Near Zachary, Louisiana, campers find abundant oaks and pine forests across gently rolling terrain with elevations rarely exceeding 200 feet. This area sits at the eastern edge of Louisiana's Tunica Hills region where the climate features hot, humid summers and mild winters with frequent rainfall. Many campgrounds maintain gravel or concrete pads to help with drainage during the region's 60+ inches of annual rainfall.
What to Do
Hiking at Clark Creek: Located near Tunica Hills Campground, the nearby trails offer varied terrain unusual for Louisiana. "Clark's Creek is nearby for superb hiking. Port-a-Potty was clean. Road in to site is narrow, but camp host very nice," notes Fabein D.
Kayaking opportunities: Several water bodies surround the Zachary area for paddling adventures. At Hidden Oaks Family Campground, "There's a river that runs right through the campground. We were able to ride bikes and kayak," according to a reviewer named Cat R.
Wildlife viewing: The swamps and forests provide excellent wildlife observation areas. "The campground is very secluded, so you get to experience the sounds of the woods at night," writes one Tunica Hills camper. Alligators, deer, and numerous bird species inhabit the surrounding wetlands.
What Campers Like
Natural landscape: The diverse terrain surprises many visitors. "Nice campsite..we had the area to ourselves..alot of hiking trails nearby for all different skill levels..the terrain is amazing couldn't believe I was actually in Louisiana," reports David D. about his stay at Tunica Hills.
Water features: Tickfaw State Park offers swamp and river environments that define the camping experience. "We got to experience the Dutch Oven Society, which was GREAT!! If you are ever at a camp ground and they are around, you should check out their demonstration and sample all the great food they cook!" explains one visitor.
Secluded sites: Unlike standard campsites, some glamping options near Zachary provide private settings. "Most campsites are secluded from others. I recommend this place to anyone," writes Christian J. about his experience at Tunica Hills Campground.
What You Should Know
Weather impacts: Flooding affects campgrounds in this region. "Call the state park to reserve this site," advises one camper about a primitive site at Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, while another notes "We were under the mistaken impression that they honored the Nat'l park pass and gave you 1/2 off the price."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes pose a significant challenge, particularly in warmer months. "Bring strong bug spray," writes Tyler H., adding "was unable to go far on walk due to the thick blanket of mosquitoes."
Noise factors: Highway noise affects some properties. At Punkin Park Campground, one visitor notes, "It is right next to the interstate and a get off ramp. Constant sounds of traffic."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Indian Creek Campground provides water-based recreation options. "There's a new playground for the kids that our son especially likes to bike over to," writes Josh B., highlighting family-friendly features.
Nature programming: Several parks offer guided activities. "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," explains a Tickfaw State Park visitor.
Special events: Holiday celebrations create memorable experiences at certain campgrounds. At Adventures RV Resort, "Everyone decorates their campsites, there's hayrides and haunted houses. They have plenty of scheduled activities to keep the kids busy all day," according to one Halloween visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully for your rig size. "Our site, #37 on the tent loop, we had enough space as well as privacy," says Paula W. about Tickfaw State Park, while another camper advises, "We were in site 16 which had electricity and water. Dump station available."
Amenities to expect: Many glamping accommodations near Zachary provide elevated comforts. "The KOA serves a home-cooked breakfast (for a small charge). When you don't have groceries, and you are tired - this was a wonderful treat!" explains Karen S. about the Baton Rouge KOA.
Power requirements: Check electric hookup specifications before booking. "We have stayed here for 4 consecutive years for the Louisiana Marathon weekend in January and couldn't ask for a better home base for one of our favorite race weekends. They offer regular pull thru spots with both 30 and 50 amp full hook ups," advises a KOA visitor.
