Big Foot Horse Trail and Camp serves as a dedicated equestrian camping area in De Soto National Forest, providing riders with direct access to forest trails. Located approximately 30 miles south of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, this free primitive camping area sits amid longleaf pine forests typical of southern Mississippi's coastal plain. The campground remains open throughout the year with variable temperatures ranging from summer highs in the 90s to winter lows in the 30s.
What to do
Trail riding loops: The connecting trail system allows for rides of various lengths through the De Soto National Forest terrain. According to one visitor at Big Foot Horse Trail and Camp, "Campgrounds are beautiful with line forests surrounding the sites."
Water recreation: For those wanting to alternate between riding and swimming, nearby parks offer water activities. At Flint Creek Waterpark, a camper notes, "Swimming, boating, hiking, fishing, and small playground available. The water park is not anything 'great', but it's something for little kids."
Overnight fishing: Some nearby camping areas provide fishing opportunities for those wanting to combine equestrian activities with angling. One visitor to Flint Creek Waterpark mentioned, "The back of the site backs up to the lake, with plenty of beach to fish or hangout."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Cost-conscious equestrians appreciate the free camping at Big Foot. As Sam O. describes it, "Utilities are primitive but expected for a free campground. Watch where you step! Lots of horse poop."
Privacy in wooded settings: Many campgrounds in the region offer secluded sites. At Forest County Multi-Purpose Events Center, a visitor remarked, "Great place to stop if you just need to get off the road. There wasn't anything going on at the multipurpose center, so we pretty much had our pick of the 147 spots."
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently mention wildlife sightings near Hattiesburg. One tent camper at Flint Creek noted, "We did encounter coyote, deer, and lots of talkative geese, so be prepared for some wildlife interaction."
What you should know
Varied sanitation levels: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Big Creek Water Park, a visitor mentioned "Clean restrooms," while at Forest County Multi-Purpose Events Center, another noted it "Really needs some better maintenance and cleaning especially restrooms."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven sites. One RVer at Flint Creek reported, "The only issue I had with the spots were they were all uneven, but somehow I was able to level my 37' travel trailer on the first try without any leveling aids."
Seasonal differences: October through December offers unique camping experiences with fewer crowds. A camper at Flint Creek noted, "We stayed during the second weekend of Dec. weather was brisk with a small amount of rain on Saturday. Had a beautiful view of the water where you could fish."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween camping events: October brings special activities for children at some campgrounds. One family observed at Flint Creek Waterpark, "We stayed here during Halloween and it was pretty crowded. We prefer more secluded camping sites, and this campground provides plenty of space despite being so packed. There were several RV campgrounds that had decorations and trick-or-treating."
Beach areas for kids: Certain campgrounds offer beach access ideal for families with children. A visitor mentioned, "Tent camping with the family was a great time. Grounds are nice with boat access."
Shaded sites for summer comfort: When equestrian camping near Hattiesburg in summer months, look for well-shaded locations. One camper noted, "Great spot of swimming and biking. Private spots and great shade."
Tips from RVers
Payment systems vary: Different campgrounds have different payment procedures. At Forest County Multi-Purpose Events Center, an RVer explained, "Payment is the honor system. $20 on the way out!"
Utility access points: Water connections can be problematic at some sites. A camper at Flint Creek observed, "The only thing I had negative review of was how low the water spigot was in the ground."
Cell service availability: Mobile connectivity varies by location, important for those needing to stay connected. One camper at Flint Creek Waterpark noted, "Att service was good."
