Lafayette's surrounding wetlands and cypress-filled bayous create a unique ecosystem for camping in southwestern Louisiana. The area sits at an elevation of only 36 feet above sea level with an average annual rainfall of 60 inches, contributing to the lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. Water temperatures in the lakes remain comfortable for swimming from May through September, typically ranging from 75-85°F.
What to do
Kayak fishing without licenses: Poche's RV Park & Fish-N-Camp features five stocked private fishing lakes where no fishing license is required. "Short stay or long stay?? They are great for either. We stayed for 6 days. Loved the fishing," notes visitor Jeff T. who appreciated the convenient lake access.
Canoe the bayou trail system: Lake Fausse Pointe State Park offers paddling routes through cypress forests. "We were able to kayak through a lot of water areas as well! The park rents canoes for people to use if you don't have your own," explains Tara L., who explored the park's extensive water trail network.
Hike bottomland forests: Palmetto Island State Park Campground features distinctive trails through palmetto-filled woodlands. According to Tara L., "The hiking trails are also great and well maintained. The RV spots are spacious and most of them shaded."
Experience Cajun culture events: Lakeview Park hosts regular cultural activities just outside Lafayette. As Carrie I. describes, "We loved our kids' Mardi Gras weekend here. Lots of cultural fun and activities for kids and family... Barn dances on a lot of weekends with live bands."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: "Extra clean, extra relaxing and excellent location of the rv campsites right on the water," explains Taylor G. about Poche's Fish-N-Camp, noting it "immediately became our favorite place to go."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: North Campground — Chicot State Park offers abundant animal sightings. "Great place to visit! Great facilities, Great fishing, Great hiking, Great Arboretum!" reports Toby D., while another camper mentions seeing "big gators especially by the boat ramp."
Seasonal swimming areas: Lakeview Park provides refreshing water recreation during hot Louisiana summers. Jessica B. shares, "Water is cold and refreshing. The property is remarkably clean and well kept! Always a worker around to help!"
Convenient paddling access: "There are a couple of kayak/canoe trails that were great!" states Tara L. about Palmetto Island State Park, mentioning that "The RV spots are spacious and most of them shaded."
What you should know
Insects require preparation: Mosquitoes and other insects are prevalent near the water, especially in warmer months. "I would suggest bug spray since the park is surrounded by water," warns Tara L. about Palmetto Island State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Lake Fausse Pointe State Park Campground has active wildlife that may visit campsites. "Bold Wild hogs came into my site and disturbed my dogs. Hogs stood their ground, and did not back down," reports Lisa S. about her experience at Palmetto Island.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have distinctive water characteristics. At Myers Landing, one camper noted, "the water smelled very badly like metal and we had to turn it off and use our own tank water since it smelled so yucky."
Weekend crowds: Expect more activity during weekends and holidays. A visitor to Chicot State Park mentions "it can get a little crowded and noisy on busy weekends," suggesting weekday visits for a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Myers Landing and RV Park offers lakeside sites perfect for families. "We had a waterfront view and hated to leave to head home. Staff is so nice and accommodating," shares Scott F., highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.
Playground access: Chicot State Park includes recreational facilities specifically for children. One visitor mentions, "they had a great hiking path and playground for our 5 year old. I biked most of the paved roads in the state park and was able to go 13 miles without doubling anywhere."
Educational wildlife viewing: Lake Fausse Pointe provides opportunities for children to learn about local ecosystems. "Fun trails to walk, you'll spot alligators and other critters," notes Lindsey F., who enjoys taking her family for picnics at the park.
Splash pad for hot days: During summer months, several parks offer water features. Chicot State Park has "a splash pad area for keeping cool," which is especially valuable during Louisiana's humid summer days.
Tips from RVers
Utility placement considerations: At Lakeview Park, one RVer advises, "Be sure to bring extra sewer hose, the sewer is a far reach!" Also noting that "The site was gravel and grass, pretty level. Our camper is 27 ft and it fit nicely, though larger ones would have problems."
Access restrictions: Some parks have limitations for larger rigs. A visitor to South Campground — Chicot State Park mentions the campground is "good enough" with "a convenient location and offers hiking, kayaking, boating, and fishing options."
Full hookup availability: Poche's RV Park provides complete services for RVs. "Sewer, electric, and water worked perfect," reports Jeff T., who appreciated the convenient amenities during his six-day stay at this glamping close to Lafayette, Louisiana location.
Level site selection: When booking at glamping resorts near Lafayette, Louisiana, RVers should ask about site levelness. An RVer at Chicot State Park noted their site was "not too bad, definitely needs upgrades," suggesting requesting specific sites for larger vehicles.
