Camping near New Orleans, Louisiana offers options 5-30 minutes from the French Quarter, with most sites nestled among bayou landscapes at elevations near sea level. The subtropical climate creates humid conditions year-round, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 40°F. Mosquitoes remain active even in December due to persistent humidity.
What to do
Explore bayou wildlife: Bayou Segnette State Park Campground offers direct access to local ecosystems just 20-30 minutes from New Orleans. "Short drive to Barataria Preserve for seeing wildlife. Sites are large but watch what side your picnic table may be on," notes Tara W., who appreciated the convenient location.
Visit historic plantations: New Orleans West KOA provides a central base for both city and historical exploration. "It was a good base to work from, about 25 minutes from the downtown museums and convenient to places like Destrehan Plantation and Bayou Segnette State Park," reports Art Z., who stayed for a week while exploring the region.
Try water recreation: Many campgrounds offer water access for boating, fishing or swimming. McLeod Park Campground features riverside camping with boat launches. "Great campsites, love the view of the river and the nature hike, plus being able to bring the boat!" explains Rebecca H.
What campers like
Proximity to French Quarter: Three Oaks & A Pine RV Park offers one of the closest camping options to downtown. "This park is essentially a gravel lot with full RV hookups. That said, you're paying roughly $30 a night to be about ten minutes by car from the French Quarter. It's a $8 Uber ride in non peak times," writes Jessica C.
Security features: New Orleans RV Resort & Marina (formerly Lake Pontchartrain Landing) offers gated security that campers appreciate. "The security is great... It's also secured for those that are worried, I know I was," mentions Alana F.
Free laundry facilities: Bayou Segnette State Park Campground offers uncommon campground amenities. "Bathrooms are centrally placed on each of the two camping loops and include free laundry and playgrounds," notes Crystal C., who appreciated the unexpected perk during her stay.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Humidity affects camping comfort year-round. "We were not prepared for how hot and humid and full of bugs it would still be at the end of December. Lesson learned!" shares Sonyia W. about her Bayou Segnette stay.
Industrial surroundings: Wolf River Resort and other parks near New Orleans often have industrial approaches. "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!" explains Alana F. about New Orleans RV Resort.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Costs vary significantly during peak periods and holidays. "Called this campground today—they changed their name to New Orleans RV Resort & Marina. It's a holiday season so I expected them to be busy, and they were. They charge $69 per night," reports Katherine D.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pads and playgrounds: Hidden Oaks Family Campground offers water features specifically for children. "They have a splash pad and playground for the kids. The bathhouse only has two showers. There isn't alot of water pressure. It is hot water though," explains Ann H.
Holiday programming: Several campgrounds offer special themed weekends throughout the year. "We go every year for Halloween, run down but still fun for kids to trick or treat. Cabins are decent if have friends that need someplace to stay," shares Nicole R. about Adventures RV Resort.
Budget-friendly transportation: Some campgrounds provide shuttle options. "The KOA offers transportation to the French Quarter for free! It was such a nice perk!" notes Jen H. about New Orleans West KOA, saving families transportation costs.
Tips from RVers
Alternative routes: The approaches to glamping close to New Orleans, Louisiana often involve navigating industrial areas. "Apple Maps guided me right to the park. When you first get off the Interstate, the area looks abandoned and a little sketchy, but it is ok," explains David B. about his stay at New Orleans RV Resort.
Water pressure considerations: Land-O-Pines Family Campground and other local sites may require equipment adjustments. "The water quality is good. Bring a preasure regulator as it seems to be higher than normal preasure," advises Ron R. about his weeklong stay at Bayou Segnette.
Leveling challenges: Many sites in the region require proper equipment. "The campsite was quite muddy due to the large amount of rain recently. Took 2 blocks to level off," reports Cat R., who stayed at Hidden Oaks Family Campground despite the conditions.
