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Campgrounds surrounding Mandeville, Louisiana provide a mix of natural settings along the northern shore of Lake Pontchartrain and nearby waterways. Fontainebleau State Park Campground serves as a central camping hub with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Other nearby options include Fairview-Riverside State Park in Madisonville and Abita Springs RV Resort, both offering mixed-use facilities within a 30-minute drive of Mandeville. The terrain features distinctive Louisiana landscapes with Spanish moss-draped live oaks, swampy wetlands, and lake access points that create varied camping environments across public and private lands.
Seasonal considerations affect camping experiences throughout the region, with high humidity and insects being notable factors during summer months. Most established campgrounds remain open year-round, though many campers prefer spring and fall visits to avoid peak heat and mosquito activity. Water levels in nearby rivers can impact trail accessibility, particularly after heavy rainfall when boardwalks and low-lying areas may flood. Hurricane season (June through November) occasionally forces temporary closures, with sites reopening gradually after cleanup operations. Cell service is generally reliable across most developed campgrounds, with both AT&T and Verizon providing strong coverage. A visitor noted, "We stayed here a little over two weeks in mid-February 2019. We really enjoyed this park. It does get very busy on the weekend, but the area we were in was still quiet and peaceful."
Waterfront access represents a major draw for campers at Fontainebleau State Park, which features direct frontage on Lake Pontchartrain with swimming areas, fishing piers, and scenic views. The Tammany Trace bike trail runs through the park, connecting campers to nearby communities without requiring vehicle transportation. Several campgrounds in the area provide shaded sites beneath mature trees, offering natural cooling during hot months. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with multiple reviewers mentioning deer sightings within campground boundaries. A recent review highlighted the natural setting: "The grounds are immaculate with huge Spanish moss covered Live Oaks throughout the park." Though sites tend to be close together at most established campgrounds, the abundance of trees creates visual breaks between camping areas. Many campgrounds feature modern amenities including laundry facilities, clean restrooms, and camp stores, making the region suitable for both rustic tent camping and fully-equipped RV travel.
"There is a decent breeze because of Lake Ponchatrain. We brought bikes and rode to the beach and also did part of the Tammany Trace, which runs through the park."
"We were on spot #138 and were close to the dump and the camp host. Very convenient for using the tote. This is a bit older park, but we liked it. "
"Had a playground for the kids next to campsite. Walking distance to a picturesque river with lily’s and mangrove trees."
"We always enjoy our stopover night here on the drive to Alabama. It is our go-to place. The Otis House tour and other artifacts are interesting and worth the time."
from $18 - $33 / night
Check Availability"I enjoyed walking and sitting along the lake in the mornings. The noise from the interstate was a small detraction. Bathrooms could have used a little more attention."
"Beautifully kept resort with nice full hook up camspots, fences in dog park, pools for adults and kids, camp store, bar, grill, lake and hot tub."
from $45 - $130 / night
Check Availability"Nice RV pads next to the fishing pond. Scenic nature trails and wildlife. This is out in the woods but only a short drive to shopping and dining."
"They could have a better threshold to enter and exit the building. The ladies rest room did have a handicapped ♿ stall with a grab bar and plenty of room for my chair."
"We visited Bogue Chitto after torrential rains pummeled Louisiana and Mississippi causing the park to cancel our site we had reserved with a water view in the Bottomland Loop."
"We were pleasantly surprised by the nice views, great tent campsites, cold river access, and access to restaurants even though camp feels remote."
from $25 / night
Check Availability"Land-O-Pines is a nice private RV park near Folsom and Covington. We stayed two nights because my daughter was in a horse competition at a nearby horse farm. The sites are mostly shady."
"You must have a (free) permit on Louisiana’s app LDWF WMA & sign in & out. I def recommend & I’ll be coming back if I need to camp out near NOLA!!"
"Nice little stop outside of New Orleans for the night. Arrived late at night and there was one other person here. It was raining so I just decided to sleep in the car."
from $7 / night
Check Availability"The store on site gives easy access to any items you may have forgotten. Live music happens on special weekends, as well as holiday related activities for kids."
"I'll be honest, the campground is old and run down and I probably wouldn't visit here outside of Halloween but highly recommended for some great family Halloween fun!"
from $40 - $75 / night
Check Availability"this campground has been around for a long time. It has great festive activities for the seasonal holidays and a general laid back mind set year round. Halloween decorations were in full effect. "
"Great place to camp or stop if you want to visit New Orleans or surrounding areas."
from $50 / night
Check Availability"This is a great park tucked away from everything yet only 15 minutes to bourbon street and 10 minutes to Frenchmen. Great place to stay on the water."
"2 roadways to enter/exit resort. A car can drive toward north but some potholes would not advise RV on road toward lake pontchaitrain."
from $75 - $170 / night
Check Availability
TravelerPerfect for a free spot. Porta potties there are normally cleaned. Right next to a welcome center as well that is patrolled by sheriffs. Car camping and boondocking so free spots are always nice.
TravelerGreat staff and grounds. Worth the price tag
ScoutMy husband and I took our 3 small children to camp and visit the waterpark for the weekend. The RV sites in Treasure Cove are worth it if you are going in the dead heat of summer, as the many shade trees help keep you cooler to enjoy sitting outside. Would definitely visit again!
