Camping options near Ponchatoula, Louisiana extend beyond developed RV parks to include state parks with diverse recreational activities. The area sits at an elevation of just 26 feet above sea level, making it susceptible to seasonal flooding, particularly during spring and summer rainstorms. Some campgrounds feature fishing ponds and lakes, while others provide access to rivers and creeks that flow through the low-lying terrain.
What to do
Kayak on local waterways: At Tickfaw State Park Campground, visitors can explore the park's river systems when water levels permit. One camper noted, "Took a few hikes around the river as well as some late night walks along the boardwalk hoping to see a gator (no such luck). Saw some cool wildlife none the less though."
Fish from boardwalks: The fishing opportunities extend beyond the larger lakes to smaller ponds with dedicated structures. A visitor at Tickfaw State Park mentioned, "There's a small fishing lake behind the CG down a short road between sites 15 and 17. The lake has a cool boardwalk fishing pier that was in good shape."
Bike on park trails: Fontainebleau State Park Campground offers extensive biking opportunities. A recent camper shared, "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."
Relax at water attractions: For those seeking structured water recreation, Fireside RV Resort provides several options. A visitor explained, "Beautiful pool, lazy river, and pond. The pool area and bar was a good mix for adults while the kids played."
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campgrounds near Ponchatoula offer sites with reasonable separation. At Fireside RV Resort, one camper highlighted, "Site #26 is very spacious (probably one of the largest pull-through areas - and perfectly quiet. Lots of green, grassy area and no campers on top of your space!"
Free laundry facilities: Unlike many campgrounds that charge for laundry, Fairview-Riverside State Park provides this amenity at no cost. A camper appreciated, "3-4 complimentary washers and dryers (not common)."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural areas around camping spots near Ponchatoula provide good wildlife watching. At Fontainebleau State Park, a visitor noted, "We love this campground cause has lots of wildlife," while another mentioned, "The raccoons are smart, and not scared of humans, lol."
Halloween celebrations: Seasonal events make certain times especially popular at some campgrounds. A visitor to Adventures RV Resort shared, "4 days here and everyday was great. Their Halloween was this weekend and had a blast."
What you should know
Water problems after rain: The low-lying geography means some camping spots near Ponchatoula struggle with drainage. At Fairview-Riverside State Park, a reviewer warned, "I want to give them a 5, but 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."
Senior discounts available: Louisiana state parks offer substantial price reductions for older campers. At Tickfaw State Park, a visitor discovered, "LA State Parks give a 50% discount for seniors 62+ and you don't have to be a state resident. The ranger processed a refund for us as he checked us in. You cannot beat $10 a night for this park."
Hurricane recovery ongoing: Some facilities still show damage from recent storms. A visitor to Tickfaw State Park observed, "You cannot beat $10 a night for this park even though its still recovering from hurricane Ida and the boardwalk trails and canoe rentals were still closed."
Traffic noise varies by site: Proximity to highways affects the camping experience at certain locations. At Lakeside RV Park, a camper mentioned, "If I had to list a drawback, the traffic on the main road was very loud throughout the night, even with a large privacy fence."
Tips for camping with families
Covered playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature sheltered play areas ideal for hot Louisiana days. At Lakeside RV Park, a visitor appreciated, "Love the amenities they provided we loved the playground that was covered which allowed us to play with our kids in the heat of the day and even with rain."
Bike-friendly roads: Flat terrain makes many campgrounds ideal for children cycling. At Indian Creek Campground, a camper noted, "There are brand new full hook ups with water and sewer that have been ideal. Also lots of relatively flat roads to bike on with family. There's a new playground for the kids that our son especially likes to bike over to."
Halloween activities: Fall brings special events at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Adventures RV Resort explained, "I have only been to Yogi Bear for Halloween but it's the best Halloween fun ever! Everyone decorates their campsites, there's hayrides and haunted houses. They have plenty of scheduled activities to keep the kids busy all day."
Wildlife awareness: Parents should note the natural inhabitants of these areas. At Tickfaw State Park, one camper warned, "Had a couple of snakes show up creeping under our camper. After that I just couldn't enjoy it, lol. Nice trails where we saw a couple of alligators."
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: The layout of some campgrounds can present backing difficulties. At Fontainebleau State Park, a camper advised, "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 that made our stay amazing!"
Concrete pad benefits: Some RV parks offer fully paved sites that enhance stability. At Lakeside RV Park, a visitor observed, "Really nice park very well maintained. Exceptionally maintained. All concrete sites and a beautiful lake."
Distance to New Orleans: The camping areas provide access to the city without urban prices. At Fairview-Riverside State Park, a camper noted, "We used it as a base camp to go into New Orleans for a weekend (50 mins)."
Power stability: Electrical service quality can vary among campgrounds. At Fairview-Riverside State Park, a reviewer appreciated, "No dip in electricity at peak usage. Good water pressure."
