Bogue Chitto State Park offers a recreational experience for horse enthusiasts alongside a variety of other outdoor activities. Located 35 miles northeast of Mandeville, Louisiana, this state park encompasses 1,800 acres of mixed pine-hardwood forest with notable elevation changes ranging from 70 to 135 feet above sea level. The bottomland areas near waterways contrast with upland pine ridges, creating diverse terrain conditions for equestrian camping near Mandeville.
What to do
River access with swimming beaches: Visitors can enjoy the Bogue Chitto River with designated swimming areas during warmer months. "Great bike riding, good family park. River tubing available," notes Connie M. about Bogue Chitto State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The park's lakes and waterways support significant wildlife populations. According to Larry, "This place is crawling with gators in the lower portion on the lakes. Hey this is south Louisiana. Tubing down the River is a big attraction."
Biking on designated trails: Multi-use trails throughout the park accommodate cyclists of various skill levels. As Tiffany M. explains, "Plenty of trails for hiking and biking. The river offers a nice swimming hole during the summer."
Water recreation at nearby parks: For families seeking water-based activities, Land-O-Pines Family Campground offers additional options. Nicole R. mentions, "Older campground with small pool and older water slide but very homey. Shades and grass and dirt roads. Awesome creek that the kids have a blast in."
What campers like
Equestrian facilities accessibility: Horseback riders appreciate the well-developed infrastructure beyond just trails. "Love this park! Lots of room, great hiking. Horse back riding. Clean," reports Amanda B. about Bogue Chitto State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers enjoy observing the diverse wildlife that inhabits the park. Tiffany M. shares, "We saw plenty of wildlife such as turkey, deer, rabbits, turtles, alligators and birds."
Seasonal programming: Holiday events create special experiences for campers. David D. from Land-O-Pines Family Campground reports, "Great site..we went for Halloween weekend and there were alot of activities and trick or treating for the kids..great campsite great memories."
Waterfront camping options: Sites near water features are particularly popular. Reagan S. describes, "site 126 relaxing stream front site nice wooden patio firepit and bbq. park has ponds, lakes, stream, river, beaches, hiking trails, river tubing, horse back riding."
What you should know
Wildlife safety protocols: Alligators are common in waterfront areas and require appropriate caution. Cat R. warns, "Literally, don't feed the gators. There were signs everywhere. Apparently many people don't heed the signs. When my hubby rustled a bag, several alligators swam right up to our site!"
Flash flood potential: Lower elevation sites may experience flooding during heavy rains. Cat R. notes, "We were in the lower area campsites, which were prone to flash flooding. We actually left a day early due to prediction of rain."
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. Alex N. from New Orleans RV Resort & Marina mentions, "The biggest drawbacks are the drive up and the...
