Campgrounds near Norco, Louisiana offer diverse camping experiences beyond the typical Mississippi River corridor settings. Several parks feature distinctive boardwalk systems that allow campers to navigate through wetland environments and bayou ecosystems without getting their feet wet. Elevation throughout camping areas rarely exceeds 10 feet above sea level, creating drainage challenges during Louisiana's frequent rain events. The subtropical climate means winter camping from November through February provides significantly more comfortable conditions than summer months.
What to do
Canoe bayou waterways: Tickfaw State Park Campground offers unique paddling opportunities through cypress and tupelo swamps. "The park is not very large, but big enough not to constantly run into people. On this visit, we took our Christmas pictures along the 'Cypress Gum Trial' - a boardwalk walk trail located across the street from the campsites and around the playground(s)," notes Paula W.
Explore Civil War history: Historical sites near St. Bernard State Park Campground provide educational opportunities. "When here, you are very close to the Chalmette Battlefield National Park and Cemetery where the famous battle of New Orleans took place. This park offers great history lesson and period dressed reenactments," explains a visitor.
Fishing from boardwalk piers: Several parks feature dedicated fishing structures extending into waterways. "There's a cool boardwalk fishing pier that was in good shape. There's a dirt trail that goes around the lake but be aware there are some pretty good sized gators lounging about," warns a Tickfaw visitor.
What campers like
Free laundry facilities: Multiple state parks offer complimentary laundry services. "Free laundry for campers. Our site was lined with woods and gave us the feeling of seclusion," shares Therese A. from Tickfaw State Park. Another camper at Fairview-Riverside State Park appreciated the "3-4 complimentary washers and dryers (not common)."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The wetland environments support diverse animal populations. "We love this campground cause has lots of wildlife," notes a camper at Fontainebleau State Park Campground. Another visitor mentioned, "The raccoons are smart, and not scared of humans, lol."
Security features: Several campgrounds implement extensive security measures. At New Orleans RV Resort & Marina, "The place is fenced at gated for added security." Another reviewer noted it's "a hidden gem in NOLA, it's fifteen minutes to the action. And a beautiful campsite."
What you should know
Water management challenges: Low-lying campsites often experience drainage issues. At Fairview-Riverside, a reviewer 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."
Noise considerations: Urban proximity means some traffic and transportation noise. At French Quarter RV Resort, "I-10 is across the street and a bit loud during the daytime, but less so at night." Another campground reviewer mentioned "Traffic, trains, airplanes and construction noise, you've got it all here. Bring earplugs if your tent camping."
Winter camping advantages: Winter months provide more comfortable conditions. A visitor to Bayou Segnette observed, "coming from camping in Gatlinburg the month before (18 degrees) to here, we were not prepared for how hot and humid and full of bugs it would still be at the end of December."
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: Several parks offer water play areas for children. At St. Bernard State Park, families appreciate "Two good sized playgrounds for kids and a really huge splash pad." Another visitor noted "the splash pad was a huge hit for the little boys. This is the park's main attraction for the locals."
Bike-friendly parks: Paved paths provide safe cycling opportunities. One Fontainebleau visitor mentioned, "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."
Plan for bugs and heat: The subtropical environment requires preparation. A camper recommended, "Pack A Fan - it is the bayou and with that comes a lot of humidity. I suggest a battery operated fan for your tent of RV which can be directionalized toward each party."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Many parks have uneven site quality. At Fairview-Riverside, "The grade on some sites are too much for class A coaches. But if the weather is good and you get a good pad, it's a beautiful campground."
Water pressure considerations: Municipal water systems can have high pressure. At Bayou Segnette, "The water quality is good. Bring a pressure regulator as it seems to be higher than normal pressure. Each site has a picnic bench, fire pin and grill. Asphalt parking area for camper."
RV dump station logistics: Some parks have awkward dump station placement. A visitor to St. Bernard noted, "Dump station is set up with the sewer receptacle in the middle of the lane," while another mentioned the "dump station is located to where you have to use it coming into the park instead of leaving the park."
