Bay St. Louis sits along Mississippi's Gulf Coast where the Pearl River meets the Gulf of Mexico, creating a mixture of freshwater and saltwater environments at just 10 feet above sea level. The coastal camping areas experience mild winters with average temperatures between 45-65°F, while summer months bring higher humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: White's Bayou RV Park offers waterfront sites with direct access to excellent fishing. According to one camper, "Several spots back right up to the water. Perfect for fishers." The park provides boat launch access to connect with nearby waterways.
Beach access: Cajun RV Park is situated just across from Biloxi Beach, about 30 minutes from Bay St. Louis. "Gulf and beach access right across the street. Close to all the casinos, great restaurants and beach boardwalk," notes one visitor. The beach is within walking distance, though some campers recommend bringing bikes.
Family activities: Nearby entertainment includes go-karting and mini-golf. "There are several amenities that make this the perfect place to camp and is reasonably priced. The only con is the go cart track next door can be loud so get a site away from it," advises a Cajun RV Park visitor.
What campers like
Water access: Lake LaCroix RV Resort features a clear-water lake with fishing opportunities. "The lake water is crystal clear with plenty of fish. Very peaceful here! We spent time at the natural playground, swimming in the beautiful pool, fishing and bicycling," reports one visitor.
Convenient location: RV Park At Menge offers easy highway access while minimizing road noise. "Nice campground close to the interstate but far enough to minimize road noise. The camp sites were well spaced with paved pads," notes a camper. Visitors also appreciate the weekend flea market located at the entrance.
Level camping pads: Many Gulf Coast RV parks feature concrete pads that help with leveling. "The pads are level and concrete," reports a visitor to Bay St. Louis RV Park and Campground. Sites at Silver Slipper are also noted for their concrete aprons that accommodate larger RVs.
What you should know
Limited facilities at some parks: Silver Slipper Beachfront RV Park lacks restroom facilities. "Fine if you're self contained. Walk across street to beach. They will comp a night of camping if you sign up to gamble in the casino," notes a visitor. Another adds, "No bathroom, no laundry."
Reservation requirements: Most parks require advance bookings, especially during winter months. Silver Slipper has a strict policy about length of stay: "They will make you move on 7th day...no exceptions. Had to move for one night down to Buccaneer state park."
Site size considerations: Some RV parks have tight spacing between sites. At Oaklawn RV Park, a camper noted, "The spots are very close to one another, but they are limestone spots at least." Similar space constraints exist at other area campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools that provide alternatives to beach swimming. At Lake LaCroix RV Resort, "The pool area is very nice with outdoor furniture, fire pits and loungers," according to a visitor who enjoyed a weekend getaway.
Playground access: Shields RV Park in nearby Gulfport includes a large dog park within walking distance. For families with children, White's Bayou RV Park offers "a kid's playground, swimming pool and large RV campsites."
Local entertainment: Families can find activities beyond the campgrounds within short distances. "Close location to the boat launch for easy access to the Jourdan River," notes a Lake LaCroix visitor. Most campgrounds are within 30 minutes of major Gulf Coast attractions.
Tips from RVers
Mobile service: Cell coverage is generally strong throughout the Bay St. Louis area. At Lake LaCroix, "Verizon cell service was very strong. The parks WiFi works great as well," according to a recent visitor.
Site selection strategy: When booking at Cajun RV Park, choose sites away from the go-kart track for a quieter experience. "The biggest disappointment was the close proximity to a go-cart track (next door)," notes one RVer.
Casino perks: Southern Oaks Mobile Home & RV Community provides affordable full hookup sites in Gulfport, about 20 minutes from Bay St. Louis. Silver Slipper Casino offers camping discounts: "If you 'join' at the nearby Casino for eligible play, you will get a free night in return."