twenty feet wide with an additional twenty ft buffer on all sides. The length of RV Spots varies, smallest being 35 and most others are sixty ft. with ample room for hang over. ALL 10 SPOTS HAVE FULL HOOK UPS ,including 30/50 amp plug in with an additional 110 outlet, water and sewer plus unlimited 5G internet. Each spot has its own stone fire pit. Enjoy sitting on the deck overlooking the pond with fountains and watching the sunset behind the trees. SELF CONTAINED CAMPERS ONLY AS WE DO NOT OFFER RESTROOMS. WE DO HOWEVER OFFER WASHER AND DRYER. WE OFFER WEEKLY AND MONTHLY RATES . BOOK ON LINE AT WWW.REDRIVERVALLEYRVPARK.COM OR CALL CHRISTINE @ 337-288-1961 FOR PRICING AND/OR AVAILABILITY.

Allison Q.’s Land

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Deridder, LA

This is pull through camper spot with water, electric and sewage. This spot is really just a good spot to sleep and do business in Deridder (25 min) and Lake Charles(50 min). Quiet dark at night place to rest. We're very near if you have a need or problem. There is Bundick lake minutes away , you can bank fish or bring a boat to go out in.

Available this weekend

100%

(57)

The Yoga Barn Camping or Glamping

6 sites · RVs, Tents28 acres · Ruston, LA

Come and take in the peace and serenity of the Yoga Barn Hipcamp, either tent camping or dry rv camping. Enjoy an evening under the stars, and wake up surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. There is a clean composting toilet, and the outdoor shower is heavenly!

Opal Springs Nature Haven

5 sites · Tents33 acres · Bogalusa, LA

The property is an old homestead recently reclaimed and being brought back to life after many years abandoned. Early 1800s Bulgarian immigrants started a little community here called Stein. The old railroad used to pass through and there are alot of artifacts scattered throughout the property. We are in the process of cleaning up the old cabin built in late 1800s suprisingly still standing. The hardwood forest has a creek running through that is virtually untouched and home to wildlife of all kinds. Birds and wildlife of all kinds have a home here and no hunting allowed. Some trails have been cut and there are some natural trails for exploring the property through the hardwoods and campers are welcome to make new ones. A spring fed pond is great for fishing or just relaxing under the majestic live oaks. If Mushroom foraging is your thing you are in luck after a nice rain. This place had the best of southeast Louisiana and truly is a hidden gem. We are still in the clearing process so there are alot of projects going on but we definitely have some cool spots to pitch a tent. Host is on property in shipping container and willing to make accommodations as needed as we have electricity but are pretty much off the grid.. do not have an outdoor bathroom but could set something up with little effort. Have running water for solar shower or creek bath if you'd rather. Since we are still rebuilding there are some piles of lumber and things that may be unsafe for small children and animals. I have 2 dogs on the property with me but are fenced and friendly. If you have any questions just ask!

Big Branch Apiary

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Lacombe, LA

We are a honeybee and blueberry farm on 50 acres north of Lake Pontchartrain. We're bounded by the Big Branch Wildlife Reserve to the south and a Rails to Trails bike path on the north. We are 3 miles from Lacombe to the east, Mandeville to the west, about 3 miles from Fountainbleu State Park, and an hour from New Orleans. Most of the farm is a mixed hardwood forest with designated wetlands. Desert Bayou and East Branch Bayou meander across the property. The farm has deer, foxes, bobcats, owls, fireflies, otters, raccoons, turtles, and, well, about anything common to the wilds of the Gulf South. This includes a litany of snakes, mosquitoes, and deer flies in their season. About 8 acres are used to raise poultry, bees and organically farmed blueberries. Overall, the land feels primordial and pristine. We are a designated Monarch Waystation and in the spring and fall see many migrating butterflies. We cultivate a lot of flowers so almost year round you can see butterflies in profusion. We are part of the USDAs Conservation Stewardship Program, concentrating on protecting and increasing habitat for animals and pollinators. Pets are welcome but the chickens often run free and chasing them, or the deer, ducks, sheep, etc., is not acceptable so keeping your pup on a leash when near the farm animals is encouraged. Campfires are allowed except on rare occasions, and fires help keep the mosquitoes at bay. You can hunt for deadfalls in the woods on the farm, or we can provide firewood for a small fee. This is a rustic situation: think dry camping, outdoor (heated) shower, and outhouses. We have hookups for one small RV or camper close to the barn. In addition, we have a 10x10' treehouse, and several places to pitch a tent. The farm is pretty secure--someone is on-site most of the time, it's gated, and there are security cameras at access points. But it is a farm in a rural community--you may hear roosters crow, sheep bleat, dogs bark, and the mule bray along with the sounds of owls, hawks, coyotes, and other native wildlife. If this sounds like it suits you then come on!, stay and enjoy the farm life.

