Best Camping in Louisiana

By Alex Murphy

Whether it's the allure of New Orleans, the swampy marshland that covers most of the state and runs into the Gulf of Mexico, or the celebrated food, the uniqueness of Louisiana keeps visitors coming back for more.

The state is doused in history, and visitors can still see much of it from many of the campgrounds in Louisiana.

Here's a look at some well-known and off-the-beaten-path stops to make on your next trip to the Bayou State.

See a map of all camping in Louisiana.

Louisiana State Parks

There are only 21 Louisiana State Parks, but each has its own sights to see and some unique fun.

For example, Bayou Segnette State Park has a massive wave pool that can hold up to 400 guests, and Palmetto Island State Park has a water playground. Bayou Segnette State Park makes it easy for boaters to access fishing, while Palmetto Island State Park overlooks the Vermilion River.

Visitors can also find Louisiana's best camping at Grand Isle State Park, steps away from the beach in Grand Isle, LA.

Louisiana National Parks

The history of Louisiana plays a major role in what shapes the state today.

In cities like New Orleans, you can find stops like the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, highlighting the start of some of America's greatest music. Nearby at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, you can learn about the city's past and the background of the Cajun people.

Further north in Louisiana is the Cane River Creole National Historical Park that highlights the story of the Creole people and the importance of the Cane River.

Poverty Point National Monument preserves pre-historic works by ancient people. This monument is located in the Northeast corner of the state and just a short drive from Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi, which observes parts of the Civil War.

RV Parks in Louisiana

RV Parks in Louisiana are fairly plentiful with a number right near popular destinations in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

It comes with a hefty price tag, but French Quarter RV Resort puts you blocks from its namesake in the historic neighborhood in New Orleans. Another similar option is Pontchartrain Landing.

If you're looking to explore the state's capital of Baton Rouge and catch an LSU football game, you might consider staying at Baton Rouge KOA or Cajun Country RV Park.

For camping in Louisiana, away from the hustle and bustle, RV parks like Lakeside RV Park offer a much quieter atmosphere.

Free Camping in Louisiana

In addition to the National Forest's dispersed campgrounds, there are a few other options for free camping in Louisiana.

This includes multiple wildlife protection and Army Corps of Engineer sites such as the Bonnet Carre Spillway Campground, just west of New Orleans.

A very different option for those looking to gamble includes casino parking lots like Horseshoe Bossier City Hotel & Casino.

National Forests in Louisiana

There is only one National Forest in Louisiana, Kisatchie National Forest, which includes some great destinations like Caney Lakes Recreation Area.

As the name details, Caney Lakes has multiple spots for swimming, fishing, and boating and has a popular campsite for tent camping and RV sites at Beaver Dam Campground.

Kisatchie is in central Louisiana, and unlike the bayous and low marshlands, it's densely packed with pines. Anyone looking to see this side of the state can stay in another campground in the forest called Oak Camp Complex.