The best forest campgrounds near Franklinton, Louisiana

Franklinton sits surrounded by pine and hardwood forests—prime territory for camping if you want shade, quiet, and a break from concrete. With over 680 forest campsites, you’ll find spots for every style, from secluded clearings to creekside hideouts. Prices start cheap, with options as low as $15 a night and an average around $30. People flock to Camp Topisaw (392 reviews), Big Branch Apiary (207 reviews), and All You Need Institute (193 reviews) for their thick woods, easy-going hosts, and direct access to trails. Most sites allow campfires; expect basics like showers and toilets. Hikers, swimmers, and wildlife-watchers will keep busy—think lazy river dips and owl calls at dusk. Pack bug spray, bring layers, and don’t count on cell service. Here, you trade wifi for woodsmoke and real quiet.

99% (876) • 28 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Franklinton

Big Branch Apiary

1. Big Branch Apiary

99%

(268)

37mi from Franklinton · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Big Branch Apiary, a 50 acre honey and blueberry farm north of Lake Pontchartrain. We're bounded by the Big Branch Wildlife Reserve to the south and a Rails to Trails bike path on the north. We are 3 miles from Lacombe to the east, 4 miles from Mandeville to the west, about 3 miles from Fountainbleu State Park, and an hour from New Orleans. Most of the farm is a mix of hardwood forest and wetlands. Desert Bayou and East Branch Bayou meander across the property. The farm has deer, foxes, bobcats, owls, fireflies, otters, raccoons, turtles, and, well, about anything common to the wilds of the Gulf South. This includes a litany of snakes, mosquitoes, and deer flies in season. About 8 acres are used to raise poultry, bees and organically farmed blueberries. Overall, the land feels primordial and pristine. We are a designated Monarch Waystation and in the spring and fall see many migrating butterflies. We cultivate a lot of flowers so almost year round you can see butterflies in profusion. We are part of the USDAs Conservation Stewardship Program, concentrating on protecting and increasing habitat for animals and pollinators. Pets are welcome but please leash them. Campfires are allowed except on rare occasions. You can hunt for deadfalls in the woods on the farm, or we can provide firewood for a small fee. Our honey, fresh eggs, and homemade sourdough can be purchased as well. This is a rustic situation: think dry camping, outdoor (heated) shower, and outhouses. We have a tiny treehouse, an A-frame, a glamping tent, and several places to pitch a tent. The farm is pretty secure--someone is on-site most of the time, it's gated, and there are security cameras at access points. But it is a farm in a rural community--you may hear roosters crow, sheep bleat, dogs bark, and the sounds of owls, hawks, coyotes, and other native wildlife. If this sounds like it suits you then come stay and enjoy the farm life.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$27

/ night

All You Need Institute

2. All You Need Institute

98%

(404)

44mi from Franklinton · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging

All You Need is a 111 acre paradise that is home to some VERY unique and endangered habitat. Our northern boundary is a tract of DeSoto National Forest, where we have practically exclusive access to another 90 acres of longleaf pine savannah and more bottomland creeks. The sandhills are a "desert in the rain," home to prickly pear cactus and yuccas, abundant lichens (deer "moss"), the endangered black pine snake, and our mascot, the also endangered Gopher Tortoise. We're a nature education and retreat center where we share permaculture practices, homesteading/sustainable living skills, conservation practices, and approaches to connecting more deeply to the land. Check out our sister non-profit, the Burrow Nature Center. You will have access to our many walking paths and our swimming pond, as well as a 15 minute walk to part of DeSoto National Forest, which butts up to our property line. We would love to have you as our guest on the land, and are especially eager to meet travelers who deeply love nature and want to live in better relationship to it! Check in is between 2pm - 8pm, Check out is 11am. There's a fee for late check-in to our site.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$24

/ night

Camp Topisaw

3. Camp Topisaw

100%

(772)

