Louisiana's glamping destinations near Franklin offer rustic luxury amid bayou country. The region sits at the junction of multiple waterways with an average elevation of only 7 feet above sea level. Glamping sites here provide waterfront access to fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing opportunities in a subtropical climate that supports diverse ecosystems.
What to do
Canoe to remote island campsites: Lake Fausse Pointe State Park Campground features paddle-in primitive sites accessible only by water. "Nice primitive campsite on an island that you get to by boat (motor boat/canoe/kayak). Site is also known as Highland Waters campsite. Nice big flat area under trees including large live oaks to set up your tents or hammocks under," explains reviewer Mike V.
Fish without a license: Poche's RV Park & Fish-N-Camp maintains stocked private fishing lakes where state licenses aren't required. "Three big stocked fishing lakes. Private lakes so no license needed," notes James R. The campground has recently expanded its offerings with "new children playground equipment. And their fishing has gotten better."
Explore hiking trails: Palmetto Island State Park Campground offers walking paths through bottomland hardwood forest. "We stayed in 2016 and it was one of the best and cleanest state park campgrounds we've ever stayed at," shares one camper. Another adds, "We had a great 5 mile walk around the park, and that was the paved roads."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Glamping in Franklin, Louisiana provides excellent waterfront access with privacy. "The RV site was big enough for our bumper pull, but there was a large tree on the site that kept us from being able to put out the awning," notes Tara L. about Lake Fausse Pointe. "Campground is well maintained and plenty of sites are available," adds another camper about Palmetto Island's layout.
Wildlife viewing: Lake End Park Campground & Marina offers frequent wildlife encounters. "The fishing is fantastic down here and the wildlife is incredible. You will see alligators of course along with rabbits, black squirrels, osprey bald eagles as well as seagulls and pelicans given our close proximity to the gulf coast," writes Matt R.
Free laundry facilities: Some luxury glamping sites include practical amenities. "Complete with free laundry!" reports a visitor to Palmetto Island State Park. Another campground reviewer notes, "The office has people working in it every day of the week and there is a Coke machine at the office and they do sell 8 pound bags of ice for $2."
What you should know
Bridge clearance issues: RVers with tall vehicles should plan routes carefully. "First of all, if your rig is over 10' tall, don't come in through Butte LaRose, there's a bridge you won't get across! Come in through Henderson," warns Tom C. about accessing Lake Fausse Pointe.
Insect preparation: Kemper Williams Parish Park and other area campgrounds require serious bug protection. "Bring strong bug spray. Went to go to one of the paddle in sites or backpack sites however was warned the mosquitoes were horrible," advises Tyler H. Another camper notes, "The bugs are gnarly, no getting around it."
Cell service limitations: Many glamping sites near Franklin have limited connectivity. "There is no cell service anywhere in the park. Supposedly there is wi-fi in some areas but they couldn't tell me where that was and I never found it," reports a camper. Another notes, "WiFi sucks. Cell signals in and out - I would not be doing conference calls from here."
Tips for camping with families
Man-made beach access: Families appreciate the swimming areas at several parks. "Nice with a man made beach. Has a boat launch with access to large lake and bayous. Good fishing from bank or boat," explains Mark J. about Lake End Park. Another visitor adds, "Kids love the man made beach. Adults love the fishing and marina."
Playground availability: Multiple campgrounds offer play structures. "Great fishing, swimming, playground, walking trails! We had to be in this area for work and so glad we found this lake!" shares Jules H. about Lake End Park. Another camper notes the "concession stand offering donuts, hot foods and frozen treats on site."
Wildlife safety: Parents should supervise children around water. "Fun trails to walk, you'll spot alligators and other critters," warns Lindsey F. Another adds, "Nice campground. Great place to launch you're boat and enjoy fishing. There's a man made beach that's nice for the kids and a really nice playground. They do have lots of snakes in the rocks along the water that like to 'sun' themselves. Also it's full of gators. So watch your kiddos in the water and pets."
Tips from RVers
Water and electric details: Poche's RV Park offers full hookups on concrete pads. "Site #65 for three nights. Well maintained park with clean facilities and laundry. (Bring quarters. Nearby Dollar General dispenses them by the roll). Sites in the circles at end of campground roads offer the most space and privacy with water and electric," advises Lisa S.
Road conditions: Access roads to some parks may present challenges. "Gravel roads good condition. Has a boat landing with fresh water fishing," notes Mark J. about Palmetto Island. However, another camper warns, "Drive in is miserable. With fees, it was $30 per night with additional $6 one-off reservation fee. Few sites have septic. Elec and water fine."
Weekend considerations: Some parks have different weekend atmospheres. "Crazy Cajuns get rowdy on weekends at the clubhouse. Join them you won't regret it. If anything watch for amazing sunsets and sunrises!" suggests Jeff T. about Poche's. Another mentions, "They have live entertainment on Saturday nights and installed a new security system."
