Reservations are available and fill up fast at Davis Bayou Campground, a National Park Service site within Gulf Islands National Seashore that runs $22 per night for sites with water and electric hookups, or half that with a senior pass. The campground holds 52 sites, most paved and capable of accommodating RVs up to 58 feet, though larger rigs should note that many sites are compact and close together, and park staff actively enforce rules about vehicles on the grass. A dump station sits near the bathhouse, a somewhat awkward central location but functional. Tenting works at some sites but not all, as terrain varies and a few spots have uneven ground or a steep drop to the fire ring area.
Wildlife sightings are a consistent theme across reviews. Alligators are regularly spotted along the trails, along with osprey, turtles, snakes, and various birds. Paddlers can take canoes or kayaks through the bayou and out toward open water, though tides shift conditions quickly and campers are advised to check them before heading out. A boat ramp is available on a fee basis. The visitor center is worth a stop, and ranger-led programs run regularly. Fishing is accessible from the pier and along the water.
Noise is the most consistent practical concern here. A nearby railroad produces significant train horn noise, often between 2 and 2:30 AM. Adjacent private residences on the spur side of the campground can add to the noise. Earplugs are a practical addition to the packing list. Mosquitoes are heavy in warm, humid weather, and bug spray is widely recommended. Cell service on Verizon works adequately for most visitors.
The bathhouse is older but kept clean, with individual shower rooms that lock and provide hot water and decent pressure. One reviewer noted the water has a slight smell. There is no laundry on site. Davis Bayou - Gulf Islands National Seashore is close to Ocean Springs and its restaurants, art studios, and walkable downtown, making it a reasonable base for exploring the Mississippi Gulf Coast. "The water has a bit of a smell to it," notes Gregg G., who also recommends the fishing pier and canoe access. Campers wanting a quieter or more isolated setup might consider Davis Bayou to the south as an alternative.
Description
Overview
Davis Bayou Campground is located east of downtown Ocean Springs, Mississippi, and is a part of Gulf Islands National Seashore. Visitors enjoy the campground for its easy access to boating, fishing, biking and hiking trails.
Recreation
Davis Bayou offers a wide range of yearround recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Popular activities include fishing, boating, biking, birdwatching, picnicking, and attending rangerled programs. The areas natural setting provides excellent opportunities to explore coastal habitats and view local wildlife.Visitors can enjoy hiking along the Davis Bayou Trail, which winds through a coastal forest and crosses two local bayous. Along the trail, there are chances to spot alligators and other reptiles in their natural environment.The Davis Bayou Campground is conveniently located approximately half a mile from the parks boat launch, making it ideal for paddlers and boaters. Campers also have easy access to the scenic Davis Bayou Trail. For those interested in fishing, a pier located near the William M. Colmer Visitor Center is available for use by anyone holding a valid Mississippi State Saltwater Fishing License.
Facilities
This small, yet quaint, campground is open for reservations year-round. It contains 52 sites with electric and water hookups. Sites can accommodate tents and RVs, big or small. The majority of the sites are 40+ feet in length. A group site, with water hookup, is also available to parties with a minimum of 10 individuals and a maximum of 40. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water and a dump station.
Natural Features
The campground is nestled among live oaks and pine trees and is adjacent to a saltwater marsh. Most campsites offer some shade throughout the day and all offer a tranquil setting for migratory bird watching and picnicking.
Nearby Attractions
Davis Bayou is home to many of the park's highly visited barrier islands, such as Horn, Petit Bois, East Ship and West Ship islands. Private boaters may enjoy fishing and swimming, as well as beach combing and bird watching. Private boaters may also enjoy island camping on all islands except West Ship Island, which is only open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. The barrier islands are accessible by boat only, therefore you may visit with your own boat or by private charter. Visitors may call 228-875-9057, ext. 114, for a list of park-approved licensed boat operators. Ferries run to West Ship Island from Gulfport, MS during the months March through October. For more information about the ferry service, please call Ship Island Excursions at 228-864-1014.
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Davis Bayou has installed keyless entry pads on all shower doors at the bathhouse. You will need to know the gate code to gain entrance to the showers. The gate code is in your confirmation emails, so please read them carefully. Please make sure that you fully close the door once you leave the shower area.
***Lawn Mowing Season at Davis Bayou*** Lawn mowing will take place every other Wednesday depending on weather conditions. Please keep lawn decor to a minimum on those days.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsDavis Bayou Campground is located in Mississippi near Ocean Springs
Directions
NORMAL DIRECTIONS From New Orleans, Slidell, Diamondhead or other points west on I-10: Travel east to Exit 50 MS 609/Ocean Springs. Keep right (South) on Washington Ave. toward Ocean Springs. In 2.5 miles turn left at the Red Light onto Bienville Blvd/Hwy 90 east. Turn right on Park Road entering Gulf Islands National Seashore Parkway. Follow signs to Davis Bayou Campground and Registration Office. From Pensacola or Mobile, or other points east on I-10: Travel west to Exit 57, Gautier/Ocean Springs. Turn left (South) onto MS Hwy 57. Travel 1/2 mile and take a right at the red light (Hwy 90). Look for brown sign on right, Park road on left. Stay straight to enter Gulf Islands National Seashore, Davis Bayou. Follow signs to Davis Bayou Campground and Registration Office.
Coordinates
30.3978222 N
88.7955194 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 32 usersLast on 8/5/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 32 usersLast on 8/5/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 4/17/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 32 usersLast on 8/5/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 32 usersLast on 8/5/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 4/17/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 19 min from Gulfport, MS
- 44 min from Mobile, AL
- 54 min from Slidell, LA
- 59 min from Daphne, AL





























