28mi from Franklinton · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

95 acres on the beautiful Topisaw Creek. Here we've raised 5 kids and a multitude of dogs, cats and chickens and a small herd of pineywoods cattle. The woods are quiet and undisturbed , harboring native species like jack in the pulpit, trillium and Florida anise. The spring-fed (and thus always refreshing!) Topisaw Creek forms the eastern border of our property, so plan to spend time on the sandy beaches and rock bars soaking up the sun or hunting for rocks and fossils (petrified wood and arrowheads have been found here). Many folks also enjoy a leisurely float down the creek in inner tubes ('tubing') or in a kayak. (Please note that after heavy rains the creek rises to epic heights and is too dangerous to navigate.) Little to no light pollution makes for amazing stargazing!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$25

/ night

Bogue Chitto State Park

4. Bogue Chitto State Park

80%

(5)

90 sites · Franklinton, Louisiana

Paddling the Bogue Chitto River is a Louisianian rite of passage.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Fairview Riverside State Park

5. Fairview Riverside State Park

101 sites · Madisonville, Louisiana

Discover the natural charm of Fairview Riverside State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Opal Springs Nature Haven

6. Opal Springs Nature Haven

98%

(24)

16mi from Franklinton · 5 sites · Tents

The property is an old homestead recently reclaimed and being brought back to life after many years abandoned. Early 1800s Bulgarian immigrants started a little community here called Stein. The old railroad used to pass through and there are alot of artifacts scattered throughout the property. We are in the process of cleaning up the old cabin built in late 1800s suprisingly still standing. The hardwood forest has a creek running through that is virtually untouched and home to wildlife of all kinds. Birds and wildlife of all kinds have a home here and no hunting allowed. Some trails have been cut and there are some natural trails for exploring the property through the hardwoods and campers are welcome to make new ones. A spring fed pond is great for fishing or just relaxing under the majestic live oaks. If Mushroom foraging is your thing you are in luck after a nice rain. This place had the best of southeast Louisiana and truly is a hidden gem. We are still in the clearing process so there are alot of projects going on but we definitely have some cool spots to pitch a tent. Host is on property in shipping container and willing to make accommodations as needed as we have electricity but are pretty much off the grid.. do not have an outdoor bathroom but could set something up with little effort. Have running water for solar shower or creek bath if you'd rather. Since we are still rebuilding there are some piles of lumber and things that may be unsafe for small children and animals. I have 2 dogs on the property with me but are fenced and friendly. If you have any questions just ask!

Campfires

Toilets

Potable water

from

$30

/ night

Missihippie Camping and Berries

7. Missihippie Camping and Berries

100%

(3)

23mi from Franklinton · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nice, quiet peaceful place filled with pine trees. 5- 20 minutes from river. 2 air conditioned bathrooms. 1 cabin available for rent. Full of blackberries and blueberries. Lynard Skyndard monument 15 minutes away. Surrounded by nature at its best. Pet friendly place. Wake up to the sounds of birds every where's. Come make memories with us!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$25

/ night

Porter-Muse Farms

8. Porter-Muse Farms

100%

(3)

31mi from Franklinton · 47 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: 19 acre property with grassing areas, lake fields and wooded forest. Lots of deer and other wildlife. 100 year old pine trees and hard wood forest ... limited space due to hurricane Ida damage.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$9

/ night

Percy Quin State Park

9. Percy Quin State Park

100%

(3)

189 sites · Magnolia, Mississippi

Discover Percy Quin State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Fontainebleau State Park

10. Fontainebleau State Park

100%

(4)

162 sites · Mandeville, Louisiana

This 2,800-acre park has nature trails and sandy beaches fit for a French King.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Tickfaw State Park

11. Tickfaw State Park

88%

(4)

65 sites · Killian, Louisiana

Discover Tickfaw State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Franklinton sits surrounded by pine and hardwood forests—prime territory for camping if you want shade, quiet, and a break from concrete. With over 680 forest campsites, you’ll find spots for every style, from secluded clearings to creekside hideouts. Prices start cheap, with options as low as $15 a night and an average around $30. People flock to Camp Topisaw (392 reviews), Big Branch Apiary (207 reviews), and All You Need Institute (193 reviews) for their thick woods, easy-going hosts, and direct access to trails. Most sites allow campfires; expect basics like showers and toilets. Hikers, swimmers, and wildlife-watchers will keep busy—think lazy river dips and owl calls at dusk. Pack bug spray, bring layers, and don’t count on cell service. Here, you trade wifi for woodsmoke and real quiet.

