Bayou Segnette State Park Campground sits just a few miles from Metairie, providing access to both urban amenities and natural swampland ecosystems. The park features waterfront camping options with wooden platforms that keep tents and equipment dry in the often-soggy bayou environment. Seasonal temperatures range from hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F to milder winters where overnight temperatures can occasionally drop below 40°F.
What to do
Levee walking trails: Near New Orleans West KOA in River Ridge, guests can access Mississippi River levee walking paths within a 10-minute walk. "The staff was super friendly. We stayed there while I was doing some community service in New Orleans, and it was very convenient. It's about 25 minutes from the French Quarter," notes Sam M.
Swamp boardwalks: Tickfaw State Park Campground offers elevated boardwalk hiking trails through cypress gum forests. "We took a few hikes around the river as well as some late night walks along the boardwalk hoping to see a gator. Saw some cool wildlife none the less though," writes Allyse, who visited the park in 2021.
Waterfront recreation: The primitive camping area at Indian Creek Campground provides direct water access for paddlers. Lee T. reports, "Hung out in the primitive area for a few days with my dog Dahli. Lots of wildlife (human and otherwise)! Overall a great trip."
What campers like
Convenient urban access: Glamping close to Metairie, Louisiana puts you within easy reach of New Orleans while avoiding city prices. "This campground is nice because its super close to everything. It's about 25 minutes from the French Quarter," explains a camper at New Orleans West KOA.
Waterfront sites: Bayou Segnette State Park Campground offers sites with wooden platforms, fire rings and deck areas. "Pads are level, wooden deck fire ring, plenty of room for tents, laundry room bathroom & showers were clean," reports Lisa P., who stayed there with her family.
Free laundry facilities: State parks in the area often provide complimentary laundry services, a rare amenity for campgrounds. A visitor to Tickfaw State Park noted, "Free laundry for campers. Our site was lined with woods and gave us the feeling of seclusion."
What you should know
Seasonal bugs and humidity: Summer months bring intense insect activity, particularly mosquitoes. Seth P. from Bayou Segnette observes it's a "Nicely wooded campground. Some ambient traffic noise. This is a good campground for day trips into NOLA."
Neighborhood settings: Some RV parks near Metairie operate in residential areas. Craig F. from New Orleans West KOA shares, "This campground is in a neighborhood. Seems odd, but it works. They have night security. With the AC on, it was pleasant. Our site was a level concrete pad."
Industrial approaches: New Orleans RV Resort & Marina requires driving through industrial zones to reach it. "The road to get here is rough though, it's through an industrial park and looks very concerning, but then you come and find this! So nice. It's also secured for those that are worried," explains Alana F.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween festivities: Hidden Oaks Family Campground hosts special seasonal activities. "This campground has a great location. It has great festive activities for the seasonal holidays and a general laid back mind set year round. Halloween decorations were in full effect," reports Shaun B.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer pools or water features to combat the heat. At Hidden Oaks, "The campground has a river running through it making it a great option to go up river and kayak back down," according to a recent visitor.
Playgrounds and activity areas: Family-oriented campgrounds in the region frequently include play equipment. One camper at Bayou Segnette notes, "Bathrooms were kept clean. My boys enjoyed the fishing. Short drive to French Quarter."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites in the Metairie area require blocks for proper leveling. At Tickfaw State Park, one RVer mentioned, "We got 2 bars on Verizon. They actually have a laundry room with 3 washers and dryers costing both $1.75 to wash & dry."
Site spacing concerns: Campgrounds closer to New Orleans tend to pack RVs more tightly. A visitor to New Orleans West KOA commented, "The spaces are a bit tight, only RV spots have a fire pit. Showers are well kept but the place smells musty. Very safe area and convenient shopping places nearby."
Weather considerations: The region's high humidity and rainfall can create muddy conditions. "Large campsite with 100 spots filled mostly with RVs. Very clean laundry room! Loads were $1.75. Hot showers. Stop at Joe's Donuts for beignets," advises Caitlin R. from Bayou Segnette.