Cajun retreat Campsite

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Prairieville, LA

My wife and I are native south Louisianians. I grew up fishing, trawling, catching seafood, hunting and skiing in Westwego. My wife grew up near New Orleans eating poboys and beignets. We moved to Prairieville 20 years ago. It’s just over an hour from New Orleans and our Bayou property is very similar to what we were accustomed to in Cajun country, Westwego. Learn more about this land: We own 2 acres of partially secluded property on Bayou Manchac. Our place is a genuine Cajun retreat inside and out. We’re operating one short stay and one extended stay campsite and all 3 experience options at this time;. The site is on the Bayou; great for relaxing, bird and turtle watching, kayaking, etc. (There is a public boat launch if needed) Great place for adult only relaxation or for families. Grassy area with firepit for s’mores, archery equipment, etc. Scenic neighborhood for bike riding and walking. We’re close to Baton Rouge and LSU; also about an hour away from the New Orleans metro area. Authentic Cajun hosts lives in a unique A-frame on the property and can point you to attractions and seafood markets. We are lifelong locals with lots of knowledge of the area! We can interact with you as much or as little as you’d like. We love to cook and often share Cajun meals with our guests!. *Available tours for a small cost; See Experience section for details.

Horseshoe Bend River Camp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Baton Rouge, LA

This is the recreational property of the creator of PYRA. Enjoy your level of comfort at Horse Shoe Bend River Camp. Pop a tent for 10 bucks plus Hipcamp fees. Fresh well water and trash are free. Up to 20% discount on longer camps. Coming Soon: Jon Boat and trolling motor for excursions on the lake ATV trail rides with a waiver (no high speeds) Jet Ski Rentals with a waiver Jetboat rides on the Amite River River Beach Excursions (You will only have a ride to the beach and back, we do not supply any camping necessities)

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(57)

The Yoga Barn Camping or Glamping

6 sites · RVs, Tents28 acres · Ruston, LA

Come and take in the peace and serenity of the Yoga Barn Hipcamp, either tent camping or dry rv camping. Enjoy an evening under the stars, and wake up surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. There is a clean composting toilet, and the outdoor shower is heavenly!

Big Branch Apiary

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Lacombe, LA

We are a honeybee and blueberry farm on 50 acres north of Lake Pontchartrain. We're bounded by the Big Branch Wildlife Reserve to the south and a Rails to Trails bike path on the north. We are 3 miles from Lacombe to the east, Mandeville to the west, about 3 miles from Fountainbleu State Park, and an hour from New Orleans. Most of the farm is a mixed hardwood forest with designated wetlands. Desert Bayou and East Branch Bayou meander across the property. The farm has deer, foxes, bobcats, owls, fireflies, otters, raccoons, turtles, and, well, about anything common to the wilds of the Gulf South. This includes a litany of snakes, mosquitoes, and deer flies in their season. About 8 acres are used to raise poultry, bees and organically farmed blueberries. Overall, the land feels primordial and pristine. We are a designated Monarch Waystation and in the spring and fall see many migrating butterflies. We cultivate a lot of flowers so almost year round you can see butterflies in profusion. We are part of the USDAs Conservation Stewardship Program, concentrating on protecting and increasing habitat for animals and pollinators. Pets are welcome but the chickens often run free and chasing them, or the deer, ducks, sheep, etc., is not acceptable so keeping your pup on a leash when near the farm animals is encouraged. Campfires are allowed except on rare occasions, and fires help keep the mosquitoes at bay. You can hunt for deadfalls in the woods on the farm, or we can provide firewood for a small fee. This is a rustic situation: think dry camping, outdoor (heated) shower, and outhouses. We have hookups for one small RV or camper close to the barn. In addition, we have a 10x10' treehouse, and several places to pitch a tent. The farm is pretty secure--someone is on-site most of the time, it's gated, and there are security cameras at access points. But it is a farm in a rural community--you may hear roosters crow, sheep bleat, dogs bark, and the mule bray along with the sounds of owls, hawks, coyotes, and other native wildlife. If this sounds like it suits you then come on!, stay and enjoy the farm life.