99% (876) • 28 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Franklinton

Big Branch Apiary

1. Big Branch Apiary

99%

(268)

37mi from Franklinton · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Big Branch Apiary, a 50 acre honey and blueberry farm north of Lake Pontchartrain. We're bounded by the Big Branch Wildlife Reserve to the south and a Rails to Trails bike path on the north. We are 3 miles from Lacombe to the east, 4 miles from Mandeville to the west, about 3 miles from Fountainbleu State Park, and an hour from New Orleans. Most of the farm is a mix of hardwood forest and wetlands. Desert Bayou and East Branch Bayou meander across the property. The farm has deer, foxes, bobcats, owls, fireflies, otters, raccoons, turtles, and, well, about anything common to the wilds of the Gulf South. This includes a litany of snakes, mosquitoes, and deer flies in season. About 8 acres are used to raise poultry, bees and organically farmed blueberries. Overall, the land feels primordial and pristine. We are a designated Monarch Waystation and in the spring and fall see many migrating butterflies. We cultivate a lot of flowers so almost year round you can see butterflies in profusion. We are part of the USDAs Conservation Stewardship Program, concentrating on protecting and increasing habitat for animals and pollinators. Pets are welcome but please leash them. Campfires are allowed except on rare occasions. You can hunt for deadfalls in the woods on the farm, or we can provide firewood for a small fee. Our honey, fresh eggs, and homemade sourdough can be purchased as well. This is a rustic situation: think dry camping, outdoor (heated) shower, and outhouses. We have a tiny treehouse, an A-frame, a glamping tent, and several places to pitch a tent. The farm is pretty secure--someone is on-site most of the time, it's gated, and there are security cameras at access points. But it is a farm in a rural community--you may hear roosters crow, sheep bleat, dogs bark, and the sounds of owls, hawks, coyotes, and other native wildlife. If this sounds like it suits you then come stay and enjoy the farm life.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$27

/ night

All You Need Institute

2. All You Need Institute

98%

(404)

44mi from Franklinton · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging

All You Need is a 111 acre paradise that is home to some VERY unique and endangered habitat. Our northern boundary is a tract of DeSoto National Forest, where we have practically exclusive access to another 90 acres of longleaf pine savannah and more bottomland creeks. The sandhills are a "desert in the rain," home to prickly pear cactus and yuccas, abundant lichens (deer "moss"), the endangered black pine snake, and our mascot, the also endangered Gopher Tortoise. We're a nature education and retreat center where we share permaculture practices, homesteading/sustainable living skills, conservation practices, and approaches to connecting more deeply to the land. Check out our sister non-profit, the Burrow Nature Center. You will have access to our many walking paths and our swimming pond, as well as a 15 minute walk to part of DeSoto National Forest, which butts up to our property line. We would love to have you as our guest on the land, and are especially eager to meet travelers who deeply love nature and want to live in better relationship to it! Check in is between 2pm - 8pm, Check out is 11am. There's a fee for late check-in to our site.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$24

/ night

Camp Topisaw

3. Camp Topisaw

100%

(772)

28mi from Franklinton · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

95 acres on the beautiful Topisaw Creek. Here we've raised 5 kids and a multitude of dogs, cats and chickens and a small herd of pineywoods cattle. The woods are quiet and undisturbed , harboring native species like jack in the pulpit, trillium and Florida anise. The spring-fed (and thus always refreshing!) Topisaw Creek forms the eastern border of our property, so plan to spend time on the sandy beaches and rock bars soaking up the sun or hunting for rocks and fossils (petrified wood and arrowheads have been found here). Many folks also enjoy a leisurely float down the creek in inner tubes ('tubing') or in a kayak. (Please note that after heavy rains the creek rises to epic heights and is too dangerous to navigate.) Little to no light pollution makes for amazing stargazing!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$25

/ night

Bogue Chitto State Park

4. Bogue Chitto State Park

80%

(5)

90 sites · Franklinton, Louisiana

Paddling the Bogue Chitto River is a Louisianian rite of passage.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Fairview Riverside State Park

