The Lacombe area sits near the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, offering campers access to coastal environments with elevations generally around 10-30 feet above sea level. The subtropical climate creates muggy summer conditions and mild winters, with mosquitoes active nearly year-round. Water management is crucial for campers in this low-lying region where rainfall can quickly create saturated ground conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: While staying at McLeod Park Campground, visitors can fish along the Jourdan River. "The park is clean and very family friendly. Cell service: Verizon service with 2 bars and AT&T one bar sometimes none. We were able to stream the LSU Tigers beat Arkansas on our Verizon hot spot," noted a visitor who enjoyed the river views from their campsite.
Waterway exploration: Kayak or canoe the waterways that connect throughout the region's campgrounds. "Hidden Oaks has a river that runs right through the campground. A small 'general store' is a real convience for those of us who forget the ketchup!" according to one camper who visited Hidden Oaks Family Campground.
Nature walks: Take advantage of elevated boardwalks through swampy terrain. "Went for a few nights solo camping (with my dog) in late January, so we had the tent area to ourselves until Friday afternoon. Really impressed with the cleanliness of the grounds... Several miles of trails showcasing the beauty of southern Louisiana," reported a camper at Tickfaw State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Look for alligators, turtles, and birds at multiple locations. "There's a dirt trail that goes around the lake but be aware there are some pretty good sized gators lounging about," warns a Tickfaw State Park visitor who used the fishing pier.
What campers like
Convenience to New Orleans: Many campgrounds provide quick access to the city. "Arriving from Tiki Toms in Tiki Island, TX. We stayed for 2 nights on our way to Alabama. This resort sits approximately 5 miles from downtown New Orleans. It is a great onsite restaurant with a fabulous pool," notes a camper at New Orleans RV Resort & Marina.
Water amenities: Pools, splash pads, and water slides are common features. At Bayou Segnette State Park Campground, "the sites are are large but watch what side your picnic table may be on. Short drive to Barataria Preserve for seeing wildlife."
Special events: Seasonal celebrations draw repeat visitors. "We go every year for Halloween, run down but still fun for kids to trick or treat. Cabins are decent if have friends that need someplace to stay," explains a regular visitor to Adventures RV Resort.
Yurt accommodations: For those interested in yurt camping near Lacombe, Louisiana, several options exist. "Huge park with plenty of places to explore. We saw plenty of wildlife such as turkey, deer, rabbits, turtles, alligators and birds. Plenty of trails for hiking and biking," notes a camper at Bogue Chitto State Park Campground, which offers yurt rentals among their accommodation options.
What you should know
Cell service varies: Coverage can be spotty throughout the region. A visitor to McLeod Park observed, "Verizon service with 2 bars and AT&T one bar sometimes none. We were able to stream the LSU Tigers beat Arkansas on our Verizon hot spot."
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas are susceptible to water issues. "We were in the lower area campsites, which were prone to flash flooding. We actually left a day early due to prediction of rain," shared one camper at Tickfaw State Park.
Site conditions: Level spots may be hard to find at some campgrounds. A visitor to Hidden Oaks Family Campground noted, "I almost got stuck twice because the spots aren't on solid ground and the spaces are too close together. They are a mix of sand and dirt."
Insects: Mosquitoes and other bugs are persistent, especially after dark. "The golf coarse was filthy and full of mosquitoes. I'm from south Louisiana so I know about mosquitoes and this was a bit ridiculous in the middle of the day," reported a visitor to Adventures RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many parks feature dedicated children's areas. At Land-O-Pines Family Campground, "there is a lot of fun things to do for the whole family, from swimming, water slide to playing bingo and a lot more," according to one happy visitor.
Water activities: Splash pads and swimming areas are popular with children. "The grandkids loved the splash pad/water slide and easy access to the river," noted a camper at Tickfaw State Park.
Halloween festivities: Several campgrounds host special trick-or-treating events. "Great site..we went for Halloween weekend and there were alot of activities and trick or treating for the kids..great campsite great memories," shared a Land-O-Pines visitor.
Yurt family stays: The yurt accommodations near Lacombe, Louisiana provide more comfort than traditional tents. "Full RV hookups. Large shower stalls with locking door. Great walking trails," commented a Tickfaw State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may be challenging. When visiting Three Oaks & A Pine RV Park, one camper noted, "About 30 back in gravel slots, the neighborhood is not very scenic but it's a good location right off I-10 and 15 minutes to the French Quarter... It is by a train depot, so there is considerable noise."
Hookup reliability: Power and water quality vary between locations. A visitor to Tickfaw State Park appreciated that there was "No dip in electricity at peak usage. Good water pressure. Free laundry for campers."
Campsite privacy: Some parks offer more separation between sites than others. "Our site was lined with woods and gave us the feeling of seclusion," noted a Tickfaw State Park camper.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. At Land-O-Pines Family Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Stayed in 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."
