Camping near Westwego, Louisiana primarily centers around water management infrastructure, with many sites built on raised platforms or concrete pads to combat the region's high water table. The Mississippi River and connected bayous create a unique camping environment where wildlife viewing opportunities exist alongside urban proximity. Sites often feature paved areas rather than traditional dirt camping pads due to drainage considerations.
What to do
Explore the Mississippi River levee: At New Orleans West KOA in nearby River Ridge, campers can access the Mississippi River levee trail system. "A 10 minute walk will have you on the multi-use trail on top of the levee and that is a wonderful place for a walk, jog, or bike ride," notes one visitor who appreciated this less-known recreational opportunity.
Visit nearby plantations: Several historical plantations are within driving distance of Westwego campsites. "Easy to check out Oak Valley and the Whitney plantations," reports a camper who used the KOA as their base camp for exploring regional history sites.
Take swamp tours: The wetlands surrounding Westwego offer opportunities to experience Louisiana ecosystems. "Some great swamp tours near by (Ragin Cajun)" mentions a camper who enjoyed exploring the natural areas while staying at the New Orleans West KOA.
Fishing opportunities: St. Bernard State Park provides access to fishing areas, with one camper noting that "St. Bernard has many attraction, nice views, friendly people." The park's proximity to water makes it popular for fishing enthusiasts looking for accessible spots.
What campers like
Proximity to New Orleans: French Quarter RV Resort offers secure camping extremely close to downtown. "Walking distance to French Quarter," notes one reviewer, highlighting the rare opportunity to camp near major urban attractions without long commutes.
Security features: Many campgrounds implement significant security measures due to their urban proximity. At French Quarter RV Resort, campers appreciate that the "Complex is walled with razor wire on top so we felt very safe staying here."
Convenient transportation options: Three Oaks & A Pine RV Park provides affordable camping with easy city access. "You can Uber into the french quarter for about $12 and takes 15 minutes," shares one camper who appreciated not having to navigate city parking.
Wildlife viewing: Unexpected wildlife encounters are common at many campgrounds. At St. Bernard State Park, campers should be aware that "*There are gators in the water filled ditch along the sites," as one military veteran noted during their stay.
What you should know
Train and traffic noise: Many campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation infrastructure. At Three Oaks & A Pine RV Park, campers report "Traffic, trains, airplanes and construction noise, you've got it all here. Bring earplugs if your tent camping."
Seasonal flooding issues: Sites often retain water after rain. "Some of the sites are low and can hold water," notes a visitor to St. Bernard State Park, reflecting a common challenge in the region's low-lying campgrounds.
Variable pricing: Rates can change dramatically during special events. "Prices seem to change by season and during events so call in," advises one Three Oaks & A Pine visitor, suggesting campers confirm current rates rather than relying on published prices.
Neighborhood quality varies: Some campgrounds are located in industrial or transitioning areas. "The neighborhood isn't the greatest," acknowledges one camper at Three Oaks & A Pine, though they still gave the park a positive review based on other factors.
Tips for camping with families
Check for splash pads: Bayou Segnette State Park offers water play areas perfect for hot days. "In addition, a RV dump station is available for those needing one at the entrance and is well lit, otherwise camp has a dim glow at night so to not attract additional bugs in the night," shares a family who appreciated the thoughtful lighting design.
Look for private bathrooms: Some campgrounds offer individual shower rooms rather than communal facilities. "Nice bathrooms with private showers," reports a family at St. Bernard State Park who found this feature particularly helpful when camping with children.
Consider pool availability: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools which provide relief from heat and humidity. "The pool was overcrowded each time I went," mentions one French Quarter RV Resort visitor, suggesting families plan swimming time during off-peak hours.
Check playground locations: At Bayou Segnette State Park, "The playground is in the campsite between sites 10 and 11. At site 9, I could watch the kids play while I sat in the shade, watched them and relaxed."
Tips from RVers
Sewer connection design: Many RV parks in the region have unusual sewer hookups. "The sewer hookups stick up a foot above the ground which makes it impossible to get your discharge hose to drain without standing out there to help it," notes one RVer at Jude Travel Park of New Orleans.
Water pressure considerations: Bring regulators for water connections. "Bring a pressure regulator as it seems to be higher than normal pressure," advises an experienced RVer at Bayou Segnette State Park.
Site selection for length: Be careful about site descriptions, especially with larger rigs. "Be careful booking a pull thru site if your unit is over 25', they're horseshoe shaped," warns a camper at Fontainebleau State Park who discovered the site shape made access difficult for longer vehicles.
Dump station location: Some campgrounds have unusual dump station placements. "Dump station is set up with the sewer receptacle in the middle of the lane," notes one RVer about St. Bernard State Park, pointing out this unconventional and potentially challenging design.