5. Fairview Riverside State Park

101 sites · Madisonville, Louisiana

Discover the natural charm of Fairview Riverside State Park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Opal Springs Nature Haven

6. Opal Springs Nature Haven

98%

(24)

16mi from Franklinton · 5 sites · Tents

The property is an old homestead recently reclaimed and being brought back to life after many years abandoned. Early 1800s Bulgarian immigrants started a little community here called Stein. The old railroad used to pass through and there are alot of artifacts scattered throughout the property. We are in the process of cleaning up the old cabin built in late 1800s suprisingly still standing. The hardwood forest has a creek running through that is virtually untouched and home to wildlife of all kinds. Birds and wildlife of all kinds have a home here and no hunting allowed. Some trails have been cut and there are some natural trails for exploring the property through the hardwoods and campers are welcome to make new ones. A spring fed pond is great for fishing or just relaxing under the majestic live oaks. If Mushroom foraging is your thing you are in luck after a nice rain. This place had the best of southeast Louisiana and truly is a hidden gem. We are still in the clearing process so there are alot of projects going on but we definitely have some cool spots to pitch a tent. Host is on property in shipping container and willing to make accommodations as needed as we have electricity but are pretty much off the grid.. do not have an outdoor bathroom but could set something up with little effort. Have running water for solar shower or creek bath if you'd rather. Since we are still rebuilding there are some piles of lumber and things that may be unsafe for small children and animals. I have 2 dogs on the property with me but are fenced and friendly. If you have any questions just ask!

Campfires

Toilets

Potable water

from

$30

/ night

Missihippie Camping and Berries

7. Missihippie Camping and Berries

100%

(3)

23mi from Franklinton · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nice, quiet peaceful place filled with pine trees. 5- 20 minutes from river. 2 air conditioned bathrooms. 1 cabin available for rent. Full of blackberries and blueberries. Lynard Skyndard monument 15 minutes away. Surrounded by nature at its best. Pet friendly place. Wake up to the sounds of birds every where's. Come make memories with us!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$25

/ night

Porter-Muse Farms

8. Porter-Muse Farms

100%

(3)

31mi from Franklinton · 47 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: 19 acre property with grassing areas, lake fields and wooded forest. Lots of deer and other wildlife. 100 year old pine trees and hard wood forest ... limited space due to hurricane Ida damage.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

from

$9

/ night

Percy Quin State Park

9. Percy Quin State Park

100%

(3)

189 sites · Magnolia, Mississippi

Discover Percy Quin State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor adventures.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Fontainebleau State Park

10. Fontainebleau State Park

100%

(4)

162 sites · Mandeville, Louisiana

This 2,800-acre park has nature trails and sandy beaches fit for a French King.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Tickfaw State Park

11. Tickfaw State Park

88%

(4)

65 sites · Killian, Louisiana

Discover Tickfaw State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

G

Gary

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Missihippie Camping and Berries

Great place to go unplug and relax. If you're tent camping, power and water availability depends on your location on the site. The owners are still developing the camping areas so this may change over time. There is a road near by but traffic is pretty light during the weekend. The bathroom was super clean (no spiders). A real plus for the wife. lol Like I said, the owners are still building this up. They have one little cabin completed (super nice inside), are working to finish the second, and have the foundation set for a third. I'm looking forward to visiting again to see the development over time

B

Brandi

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to All You Need Institute

Enjoyed the stay! Night sky was beautiful. There were other sites nearby, but this still felt secluded.

J

Juliana

3 weeks ago

1 night at Big Branch Apiary

The bayou tent and the farm are so peaceful, beautiful, and comfortable! Cheri was very friendly and kind. Would highly recommend staying here!

Bryan

3 weeks ago

1 night at All You Need Institute

The property was beautiful!!! The yurt was extremely spacious and bigger than I had previously thought from the picture. So much care and thought was put into every single thing on the property. It was very enjoyable to explore and walk the trails during the sunrise. Highly recommend.

