Camping near New Orleans?

[Benjamin Jacobs]

Starting a cross country drive next week and New Orleans is right about where I'd plan on stopping for a night. Anyone have any personal experience with campgrounds or sites within an hour or so drive in any direction? Not going to have much time to explore so surrounding trails don't matter as much; would love anything near water (though I realize it's probably a lot of marshland down there.. and thus pretty buggy this time of year). I see Bogue Chitto Refuge and De Soto National Forest nearby, but it's hard to find much information about them online.

[David Thomas]

If you're looking for bugs and swamp – if you WANT to camp there, go for it. If you are on a budget and looking for a cheap place to stay near/ in NOLA, consider a youth hostel (they accept all ages). In my 20's, I did this in many USA and European cities. I have friends who do it still. It's also a great way to meet hiking or driving (gas money!) companions. Couchsurfing.org is another cheap (free!) and social option but you have to sign up in advance and get approved.

[Ben C]

Its going to be hot, humid, and possibly buggy. I would just spend all night out on the town. That's the best way to enjoy the NO area anyway.

[Benjamin Jacobs]

Thanks, David. That's likely what I'm going to end up doing. I've been a couch surfing host for years now and, somewhat oddly, have never actually travelled as a guest on there. I actually don't mind the mugginess / bugginess so much (currently live in SC), but probably not best conditions for a mid-drive rest. Time to try to cash in some karma with the universe..

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