Slidell sits in a subtropical climate zone where year-round camping opportunities exist with mild winters and humid summers. The area around Slidell combines marshlands and woodlands, creating diverse habitats that attract wildlife watchers and anglers. Temperatures range from 40°F in winter to above 90°F during summer months, with higher humidity levels from May through September.
What to do
Fishing in pearl river: Crawford Landing at Pearl River WMA offers access to productive fishing waters for both bank and boat anglers. "We stayed here on the way from Texas to Florida for one night. Absolutely beautiful and peaceful. There were about five other campers spread out across the grassy field, but it felt very private," notes Michelle in her review of Pearl River WMA.
Attend seasonal events: Bay St. Louis hosts numerous festivals throughout the year near camping areas. "We stayed at this campground for a month and LOVED it. It's in a great location for the beach and had plenty of space for our kids to play," writes Emily R. about her stay at Bay Hide Away RV Park And Campground.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds offer water access for swimming and boating. "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. The beach is lovely and the water felt great. There is also a splash pad," says Gregg G. about Fairview-Riverside State Park.
What campers like
Private sites with natural boundaries: Mature trees and vegetation create separation between many campsites. "Quiet, clean, well kept park with pretty river side views. We stayed here for 11 nights in Feb while traveling though the area. We used it as a base camp to go into New Orleans for a weekend (50 mins)," shares Jason N. about Fairview-Riverside State Park.
Availability of boat access: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Slidell offer boat ramps. "Great campsites, love the view of the river and the nature hike, plus being able to bring the boat!" Rebecca H. says about McLeod Park Campground.
Easy day trips to New Orleans: Campers appreciate being able to visit the city without staying in it. "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. Clean spacious spots, freshly paved," reports Jeff M. about New Orleans RV Resort & Marina.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "The coordinates are a little misleading. They take you to a neighborhood. You should actually drive past the neighborhood and the field is right before the swamp tours parking lot at the end of the road," explains Ashley B. about Pearl River WMA.
Permit requirements: Pearl River WMA requires permits that must be obtained before arrival. "This campground is a small open field by a road and river. There were some other rvs and tents even I arrived. I felt safe & it was quiet. No bathrooms or water available. You must have a (free) permit on Louisiana's app LDWF WMA & sign in & out," advises Emely.
Insect activity levels: Summer months bring increased mosquito and roach activity. "The roaches THE ROACHES WERE HORRIBLE. Especially at night as soon as you'd open up the door they were flying EVERYWHERE, we camped in August," warns Ashlyn B. about McLeod Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and water features: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Slidell offer kid-focused amenities. "We enjoyed our mid October stay. Great playground and splash pad for the children. We walked the nature trail and enjoyed the river views from our campsite," shares Tiffany M. about McLeod Park.
Reserve well in advance: Popular family-friendly spots book quickly. "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," notes Katherine D. about New Orleans RV Resort & Marina.
Short nature trails: Many campgrounds have trails manageable for younger children. "Had a great time. Reserved 3 primitive spots for new years weekend. 13 ppl total - 6 adults, 7 kids (ages 4-14). There was a great boat launch spot for the kids to put kayaks and canoes in the water (brought our own gear - no rental)," explains Paula W. about Fairview-Riverside State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Carefully research site dimensions before booking. "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!" Martha S. shares about Fontainebleau State Park Campground.
Drainage concerns after rain: Low-lying areas may experience flooding. "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," Dean and Dodie B. caution about Fairview-Riverside State Park.
Utilities and connections: Some parks have limitations on hookups. "Pontchartrain Landing is nice RV park. We had a great weekday stay in late December and the weather was nice. 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," details David B. about New Orleans RV Resort & Marina.
