Camping near Lacombe, Louisiana centers on several distinct environments from bayou wetlands to lakefront sites. The area sits at low elevations with many campgrounds below 10 feet above sea level, contributing to drainage issues during heavy rains. Temperatures average 92°F in summer months with high humidity, making spring and fall typically more comfortable for tent campers.
What to do
Bike riding on paved trails: Fontainebleau State Park Campground offers excellent biking opportunities on their paved trails. "We enjoyed riding our bikes around the campground and the trails in the park. We also, took the trace to town and rode along the lake," mentions Gregg G. The trails connect different sections of the park and lead to waterfront areas.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies provide fishing access points. At Fairview-Riverside State Park, you'll find a boardwalk on the Tchefuncte River with fishing spots. "There is a beautiful boardwalk on the Tchefuncte River, though, with great fishing," notes Brandon R. The riverside location offers both bank fishing and boat launch access.
Kayaking and canoeing: At Pearl River WMA - Crawford Landing, paddlers can explore bayou waterways. "We stopped here on the way from Texas to Florida for one night. Absolutely beautiful and peaceful," shares Michelle. While some campgrounds rent equipment, Crawford Landing requires bringing your own watercraft.
Wildlife viewing: Wildlife watching opportunities abound throughout the region. "We love this campground cause has lots of wildlife," notes Danny about Fontainebleau State Park. Sites near water edges typically offer better wildlife viewing, particularly early morning or evening hours when animals are most active.
What campers like
Accessible bathrooms: Clean, maintained facilities receive consistent positive mentions. At Reunion Lake RV Resort, "Bathrooms were clean everytime I went, which is just as much about the guests as the staff," according to Jason N. During winter months, heated bathrooms are particularly appreciated by campers at Fairview-Riverside State Park: "It was a cold weekend and was very pleased that the bathrooms were heated," mentions Gregory M.
Swimming options: Water recreation areas provide relief from summer heat. Buccaneer State Park Campground includes multiple water features: "They have a pool and water park. The water park has a water slide and wave pool. A separate swimming pool also accessible with water park pass," explains Naomi F. Some parks charge additional fees for water park access.
Proximity to NOLA: The area serves as a convenient base for New Orleans excursions. Bayou Segnette State Park Campground offers a good location about 20-30 minutes from the city. "Perfect spot for camping outside of the city. The facilities were clean and well maintained," shares Tara W. This location allows campers to explore both natural areas and urban attractions.
What you should know
Drainage issues: Low-lying campgrounds often experience standing water problems. "They have a water problem. It doesn't take much rain to have standing water in many sites. Lots of the pads are old and narrow. You find yourself stepping out your coach into sloppy mud," warns Dean and Dodie B. about Fairview-Riverside State Park. After heavy rains, ask for higher elevation sites when possible.
Wildlife encounters: Local fauna includes raccoons that may approach campsites. "A family of raccoons must have been fed by someone, though, as they had NO fear nor qualms of coming right up to our table end one evening," notes Michael B. at Fontainebleau State Park. Another camper mentions: "The raccoons are smart, and not scared of humans," adds Megin F.
Permit requirements: Some wildlife management areas require permits. At Pearl River WMA, "You must have a (free) permit on Louisiana's app LDWF WMA & sign in & out," explains Emely. Permits can typically be obtained online through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website or app.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Large campground with 100 spots filled mostly with RVs... very clean laundry room! Loads were $1.75... hot showers... stop at Joe's Donuts for beignets," recommends Caitlin R. about Bayou Segnette State Park.
Beach alternatives: Buccaneer State Park Campground provides both water recreation and beach proximity. "We came to play disc golf. It was a very nice course. Loved our campsite. It backed up to some woods & had a lot of space. There is a water park as well. Close proximity to a beautiful beach," shares Brie M. Many families opt for sites near amenities to minimize walking distances with children.
Protected swimming areas: Designated swimming zones offer safer water recreation. "Great paved bike trail that you can get to from the campground. Be careful booking a pull thru site if your unit is over 25', they're horseshoe shaped," advises Martha S. about Fontainebleau State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Pay attention to campsite configurations when booking. "We do not recommend this site for any pull trailers over 35'. The good thing about 138 is that it's one of the few spacious sites in the CG. The sites across the road are smaller and closer to each other," shares MickandKarla W. at Fontainebleau State Park.
Utilities information: Water pressure can vary between campgrounds. At Bayou Segnette State Park, "I was here for a week. The security is great. The spots are quite level. The water quality is good. Bring a pressure regulator as it seems to be higher than normal pressure," advises ron R.
Connectivity options: Cell service and WiFi availability differ across locations. "AT&T cell service was 5G. Handicap bathrooms are decent but lights are motion censored so can turn off on you while you are in the shower," notes Maggie C. about Fairview-Riverside State Park.
