Tent and RV camping near Ackerman, Mississippi offers several options in the Tombigbee National Forest region. Located in Choctaw County with elevations averaging around 500 feet, this area experiences typical southern humidity with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Satellite service varies significantly between campgrounds, with most national forest sites having minimal coverage for navigation and emergency communications.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Jeff Busby Campground, visitors can access the Little Mountain Trail. "Nice nature walk to a view, 1 mile each way," notes one camper. The trail features moderate elevation changes and serves as the highest point in Mississippi with panoramic views.
Disc golf: Near Choctaw Lake, disc golf courses provide recreational opportunities. While some campers "don't play," the course availability adds activity options beyond standard camping and fishing.
Fishing from shore: Choctaw Lake offers bank fishing directly from campsites. "Large bass in the smaller lake. I haven't even had a bite in the larger lake," reports one regular visitor. Spring and early summer provide the best fishing conditions before summer heat makes fish less active.
What campers like
Lakeside sites: Campers prefer waterfront sites at Choctaw Lake. "Camp sites 3-12 is where you want to be. There is a playground for kids, a boat dock if you have one, or you can just fish right off your site," writes one reviewer.
Digital disconnection: Limited connectivity creates authentic outdoor experiences. "No WiFi and very little cell signal, as camping should be," noted one Choctaw Lake camper. Most campgrounds in the area have minimal ATT coverage.
Budget-friendly options: Jeff Busby Campground on the Natchez Trace offers no-cost camping. "This site is a very popular one night stay about mid-point on the Natchez Trace Parkway. The way the campground is constructed makes this a unique place to stay," explains one visitor.
What you should know
Site spacing considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly. Jeff Busby sites are "very close together causing lots of social interactions. That's the best and worst thing about the campground," while some sites require unconventional parking arrangements.
Tent pad limitations: Tent campers face restrictions at some locations. At Choctaw Lake, "tents cannot be set up on grass; only on their 'tent pads' (jagged rocks). I asked the camp host if any sites had actual tent pads instead of rocks and was told no."
Bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds provide basic restrooms with varying amenities. At Jeff Busby, "bathrooms were very old and could have used an upgrade," while another camper noted they were "clean but older and not heated... and no hot water or soap."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Whites Creek Lake Campground and Choctaw Lake provide swimming areas. Choctaw Lake features a "nice little beach for swimming" that stays relatively clean but lacks lifeguard supervision.
Playground availability: Families with children benefit from dedicated play areas. "There is a playground for kids," reports one Choctaw Lake visitor, making it suitable for families with younger children needing activity options beyond nature exploration.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to see native species. Campers have "saw eagles and some cute little red birds we couldn't identify" at Choctaw Lake, making early morning hours ideal for wildlife observation.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through navigation: At Jeff Busby Campground, be prepared for unusual site configurations. "Paved pull through sites are first come first serve. They seem to overlap and lots of folk share the sites. So you may need to back up to get out, even if it is pull through."
Dump station logistics: Plan waste disposal carefully. Choctaw Lake's dump station costs $5, but payment can be problematic as "there is no one to pay! The sign claims you can pay in the park, the dump is outside the park, at the entrance or exit."
RV amenities: For full hookups, consider The Oaks RV Park near Ackerman. "This is great little campground. The Cabins were recently added and is a nice feature. Always quiet and owners are very accommodating," reports one satisfied guest.
