The 5 Best Places to Camp in Louisiana this Summer

For some of the best camping this summer in Louisiana you have to check out campgrounds in the Kisatchie National Forest, or the Atchafalaya River Basin. You could also stay right in Baton Rouge or maybe you prefer to stay in New Orleans with a marina to access the Gulf. There are lots of amazing options to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are the 5 best places to camp in Louisiana this summer.

1. Kisatchie National Forest: Dogwood Campground

The Kisatchie district is known as the “Little Grand Canyon” where you can hike to see sandstone bluffs, visit the sandy shores of the Kisatchie Bayou and venture out on ATV’s along the Sandstone Multi-use Trail. There are multiple campgrounds in the Kisatchie district including the popular Dogwood Campground which serves as a great home base for visiting everything in the area. It has RV, trailer and tent camping available with restrooms and drinking water. Each site has its own fire pit for some late night s’mores. If you love horseback riding there are miles of trails for riding and two campgrounds that can accommodate your horse, Cane Camp and Oak Camp.

2. Farr Park RV Campground and Equestrian Center

For the best camping right in Baton Rouge, stay at the Farr Park RV Campground and Equestrian Center. It is located right on the Mississippi River with 108 full hookup sites with 50 amp electrical and water. The peaceful campground is surrounded by pastures, bike trails, and the horse riding facility. You can bring your own horse and have them stay at the “horse hotel” or go for a guided trail ride. You could also try a English or Western riding lesson right onsite. The campground is only three miles from a grocery store and laundry facility and only two miles to LSU. You can also head into downtown Baton Rouge for a night out, only 10 miles away.

3. Atchafalaya River Basin Camping

For a more rustic, primitive camping experience, you can explore the Atchafalaya River Basin.  The Atchafalaya is the largest swamp/wetland area in the U.S. covering more than a million acres. Admire the large Cypress trees, be sure to see some alligators and watch for some of the most amazing birds like herons and egrets. Load up your canoe with your camping gear and the list of GPS locations of suitable campsites. Most are very primitive with some the only “amenity” is a welcome sign. But having the option to float for days in much of untouched, natural beauty is worth the trip.

4. Jimmie Davis State Park

If you want a relaxing lakeside vacation, then camping at Jimmie Davis State Park is the place to go. Right on the Caney Creek Reservoir, the sandy beach is a great place to set up some beach chairs, go for a swim or take a boat out for some great fishing. Some of the best largemouth bass, crappie and catfish fishing can be found along the shores of the peninsulas. At the campground there are many camping options including 68 paved campsites, 17 deluxe cabins, 2 lodges, 4 group camp dorms with a conference center. There is a playground and splash pad for the kids. Restrooms, showers and laundry are available for all guests and there is a large pavilion with grills for larger groups. One of the best places to camp in Louisiana this summer!

5. New Orleans RV Resort and Marina

Located on the northern end of New Orleans the New Orleans RV Resort and Marina is gated RV park on Lake Pontchartrain. Enjoy the central location that is only 12 minutes away from the French Quarter. With a marina right there you can bring your own boat or rent one to spend time on the water. Look for manatee or otters that enjoy this estuarian area. The resort has both RV sites (waterfront!) and waterfront villas to rent (3 are floating villas!). It really is more than just a campground with a swimming pool, hot tub, restaurant & bar and convenience store on site. Bring your pets because there is a fun dog park as well.

Summary of The 5 Best Places to Camp in Louisiana this Summer