Bogue Chitto State Park offers horseback riding opportunities with 14 miles of trails winding through 1,786 acres of Louisiana wilderness. Located 17 miles from Hammond, the park provides varying terrain from wooded hills to riverside paths. The campground features multiple loops with different hookup options and can accommodate trailers at most sites, though the access road condition varies seasonally.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Bogue Chitto State Park Campground, visitors frequently spot diverse wildlife. "We saw plenty of wildlife such as turkey, deer, rabbits, turtles, alligators and birds," reports Tiffany M. The lakes in the lower section of the park attract numerous alligators, as Larry notes: "This place is crawling with gators in the lower portion on the lakes. Hey this is south Louisiana."
River recreation: The Bogue Chitto River provides cooling summer recreation options beyond trail riding. "The river offers a nice swimming hole during the summer," shares Tiffany M. Another visitor confirms "river tubing available" as a popular warm-weather activity that attracts families and groups.
Trail systems beyond riding: Equestrian camping near Hammond includes access to hiking and biking paths. James L. found Bogue Chitto offers more than just horse trails: "Hiking trails, equestrian trails, tubing, camping... they've got it all." Many trails connect directly to camping areas, allowing for convenient day excursions without driving.
What campers like
Water features: The multiple water bodies throughout Farr Park RV Campground and surrounding area provide scenic camping. Michael T. notes "Bike path trailhead is there, with extensive pathways on the levee," making it possible to ride or walk along waterways. For horse owners camping in the region, these pathways offer additional riding opportunities beyond designated horse trails.
Equestrian amenities: At Sweetwater Campground RV Ranch in Loranger, horse owners appreciate additional options like wagon rides. Charmon K. shares: "Enjoyed my time here. Peaceful setting with a pool! Wagon ride for kids, pond, ducks, mule was cute!" The facility provides alternative equestrian experiences beyond trail riding.
Spacious sites: Larger sites accommodate horse trailers at designated equestrian campgrounds. Reagan S. found Bogue Chitto provides "relaxing stream front site nice wooden patio firepit and bbq" with enough room for equestrian equipment. Sites numbered in the 120s frequently offer better water access with adequate parking for trucks and trailers.
What you should know
Alligator safety: Campers with horses should be aware of wildlife hazards. Cat R. warns about Bogue Chitto: "DON'T FEED THE GATORS. Literally, don't feed the gators. There were signs everywhere... When my hubby rustled a bag, several alligators swam right up to our site!" Horse owners must maintain proper control of animals near water.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying areas in equestrian campgrounds near Hammond can experience water issues. Cat R. notes they "were in the lower area campsites, which were prone to flash flooding. We actually left a day early due to prediction of rain." Horse owners should request higher elevation sites when possible, particularly during Louisiana's rainy seasons.
Site selection strategy: For Land-O-Pines Family Campground, David B. advises: "The streets and sites are gravel and can get a little muddy in spots after a rain." When booking equestrian sites, request information about ground conditions, especially if traveling during wet periods.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Families appreciate the swimming opportunities at equestrian campgrounds near Hammond. Therese A. found Bogue Chitto especially child-friendly: "The grandkids loved the splash pad/water slide and easy access to the river." This provides alternative recreation when children need breaks from horse activities.
Multi-activity options: New Orleans RV Resort & Marina offers families diverse recreation beyond horse trails. Stuart K. notes: "Nice & easy clean resort. They pick up your trash by noon, LP pickup/refill, shower hot, store, pool, hot tub, sitting areas with rockers, laundry, dog area and great restaurant/sport bar." These amenities support longer family stays.
Seasonal events: David D. recommends checking holiday schedules: "Great site..we went for Halloween weekend and there were alot of activities and trick or treating for the kids..great campsite great memories." Many equestrian campgrounds near Hammond host special events that combine horse activities with holiday celebrations.
Tips from RVers
Site specifics: At Bogue Chitto State Park, Reagan S. recommends "site 126 relaxing stream front site" for its "nice wooden patio firepit and bbq." He notes "full hookup in uperlanls, just water and electric in bottomland," which helps RVers requiring full hookups for longer stays with horses.
Ground conditions: David B. at Land-O-Pines notes his stay was in a "pull-through campsite C69 which was shady and level. It was a gravel site. There was enough parking for my 34 ft TT and truck." Horse owners with larger rigs should request information about site dimensions to ensure adequate space for both RV and horse trailer.