J

James

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Big Branch Apiary

Excellent experience camping at the farm. Cheri graciously greeted me at arrival to direct me to my spot. Drove past ducks, sheep, and thru a blueberry field to get to a secluded flat spot with three large oaks and a fire pit ready to burn. Toilets, showers, and a picnic table all available for use. Enjoyed a quiet night looking at the stars before natures alarm clock in the morning (roosters!). Very good experience!

J

Jenna

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Big Branch Apiary

What an amazing stay! Cheri is so kind and communicative. The property is beautiful and well taken care of. This was our second time there and we will certainly be back!

Entrance to Duck Pond Overlook from the pasture.

C

Callie

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Camp Topisaw

We had a great time and made some great memories - pretty sure we had the place to ourselves. It was so quiet and peaceful!

D

David

November 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Camp Topisaw

Fiancee and I went to get away for the Holidays to avoid the Family hassles with the pup for four days. David was communicative and friendly prior to our trip, asking if we needed some extra firewood (25$ cash) and made sure we got set up okay once we got there. He checked in over text daily. The area was very nice, we went searching for trash to pick up prior to getting set up and found very little. The grill and wood were a huge help as I had a bit of trouble getting the campfire set up in the cold and rain. The ad says David has 4 dogs that might say hello, I will say they definitely said hello and stayed for quite awhile. One of them for a night and two days without leaving camp, so if your tied up or leashed dog is not ready to be around other dogs, highly recommend you look for another place, thankfully mine was okay with the two that visited frequently. Little close to the road for my liking as you can hear trucks with loud bass coming up and down through the night, but the serenity of the water from the creek flowing through made up for that. Stores are a short drive to get any last minute supplies, which is great since we had to grab some extra ice last minute.

c

caitlin

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Topisaw

We loved camping at Camp Topisaw for our 2nd time! Fabulous spot, the creek is peaceful and gorgeous. Great spot to unwind and especially great for us that it is kid + dog friendly. Thank you as always to David!

A

Anne

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Topisaw

I loved tent camping here! All of the beautiful sounds from rushing water to animals in nature made for a nice relaxing time! The directions were easy but the camping spot was still very secluded! Awesome spot to stargaze!

A

Abbie

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to All You Need Institute

Great spot! The site had a nice flattened area for my tent a little into a wooded area. I was able to hang my hammock. And the spot is right in the edge of the walking trails which was lovely. I also had some car troubles and Jordan was very responsive and helpful!

G

Gary

November 2025

With pets

3 nights at All You Need Institute

Fantastic property with some unique ecological features, plenty of room to feel private or connected to other campers, and great accommodations. Highly recommend this for your next weekend getaway.

Shawn

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Topisaw

Topisaw is always great. Stayed multiple times, host is always very accommodating and communicates very well.

B

Blaine

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Camp Topisaw

We tent camped on the creek side sandbar. It was a group of 5 of us and a dog. David welcomed us at the site, he was friendly and answered all questions we had. The site had a bbq grill, a patio table and 4 chairs, and an outhouse that was close by. There was enough parking for our 3 vehicles so no problems there. The site wasn’t close by to other campers and felt very private which was nice. The creek was a little chilly but we were in it the majority of the days anyway, and the dog loved it. If you’re in to rock hunting this spot is for you! Bunch of neat things to find in and near the creek. I would also recommend some kind of water shoe for the rocky spots (if you have city feet like me) Overall, we had nothing negative to say about this place. Everything was great and we will be returning in the future!

J

Jolie

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Camp Topisaw

Such a private and quiet spot to camp at. Would definitely go again if i lived closer.

N

Nicholas

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Topisaw

We had an absolutely amazing long weekend here. The sandy banks are gorgeous and the river is awesome. David was super friendly and helped us find our spot. One of the most relaxing get aways we have had in a while.

D

David

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Opal Springs Nature Haven

Good little piece of property with many options for Tent, Vehicle or rooftop camping. Host is cool, offered to cut some limbs if necessary but wasn’t needed… quiet and peaceful. Good stargazing spot!. Camping creekside next time.

G

George

October 2025

1 night at Big Branch Apiary

Cheri was a welcoming host with a beautiful property. Can't ask for much more.

R

Reid

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Camp Topisaw

Great location and as described! This was my second time camping here and will be back again. The host are great and would highly recommend the firewood!