Tickfaw State Park sits within Louisiana's lowland swamp environment at 6 feet above sea level, providing a distinctive wetland camping experience near Springfield. The park features several miles of boardwalk trails through cypress-tupelo swamps with occasional alligator sightings. Most camping areas can flood when the Tickfaw River rises, requiring campers to check water levels before arrival.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Bogue Chitto State Park Campground offers multiple ecosystems to explore with abundant wildlife sightings. "We saw plenty of wildlife such as turkey, deer, rabbits, turtles, alligators and birds. Plenty of trails for hiking and biking. The river offers a nice swimming hole during the summer," notes a visitor who frequented the park.
Kayaking: Indian Creek Campground provides direct water access from many campsites. A camper at site 39 reports, "We are at site 39 which has 2 access areas for kayaks, canoes, etc. The ground is pretty sloped though. Very nice kayaking." This campground offers both primitive and RV sections with a creek running through the property.
Fishing: Tickfaw State Park Campground includes a small fishing lake with boardwalk pier. "There's a small pond to kayak, where we were greeted by a watch out for gator sign!" shares one camper who explored the area. The park maintains several water features for fishing throughout the property.
What campers like
Free laundry facilities: Several Tickfaw State Park visitors mention this unexpected amenity. "FREE laundry, elevation 6 ft., dump station, electric, water, showers, flush toilets, Verizon cell service," notes one camper who appreciated these conveniences during their March visit.
Privacy between sites: Hidden Oaks Family Campground offers a mix of primitive and RV camping with natural separation. "We setup our tent area in the primitive area near the river/beach area. It has many trails to walk through, open areas for activities, bath houses, and more," according to a reviewer who appreciated the layout.
Water activities: Multiple campgrounds near Springfield feature water-based recreation options. Indian Creek Campground has "a nice private beach for campers. Also a public boat launch and beach," though one camper noted "The water looks kinda nasty, so this girl won't get in it!"
What you should know
Seasonal flooding risks: Camping areas at Tickfaw can flood during high river periods. "I have had a few of my reservations cancelled by the park when the river is high because the camping areas will flood," reports a regular visitor who recommends checking conditions before arrival.
Wildlife encounters: The swampy environment means wildlife is always present. "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," mentions one Tickfaw visitor who experienced typical swampland wildlife.
Holiday popularity: Bogue Chitto State Park Campground and other area campgrounds fill quickly during seasonal events. "Plan ahead, they do 3 weekends of Halloween in a row and they book crazy fast (we booked a full year in advance)," advises a camper regarding holiday-themed camping events.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: For glamping close to Springfield, Louisiana, families appreciate the various water features. "During the summer months, there is a splash pad that kids really enjoy. This is also a great park to rent canoes (or bring your own) for a day out on the waterways," explains a regular Tickfaw visitor.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. "The park offers a nature center that is really nice and they have animal demonstrations where you are able to really learn about Louisiana wildlife and touch the animals as well," shares a camper who visits with children.
Holiday events: Adventures RV Resort (formerly Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park) offers special seasonal activities. "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," reports a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Tickfaw State Park, certain RV sites offer more seclusion. "Our site was lined with woods and gave us the feeling of seclusion. Good water pressure. Free laundry for campers," notes an RV camper who appreciated the utilities and privacy.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment. At Indian Creek, a camper mentioned, "Our site # 57 needed 2 blocks to level," while others noted similar requirements at most area campgrounds due to the uneven terrain common in this region.
Senior discounts: Louisiana State Parks offer significant savings for older visitors. "When we booked the reservation we used the 20% military discount but found out upon arrival that LA State Parks give a 50% discount for seniors 62+ and you don't have to be a state resident," shares a visitor who saved substantially on their glamping experience near Springfield.
