Local Area Attractions Near Slidell KOA Journey

Located just a short drive from New Orleans, Slidell, Louisiana, is a hidden gem with plenty of things to do for visitors of all interests. From exploring scenic bayous and wildlife preserves to discovering local history and enjoying fresh seafood, Slidell offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Its convenient location near the Big Easy makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the festivals and events of New Orleans and the relaxed atmosphere of Louisiana’s Northshore beaches and Lake Pontchartrain.

Check out all of the exciting options of things to do near Slidell!

The French Quarter of New Orleans

The French Quarter of New Orleans

Just 30 minutes from the campground, the historic French Quarter is famous for colorful buildings with cast-iron balconies, live music, and gourmet food. In the heart of the French Quarter, is the infamous Bourbon Street, where you'll find jazz clubs, live music, and other street performers. Bourbon Street also offers Cajun eateries and vibrant nightlife.

Honey Island Cypress Swamp Tour

Honey Island Cypress Swamp Tour

Drift past moss-draped cypress trees into one of America's wildest, most untouched swamps. Tales of pirates and Bigfoot may give you pause, but one boat ride through Honey Island Swamp's haunting beauty - its towering trees and fragrant wild azaleas - will have you hooked. This 250-square-mile swamp is one of the last truly wild river wetlands in the U.S., with nearly 70,000 acres protected as Louisiana's first Nature Conservancy preserve. Explore this pristine sanctuary on a personalized, narrated nature tour that draws visitors from around the world.

Call for a reservation.

41490 Crawford Landing Rd

Slidell, LA 70461

985-641-1769

Website

St. Charles Streetcar Line

St. Charles Streetcar Line

Running since 1835, the St. Charles Streetcar Line is the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world. There are four main streetcar lines. Catch the historic St. Charles line at the edge of the French Quarter at the cross streets of St. Charles Ave and Common St to enjoy a 40 minute ride through Uptown and the Garden District. On this route, there are many excellent stops, including museums, parks, impressive mansions, and several hotels and restaurants.

St Charles Ave

New Orleans, LA 70130

Website

INFINITY Science Center

INFINITY Science Center

INFINITY Science Center invites guests to explore the wonders of Earth, oceans, and space through a variety of engaging experiences. From interactive museum exhibits and immersive videos to live presentations and hands-on STEM programs, visitors can deepen their understanding of science and even witness historic events firsthand.  

Offering a captivating self-guided experience, INFINITY Science Center is designed to inspire and amaze. Plan to spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring the exhibits, and extend your visit by watching a movie, browsing the Odyssey Gift Shop, or enjoying a meal at the café.

1 Discovery Cir

Pearlington, MS 39572

228-533-9025

Website

St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral

The Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, also called St. Louis Cathedral, is a Catholic cathedral and basilica in on Jackson Square in New Orleans. Visit, go on a tour, or join mass at the the oldest Catholic cathedral in continual use in the United States.

615 Pere Antoine Alley

New Orleans, LA 70116

Website

Local Area Recreation Near Slidell KOA Journey

Northshore Beach Park

Northshore Beach Park

The Northshore Beach is conveniently located in Slidell along Lake Pontchartrain. This dog-friendly beach is free and open to the public from 7 am - 11 pm daily. The lake offers swimming, wind sailing, and fishing, and the beach area provides pavilions, parking, and picnic tables, making it a favorite spot to spend the day!

267 Debbie Dr

Slidell, LA 70458

Website

Fairview-Riverside State Park

Fairview-Riverside State Park

Fairview-Riverside State Park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The cool, crystal-clear waters of the Tchefuncte River are perfect for fishing, boating, paddling, and crabbing. 

This expansive park provides nature trails, picnic tables, a pavilion, and a playground. The park is also home to the historic Otis House Museum, offering tours regularly.Check the state park website for up-to-date hours, fees, and information.

119 Fairview Drive

985-845-3318

Madisonville, LA 70447

985-845-3318

Website

Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is a natural treasure of over 18,000 acres on the northshore of Lake Pontchartrain.

The refuge's freshwater, piney woods, bayous, and marshes are a haven for wildlife and a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, hiking, paddling, bird watching, nature photography, guided tours, and educational programs are available. The Bayou Lacombe Visitor Center in Lacombe is a gateway to exploring the Southeast Louisiana Refuges, with exhibits, maps, and a nature store. 

The Visitor Center is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

C/O Southeast Louisiana Refuges 61389 Highway 434

(985) 882-2000

Lacombe, LA 70445

985-882-2000

Website

Fontainebleau State Park

Fontainebleau State Park

The 2,800-acre park is located on the shore of Lake Pontchartrain, offering biking, boating, paddling, and fishing. Highlights include the sandy beach, historic railroad track, and marked nature trails.
Bordered on three sides by water – Lake Pontchartrain, Bayou Cane and Bayou Castine – and characterized by a convergence of diverse ecosystems, it has a multitude of habitats for birds.

Check the state park website for up-to-date entrance hours and fees.

62883 Hwy. 1089

Mandeville, LA 70448

985-624-4443

Website

Fishing around Slidell and New Orleans

Fishing around Slidell and New Orleans

Fishing near Slidell, Louisiana, offers anglers a paradise of diverse waters and abundant wildlife, making it a top destination for both novice and seasoned fishermen. Located just north of Lake Pontchartrain and close to the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, Slidell provides easy access to both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Popular spots include the Pearl River, where anglers can target species like bass, catfish, and crappie, as well as the nearby marshes and coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico, which are teeming with redfish, speckled trout, and flounder.

For those looking for a more guided experience, booking a local fishing charter is a fantastic option. Several experienced captains and guides in the area offer half and full-day trips, providing everything you need from bait and tackle to local knowledge of the best fishing spots. With its rich ecosystems and proximity to some of the best fishing grounds in the Gulf Coast, Slidell is an ideal launch point for a memorable day on the water, whether by boat or from the shore.