Campers visiting Ackerman, Mississippi can explore several campground options within a 25-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level in Mississippi's red clay hill country, characterized by pine forests and rolling terrain. Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with summer humidity levels often exceeding 80% and winter temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
What to do
Lakeside hiking trails: Choctaw Lake features hiking paths circling the water, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing. "Very nice campground. Clean bath houses with showers, beautiful lake with a small beach. Access to mountain bike trails," notes Gregory H., who visited Choctaw Lake.
Fishing from shoreline: Multiple campsites at Dewayne Hayes Campground offer direct water access. "We launch and paddle from our site. The walking path is about 3 miles round trip from the the day-use boat ramp and playground to the campground end," explains Cyndi H., who appreciates the Dewayne Hayes Campground water access.
Barge watching: Observe commercial traffic on the Tombigbee Waterway from waterfront sites. A visitor to Town Creek Campground notes: "During the week, we enjoy watching pilots from the Columbus Air Force Base honing their skills. The barges, more frequent during the day, have the occasional after dark run."
What campers like
Quiet lake views: Campers consistently rate the peaceful atmosphere highly. "Sites 5 and 8 are our favorite. Really, any site on the small lake is great. Those are the smaller number spots. Almost always one available," shares Jonathon B. about his regular visits to Choctaw Lake.
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated campsites with water views. "Busy campground but enough space so it doesn't feel like your neighbors are right on top of you. Plenty of shade and many spots have a direct view of the Tenn-Tom Waterway," writes Will G. about his experience at Dewayne Hayes Campground.
Family-friendly areas: Recreation facilities near campsites appeal to groups with children. "We went in April with our scouting troop. Very busy even then. Lots of small hiking trails. Nothing too fancy. Dollar general 10 minutes down the road if you need anything," shares Marissa G., who visited with a youth group.
What you should know
Limited tent accommodations: Some campgrounds prioritize RV camping over tent sites. "If you get a spot on the lake it is definitely worth it but it is more like an RV resort not really made for tent camping," explains Nicole D. about her experience at Choctaw Lake.
Receding water levels: Drought conditions have affected some water features. "It's a basic KOA with clean showers, laundry, and full hookups. The lake that was an attraction including water slides and fishing docks is dry and has been for a couple of years," reports Chris B.
Cell reception variability: Connectivity ranges from good to minimal depending on carrier and location. "WiFi was not great except for AT&T which means there must be an AT&T tower nearby. All stores, Walmart, restaurants etc. are about a 12 minute drive away if needed," shares Chuck S.
Tips for camping with families
Pack water toys: Beaches and swimming areas provide cooling options during hot months. "Nice little beach for swimming, boating and fishing. All quite clean, water and power at each campsite, great showers," notes Lynn G. about Town Creek Campground.
Reserve waterfront sites early: The most popular locations book quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Stayed 3 nights with friends. Nice spacing between sites and a nice dispersion of FHU sites with electric & water sites. Gave people the option of choosing either and allowed us to still group camp," explains Rick G.
Bring insect protection: Evening humidity increases mosquito activity. "Nighttime can be quite humid and bug ridden but if you're equipped for it I'd say this spot is great for beginners or family trips," advises Maddox H.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs before arrival. "This is a great place to dump your tanks. Only one problem and we expect it to be resolved soon. The charge is $5.00," explains Randy C. about the Starkville KOA facilities.
Campsite navigation: Some campgrounds have unclear site markings. "We arrived after the office was closed. We had called ahead and they had a site saved for us. The only issue was, we could not find the site. The map they left only had the tent area not individual tent sites marked," shares Xander H.
Seasonal decorations: Holiday periods feature festive campsites. "Many sites decorated for Halloween. Even little trick or treaters. Many sites on the river. Cool to watch the working barges going by. And lots of armadillos," observes Shawn, describing the community atmosphere at glamping close to Ackerman, Mississippi.
