Tent camping options near Pearl River, Louisiana include primitive sites in both Louisiana and Mississippi. Located in the subtropical coastal region where temperatures range from 40°F in winter to over 90°F in summer with high humidity, this area offers year-round camping opportunities. Campers should prepare for frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months and occasional flooding in low-lying areas.
What to do
Fishing at lakefront sites: New Orleans RV Resort & Marina provides waterfront camping with fishing opportunities directly from the property. One camper noted, "It's right on the water so you can see yachts and boats come in and out. The grounds are maintained very nicely, beautiful plants etc."
Hiking the Tuxachanie Trail: Airey Lake Recreation Area serves as a midpoint stop for hikers. According to a regular visitor, "This campground is a stop halfway through the Tuxachanie trail. It is a quaint park with 4 designated campsites with tables and fire rings."
Night photography: The dark skies away from urban centers create excellent conditions for astrophotography. A photographer mentioned, "Love to go do nighttime photography here as it is away from towns and the skies are pretty dark. The lake gives a beautiful reflection of the night sky."
What campers like
Proximity to New Orleans: New Orleans RV Resort & Marina offers tent camping with easy access to city attractions. A visitor shared, "Great RV resort and Marina. Right on the canal waterway and only 10 minutes in good traffic to the French Quarter, 20 to the Garden District and zoo."
Secluded spots around the lake: Campers appreciate finding private spaces away from main areas. One camper advised, "Free spot with drinking water. A few actual spots with fire pits and tables, but lots of make shift spots around the lake. Gets really crowded during weekends but if you get there early, you can find a secluded spot."
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. A camper at New Orleans RV Resort noted, "Nice space and plants in between each campsite so you have privacy. The grounds are maintained very nicely, beautiful plants etc."
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Basic amenities mean preparation is essential. A camper at All You Need Institute advised, "Went to see the shower and it was smelly and dirty as heck. It was enough for me to leave after an hour of visit."
Seasonal closures possible: Weather events can affect campground availability. One visitor reported, "It's closed, most are. This one says due to hurricane damage and public safety. They can't get around to fixing it but sure can show up to tell you to leave."
First-come, first-served system: Many primitive sites don't have reservation systems. A camper observed, "Campground is first-come, first-serve, but when we went there were plenty of spaces available. It is quiet and peaceful with lots of space in between each group."
Tips for camping with families
Bring supplies for vault toilets: Facilities at primitive sites require preparation. A visitor advised, "The bathroom was a single toilet and sink. While relatively clean, this is definitely a bring your own TP bathroom."
Look for campgrounds with amenities: All You Need Institute - Yurt & Micro Cabin offers more comfort for families. A visitor described it as "111 Acres to be explored with unique and comfy accommodations. I love all the sweet touches."
Watch for wildlife: Natural camping areas have active insect populations. A camper warned about one site, "Big spiders all over the place, and ants nests everywhere as well, as soon as I got my food out they were all over."
Tips from RVers
Consider security features: Some areas have better security than others. A reviewer at New Orleans RV Resort & Marina mentioned, "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, I know I was."
Check for site amenities: Not all sites have fire rings or tables. A camper noted, "Back-in site with gravel parking and a picnic table. No BBQ pit or fire ring. 15A/30A/50A, water, sewer, and cable TV hookups. Site was pretty level."
Be aware of pricing variations: Costs can vary widely between campgrounds and seasons. One RVer cautioned, "They charge $69 per night, which is far too expensive for my budget. Could be holiday pricing but not sure since requested dates fall after New Years."