Horseshoe Bend River Camp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Baton Rouge, LA

This is the recreational property of the creator of PYRA. Enjoy your level of comfort at Horse Shoe Bend River Camp. Pop a tent for 10 bucks plus Hipcamp fees. Fresh well water and trash are free. Up to 20% discount on longer camps. Coming Soon: Jon Boat and trolling motor for excursions on the lake ATV trail rides with a waiver (no high speeds) Jet Ski Rentals with a waiver Jetboat rides on the Amite River River Beach Excursions (You will only have a ride to the beach and back, we do not supply any camping necessities)

Free Range Humanity Project

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents69 acres · Plain Dealing, LA

69 acres of raw land untouched since 1944. We pride ourselves in living free. We collect our own water, grow our own food, and produce our own power.The land is lush with trees and foliage for a perfect nature getaway. The serenity and silence is only interrupted by the beautiful sounds of the forest.

Cajun retreat Campsite

2 sites · RVs2 acres · Prairieville, LA

My wife and I are native south Louisianians. I grew up fishing, trawling, catching seafood, hunting and skiing in Westwego. My wife grew up near New Orleans eating poboys and beignets. We moved to Prairieville 20 years ago. It’s just over an hour from New Orleans and our Bayou property is very similar to what we were accustomed to in Cajun country, Westwego. Learn more about this land: We own 2 acres of partially secluded property on Bayou Manchac. Our place is a genuine Cajun retreat inside and out. We’re operating one short stay and one extended stay campsite and all 3 experience options at this time;. The site is on the Bayou; great for relaxing, bird and turtle watching, kayaking, etc. (There is a public boat launch if needed) Great place for adult only relaxation or for families. Grassy area with firepit for s’mores, archery equipment, etc. Scenic neighborhood for bike riding and walking. We’re close to Baton Rouge and LSU; also about an hour away from the New Orleans metro area. Authentic Cajun hosts lives in a unique A-frame on the property and can point you to attractions and seafood markets. We are lifelong locals with lots of knowledge of the area! We can interact with you as much or as little as you’d like. We love to cook and often share Cajun meals with our guests!. *Available tours for a small cost; See Experience section for details.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Jimmie Davis State Park

Chatham, Louisiana

Sabine National Forest

Milam, Texas

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping in Louisiana with fishing guide

Overview

Louisiana is known for its Cajun cuisine and French culture, but you’ll find just much heart outside. Head beyond New Orleans to state parks, nature trails, and camping spots. Make a trip to St. Martinville and explore Lake Fausse Pointe State Park. Or, stick closer to the Mississippi River, where tent campsites and RV parks surround Baton Rouge. Further north, parks like Lake Bistineau State Park and Lake Claiborne State Park come just before the Arkansas border. No matter where you go, make sure to look up; you’re in the Pelican State, after all.

Where to go

Along the Gulf

Head along Louisiana’s coast, where you’ll find recreation areas, wildlife refuges, and, of course, beach campgrounds galore. Grand Isle State Park sits as close to the water as you can get, where RV sites are a fisherman’s paradise.

Follow the Mississippi

If you prefer the river to the gulf, stop in St. Francisville to get a taste of Louisiana’s local charm. The Mississippi River winds through Eastern Louisiana, and you can ride horses, hike, and fish throughout Tunica Hills. The peaceful blufflands house unique plants and animals, so you can birdwatch while cabin or tent camping.

Toward the Texas Border

Everything’s bigger in Texas—but not the Toledo Bend Reservoir, which hugs the border. On the Louisiana side, check out the RV campsite and cabin rentals at South or North Toledo Bend State Park. The area harbors some of the best Louisiana campgrounds, with picnic tables and group campsites. Cypress Bend State Park likewise overlooks the reservoir and offers unparalleled views.

Central Louisiana

You don’t have to head toward the state’s edge to appreciate Louisiana's beauty. Chicot State Park hovers in the state’s central south, with more than 6,000 acres of rolling hills. Within the park, you’ll find trails, cabins, and the Louisiana State Arboretum. There’s no better place to learn about—and see—the state's varied landscape.

When to go

Hurricane season runs between June and November. Save yourself the stress of unpredictable weather, and head to Louisiana between fall and spring. Remember that Mardi Gras celebrations pick up in February, so if you want a peaceful and secluded camping trip, keep the festivities—and their crowds—in mind. Luckily, enough campsites pop up beyond Louisiana’s major cities. You can easily find the perfect campground year-round.