ScoutMy wife and I have been camping here every year and every year it’s been great. And the best part most of the people mind their own business
ScoutIn a rather industrial area, but the park is beautiful. Palms, marina, it's like an oasis. It's close to all attractions - just couldn't be better
RangerThis is a small campground, but overall it’s a good place to stay. The positives: The location is very convenient. It’s easy to get to the Basin Lot with an RV, where you can park a large vehicle for $12 for up to 10 hours and then walk to the French Quarter in about five minutes. The bathrooms and showers were clean, and the host was genuinely friendly and welcoming.
The downsides: The noise from the nearby road and train tracks can be quite noticeable. That said, since you're staying in a city, it’s hard to expect complete peace and quiet at night. As other reviewers have mentioned, the surrounding neighborhood isn’t the best, and we unfortunately experienced that ourselves. We went outside the campground one evening and immediately had an unpleasant encounter, which led us to return to the campground fairly quickly. Of course, this isn’t the campground’s fault. The property itself is well secured with gates and fences, and we felt safe while inside. If you're looking for a campground as a base for exploring New Orleans during the day, I can definitely recommend it. I would just suggest avoiding walking around the area after sunset.
ScoutAmenities were great, very friendly staff. No shade
ScoutThis campground is very clean, roads are stone and wide, there is plenty of shade. They have a pool and wading pool, fishing in the lake, weekend activities for kids and adults workers are friendly and helpful
ScoutIt was amazing friendly staff the owner is hands on and is nice. Nice pool River and pond to fish in. We loved it all. Showers was very nice
Mandeville camping offers natural diversity beyond Lake Pontchartrain's shoreline. The region features a mix of bayou wetlands, piney forests, and river access points at elevations ranging from 7 to 30 feet above sea level. Water drainage issues affect lower-lying campgrounds after heavy rainfall, requiring campers to check site conditions and weather forecasts.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Bogue Chitto State Park Campground, campers regularly spot diverse native species. "We saw plenty of wildlife such as turkey, deer, rabbits, turtles, alligators and birds," writes Tiffany M. The park features multiple ecosystems within its boundaries.
Biking on paved trails: Many campgrounds connect to the 31-mile Tammany Trace trail system. "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," notes Gregg G. about his stay at Fontainebleau State Park Campground.
Water recreation activities: Several campgrounds offer river and lake access points. At Land-O-Pines Family Campground, "There is a river that runs right through the campground," notes Cat R., making it ideal for kayaking. Campers should bring their own equipment or check rental availability.
Seasonal events: Holiday-themed weekends draw large crowds at many campgrounds. "We went for Halloween weekend and there were a lot of activities and trick or treating for the kids," reports David D. Local campgrounds often decorate extensively and organize special activities during major holidays.
Spacious, private sites: While many campgrounds have closely spaced sites, some offer more secluded options. At Fairview-Riverside State Park, "It's a nice quiet and clean park on the banks of the Tchefunte River just above Madisonville," writes Dean and Dodie B.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between campgrounds. A reviewer at Sun Outdoors New Orleans North Shore (formerly Reunion Lake RV Resort) noted, "Our kids loved the lazy river. We stayed in site 202 and it was ideal as we have a class A and flat tow a Jeep and didn't want to unhook for the one night."
On-site amenities: Campgrounds range from basic to resort-style. "The site was a nice level concrete lot. The only downside on this trip was the store was closed for renovations," wrote Jen O. about her stay. Many campers appreciate concrete pads that stay dry during wet conditions.
Wildlife encounters: Natural settings provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We love this campground cause has lots of wildlife," notes Danny about Fontainebleau State Park. Alligator sightings are common at water-adjacent sites, with some campgrounds posting warning signs.
Water drainage issues: Low-elevation areas experience flooding after rainfall. At Fairview-Riverside State Park, one camper noted, "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."
Site layouts vary widely: Even within the same campground, site quality differs significantly. At Fontainebleau State Park Campground, Martha S.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest campgrounds to Mandeville for weekend getaways?
Fairview-Riverside State Park is one of the closest options for weekend getaways from Mandeville. This compact Louisiana state park features two camping loops, with sites near the river being particularly desirable. The park offers laundry facilities, a short boardwalk trail, and boat launches, making it ideal for quick escapes. Another excellent nearby option is Abita Springs RV Resort, which provides water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly for those traveling with larger RVs or campers.
Are there waterfront camping areas available in Mandeville?
Yes, several waterfront camping options exist near Mandeville. Tickfaw State Park Campground offers excellent waterfront camping opportunities with a splash park and beautiful trails including the scenic Cypress Gum Trail. For those seeking a river setting, Pearl River WMA - Crawford Landing provides primitive camping on a small open field beside the river. Though basic (no bathrooms or water), it offers a quiet, safe waterfront experience. Just remember that a free permit is required through Louisiana's LDWF WMA app, and visitors must sign in and out.
Where are the best camping spots in Mandeville?
Fontainebleau State Park Campground is widely considered one of the best camping spots in the Mandeville area. The park offers easy access to Lake Pontchartrain with a refreshing breeze off the water. The campground is particularly appealing for cyclists, as the Tammany Trace runs through the park and connects directly to downtown Mandeville (about 4 miles from the camping area). The park gets busy on weekends but still maintains a peaceful atmosphere, with both short-term and long-term camping options available.
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