Lets get one thing straight right off the bat. we are a couple of 60 yr old hayseeds from the Canadian prairies and like it that way. We are planning a trip this winter following the Gulf of Mexico fr...
Yes, make reservations. If you're going to New Orleans, Bayou Segnette State Park is a great campground. Not extremely close to the French Quarter, but within driving distance, and a very secure campground in the middle of N.O. Watch your wallet at Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Mobile Alabama also has a Mardi Gras that is a little "tamer". In fact Mobile was the original! Similar parades, but not as big.