Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area offers some of the most distinctive terrain in Louisiana, with steep ravines and bluffs rising 90 feet above creek bottoms. The area receives approximately 60 inches of rainfall annually, creating seasonal waterfalls and lush vegetation. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full electric hookups, with several glamping opportunities emerging in recent years.
What to do
Hiking at Clark Creek Natural Area: Located about 10 minutes from Jackson, this area features multiple trail options with varying difficulty. "We hiked down to the creek from the site and also went to Clear Springs Recreation Area. There are 17 miles of hiking trails surrounding the area. It looks like a large circuit with shorter trails interconnecting by the map," notes one visitor.
Explore seasonal waterfalls: During spring months after heavy rains, waterfalls become accessible throughout the region. "Tunica trails and waterfalls that everyone knows of are less than 10 miles from the campground. The geography here is not like anywhere else I have seen in Louisiana," reports a camper at Tunica Hills Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Many nearby lakes and ponds offer fishing opportunities year-round. "Visitors can choose to hike into the campground or be driven in by ATV if available. Less than 10 miles from the Tunica trails and waterfalls that everyone knows of," mentions an experienced camper. Bring your own gear as rental options are limited.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered at certain campgrounds. "Most campsites are secluded from others. I recommend this place to anyone," writes a reviewer about their experience at Percy Quin State Park.
Unique terrain: The topography surprises many visitors. "One of the most beautiful camp sites in LA. The geography here is not like anywhere else I have seen in Louisiana very nice and the owner is super accommodating," shares one camper about the hills and ravines that make glamping close to Jackson, Louisiana so distinctive.
Year-round accessibility: Unlike some seasonal destinations, the moderate climate keeps most trails and campgrounds open throughout the year. "Nice campsite..we had the area to ourselves..alot of hiking trails nearby for all different skill levels..the terrain is amazing couldn't believe I was actually in Louisiana," notes a winter visitor.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Reception varies significantly throughout the area. "You'll get cell service on the upper loop. None on the lower but it seems to be the best area for family with little ones as it's easier to ride bikes around," cautions a visitor at Clear Springs Recreation Area.
Supplies and preparation: The remote location means bringing everything you need. "It's a peaceful place to camp. Just make sure you bring all your supplies you think you might need because there isn't any store for miles," advises one camper.
Weather impacts: Heavy rainfall can affect trail conditions and accessibility. "We had a great weekend stay, and the weather was awesome, a little chilly in the mornings, but otherwise great. Be sure and hike the nature trail at the north end of the park. Part of the trail is a boardwalk through the swamp(but one section is in disrepair)."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Choose appropriate trails for younger children. "The campground has areas for the kids to play in the woods some of the areas are steep and they needed supervision (5&6 year old). It's about a 10 minute drive to the wildlife management area if you are in to that. Geocaching and several trails nearby," shares a visitor at Tunica Hills Campground.
Recreational amenities: Some campgrounds offer additional activities. "We enjoyed that it was walk in but still had running water and hook ups," mentions one family who enjoyed luxury glamping close to Jackson, Louisiana with smaller children who needed regular access to facilities.
Insect preparation: Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially during warmer months. "We hiked some of Richardson Creek Trail, but decided to turn around because it was overgrown at points and we found ticks on our dog. Otherwise, it was a beautiful walk through the woods."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on your equipment. "Back-in site with asphalt parking. The picnic table has concrete around it, but there is a 2 foot gap of dirt between the asphalt parking and the concrete. There is no BBQ pit or fire ring. 15A/30A/50A, water, and sewer hookups," explains an RV camper at Tickfaw State Park Campground.
Size limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on RV length due to narrow roads. "Campground roads were narrow and there were no signs at intersections in the campground indicating which loop to take for which campsite numbers. Both AT&T and Verizon had weak signal(2 bars each) and slow data."
Camping without vehicles: Some sites require parking and walking to your site. "Visitors can choose to hike into the campground or be driven in by ATV if available. The campground had plenty of tinder and firewood. Outdoor showers were actually not too bad in October, and I felt that they were private enough."
