The Pearl River area sits at the border between Louisiana and Mississippi, with an average elevation of just 13 feet above sea level. This low-lying region experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, muggy summers. Camping conditions vary seasonally, with potential flooding in spring and increased wildlife activity during warmer months in the numerous water features throughout the area.
What to do
Biking on paved trails: Fontainebleau State Park features well-maintained biking paths connecting directly to the campground. "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," notes one visitor who appreciates the connectivity to surrounding areas.
Wildlife observation: Bogue Chitto State Park offers multiple ponds, lakes, and a river system hosting diverse wildlife. "We saw plenty of wildlife such as turkey, deer, rabbits, turtles, alligators and birds," reports a camper who explored the park extensively. The park strictly prohibits feeding alligators.
Water recreation: During summer months, several water-based activities become available. "The beach is lovely and the water felt great. There is also a splash pad," explains a Fontainebleau camper. Seasonal water parks operate at some locations between May and September with additional entrance fees.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Buccaneer State Park offers premium beach-adjacent camping spots. "My husband and I stayed at Buccaneer at one of their beachfront spots...The beach front camping sites are on grass with electric and water," explains a visitor who enjoyed direct beach access despite noting, "I will say that the bugs were crazy bad at the beach in the morning and at dusk."
Resort-style amenities: New Orleans RV Resort & Marina provides higher-end facilities just 15 minutes from downtown New Orleans. "The amenities are top notch, the sites are great. The price is a premium, but it's legit," explains one camper. Another adds, "Great RV resort and Marina. Right on the canal waterway and only 10 minutes in good traffic to the French Quarter."
Natural setting: Many Pearl River area cabins feature wooded surroundings with water views. "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," reports a Bogue Chitto visitor who appreciates the diverse natural features.
What you should know
Seasonal site conditions: Low-lying campgrounds may experience flooding during rainy seasons. "We actually left a day early due to prediction of rain. We were in the lower area campsites, which were prone to flash flooding," notes one Bogue Chitto visitor who monitored weather forecasts carefully.
Access challenges: Some cabins near Pearl River have complicated access roads. Land-O-Pines Family Campground visitor noted, "The streets and sites are gravel and can get a little muddy in spots after a rain." Another campground reports, "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!"
Accessibility considerations: Cabin accommodations vary in wheelchair accessibility. One visitor to Abita Springs RV Resort explained specific challenges: "They could have a better threshold to enter and exit the building. The ladies rest room did have a handicapped stall with a grab bar and plenty of room for my chair. However it needs a chair height toilet. The roads are full of loose rocks where my chair got stuck 2x."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Sun Roamers RV Resort provides family-friendly water recreation. "Very friendly and helpful staff. The grounds are clean. We are here Easter weekend and it's a little noisy, but not bad," reports one family who stayed during a holiday weekend.
Playground access: When booking cabin accommodations with children, check for on-site playgrounds. "Lots of trees and shade, paved roads for kids to ride bikes, large playground area, some short hiking trails," reports a Buccaneer State Park visitor, while another campground visitor noted, "I wish there would have been a playground in the campground, but I understand they typically have snowbirds and not a lot of young couples with kids."
Holiday activities: Several campgrounds organize seasonal events for families. "We went for Halloween weekend and there were alot of activities and trick or treating for the kids..great campsite great memories," shares a Land-O-Pines visitor who appreciates the organized programming for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: At Fontainebleau State Park, larger rigs require careful site selection. "Be careful booking a pull thru site if your unit is over 25', they're horseshoe shaped. We could not fit on a pull thru site, and Betty at the entrance was awesome and found us the perfect back-in site," advises one RVer with a larger unit.
Urban camping access: Abita Springs RV Resort provides a woodsy setting with convenient access to town amenities. "This is out in the woods but only a short drive to shopping and dining," notes one visitor. Another adds, "Visit the nearby abita springs cafe for great breakfasts and of course the brewery for good beer. Cute little town area and farmers market very close."
Service availability: Cell reception varies significantly between cabin locations. "AT&T had 2 bars of LTE and Verizon full bars of LTE service. AT&T Speedtest: 30.8 Mbps down, 3.6 Mbps up. Verizon Speedtest: 4.5 Mbps down, 11.8 Mbps up," reported a Land-O-Pines visitor who tracked connectivity details for both major carriers.
