Lake Pontchartrain access and extensive trail networks make Fontainebleau State Park Campground a base for water sports and cycling enthusiasts. The 126-site campground sits within a 2,800-acre state park that includes hiking trails, biking paths, and a small beach area on the lake's north shore.
Large live oaks draped in Spanish moss create natural canopies throughout the campground, though site selection requires careful planning for larger RVs. MickandKarla W. notes that big rigs should "read reviews and possibly call the park concerning specific sites" due to drainage ditches and narrow access roads near certain spots. The campground divides into improved sites with water and electric hookups, and primitive areas that can flood during heavy rains. Site 138 offers more space but presents backing challenges for trailers over 35 feet.
Wildlife encounters happen regularly here. Deer frequently visit campsites in groups of 15-20, and Abraham H. reports that "you may also see opossums and plenty of birds." Bullfrog calls provide nighttime soundscapes from nearby wetlands. The Saint Tammany Trace bike trail connects the park to Mandeville, allowing cyclists to ride into town for meals or supplies.
Most sites include water and electric hookups, but sewer connections are limited. Two dump stations serve the campground, though lines can form during busy periods. Cell service runs strong with both Verizon and T-Mobile providing coverage, plus free WiFi throughout the park. The campground operates year-round, though spring and fall see the driest conditions for tent camping.
Campers wanting a different Lake Pontchartrain experience can check Fountainbleau, located less than a mile south.
Description
Whether you’re looking for a convenient base for exploring New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, or a waterfront retreat for relaxing in nature, Fontainebleau State Park offers both. Located along the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, and named for the Fontainebleau Forest near Paris, France, the area was founded in the early 1800s as a sugar plantation. In fact, the remains of the plantation’s old sugar mill form part of the 2,800-acre state park’s visitor center and museum. The park’s diverse ecosystem—including bayous and mossy woods—serves as an expansive wildlife preserve, hosting more than 400 species of birds and animals—including alligators! The park also boasts one of the largest white sand beaches in the state, a perfect place for sunning, swimming and paddling.
Fontainebleau State Park offers 116 improved campsites for RV campers, and more than 250 unimproved sites for tent campers. RV sites are equipped with water and electricity hookups, and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 70 feet; a few pull-through sites can accommodate rigs up to 120 feet. Tent sites are mostly primitive, with 33 designated sites and a large community area. There are also two group camps. All sites have access to water faucets, flush restrooms, and showers; a dump station is located in the upper camping area. For those traveling without their own accommodations, the park also offers cabins and group lodges. Reservations are recommended for RV sites; most tent sites are first-come-first-served. Dogs are permitted, but must remain leashed. Campsite rates range from $18–$33/night; cabins and lodges are $150–$210/night.
Guests who are interested in relaxing and recreating in the park have access to a variety of onsite amenities, including picnic areas, a water playground, fishing piers, beaches and swimming areas, kayak and SUP rentals, and Wifi service. The park’s two nature trails, including a portion of the Tammany Trace Trail (an old railroad line converted into a multi-use path), are excellent for wildlife watching. Anglers can fish for various freshwater species of bass, bluegill, sunfish and catfish in the park’s ponds and creeks. Outside of the park, visitors can go antiquing in the local villages, enjoy fresh seafood from several nearby eateries, or head for the local brewery for a refreshing pint. New Orleans, and all its history, culture and flavor are just a short drive across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway.
Map & DirectionsFontainebleau State Park Campground is located in Louisiana near Mandeville
Address
62883 Hwy. 1089
Mandeville, LA 70448
Coordinates
30.34500069 N
90.02300018 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 users
Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/23/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 user
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 users
- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/23/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 user
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 18 min from Slidell, LA
- 29 min from Hammond, LA
- 40 min from New Orleans, LA
- 53 min from Gulfport, MS
