Glamping near Mandeville, Louisiana offers unique bayou and riverside experiences with distinct seasonal events compared to standard camping options. Located in southeast Louisiana where the average elevation is just 7 feet above sea level, the area's subtropical climate creates year-round opportunities for water-based recreation. The region experiences 80-85% humidity during summer months, requiring specific preparation for overnight outdoor stays.
What to do
River tubing adventures: At Bogue Chitto State Park, visitors can enjoy floating down the river during warmer months. "The river offers a nice swimming hole during the summer," mentions Tiffany M., who notes that the park also features "plenty of trails for hiking and biking."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide chances to observe native species in their natural habitat. "We saw plenty of wildlife such as turkey, deer, rabbits, turtles, alligators and birds," reports a Bogue Chitto visitor. For serious alligator enthusiasts, one camper warns: "This place is crawling with gators in the lower portion on the lakes. Hey this is south Louisiana."
Seasonal holiday celebrations: Hidden Oaks Family Campground transforms completely during holidays. "They already have Christmas decorations up, a train ride ready and more! No doubt a great place to bring the family," says Robert M., while another visitor mentions, "This park looks like a blast to come to on holidays for the family."
What campers like
Water recreation access: The ability to launch kayaks directly from campsites ranks high with visitors. At Indian Creek Campground, site 184 was praised as "a great location right across from some water where you can easily put in a kayak." Another camper highlighted that their site "has 2 access areas for kayaks, canoes, etc."
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently value space and separation. "The sites are mostly shady. The streets and sites are gravel and can get a little muddy in spots after a rain," notes David B. At Indian Creek, primitive sites offer remarkable seclusion: "The primitive camping sites are on little peninsulas just big enough for you and your group, so it's truly private."
Free laundry facilities: Unlike many campgrounds that charge for laundry, Tickfaw State Park offers complimentary services. "Free laundry for campers," mentions one reviewer, while another confirms "FREE laundry, elevation 6 ft., dump station, electric, water, showers, flush toilets."
What you should know
Flooding concerns: Low elevation makes water management a persistent issue. "We were in the lower area campsites, which were prone to flash flooding. We actually left a day early due to prediction of rain," cautions a Bogue Chitto visitor. Another camper mentions, "I have had a few of my reservations cancelled by the park when the river is high because the camping areas will flood."
Neighborhood surroundings: Some camping locations sit within unexpected settings. At Three Oaks & A Pine, campers note "the neighborhood isn't the greatest" while others mention "it's not a very safe neighborhood and you can tell by the very loud noises at night (trains, cars spinning etc)."
Insect preparation: The subtropical climate creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes. One camper advises: "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." To manage this, another suggests "keeping the lights off til we were inside the tent was crucial. Those not wanting to feel the Deep South, need not camp here!"
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple campgrounds offer child-friendly water features beyond swimming. "The grandkids loved the splash pad/water slide and easy access to the river," notes Therese A. Another family mentioned their children "loved this place. We would go back tonite if we could."
Halloween festivities: New Orleans West KOA offers special Halloween events. "They do 3 weekends of Halloween in a row and they book crazy fast (we booked a full year in advance)," advises Amanda B., adding, "On Saturday night they close the campground roads down for 2 hours and all the kids go trick or treating. Bring lots of candy!"
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play spaces. "There are places to play volleyball, basketball, and horseshoes. Also a play place for kids with sand pit," reports one visitor, while another mentions that some locations have "a giant slide, 3 pools and a hot tub."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many sites require equipment to achieve level positioning. "Took 2 blocks to level off," mentions one RVer, while another specified "Our site # 57 needed 2 blocks to level" and a third noted their site was "pretty level."
Urban access considerations: For those wanting to explore New Orleans while glamping near Mandeville, New Orleans RV Resort & Marina provides convenient city access. "This is a hidden gem in NOLA, it's fifteen minutes to the action," reports one visitor, while another confirms it's "only 15 minutes to bourbon street and 10 minutes to Frenchmen."
Hookup specifications: RVers should verify electrical options before booking. "Utilities: 20/50A electric near the middle. The 20A receptacle looked like it had some minor burn marks," notes one careful reviewer, while another points out their site featured "15A/30A/50A, water, sewer, and cable TV hookups."
