Bienville National Forest camping options span across 180,000 acres of central Mississippi pine forest. The forest contains several lakes, including Marathon Lake, with designated swimming areas and fishing opportunities. Camping season runs year-round in some areas, though certain campgrounds operate seasonally with Marathon Lake Campground open March through December and Shockaloe Base Camps available from April to October.
What to do
Fishing spots: Marathon Lake Campground offers dedicated fishing areas on the lake. According to one visitor, the location provides "Great bass fishing," with another mentioning their family "grew up coming here for the summer to fish, swim, ski."
Hiking trails: Several short trails circle Marathon Lake. One camper shared, "There is a trail around the lake which is a little under two miles around," making it ideal for casual day hikes.
Water recreation: Roosevelt State Park Campground features multiple water activities. "Lot's to do here. Hiking, boating, pool, water slides," reports one camper, highlighting the diverse water recreation options at this location.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds have designated swimming areas, though conditions vary by season. A visitor to Marathon Lake noted they "were able to swim in the designated area as well," adding that it was "relaxing."
Biking opportunities: Some campers bring bikes to explore the campgrounds. As one Marathon Lake visitor explained, "We rode our bikes around but that got pretty boring fast bc it's not that big of a campground."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Goshen Springs Campground receives praise for its generous camping spots. One reviewer noted, "Sites are spacious and level. Has easy access to the Pearl River and Ross Barnett Reservoir."
Privacy options: Some areas offer more secluded camping experiences. While Shockaloe Base Camp isn't heavily trafficked, making it attractive for those seeking quiet.
Lake views: Many campsites provide direct water access or views. At Roosevelt State Park, sites 14-17 are particularly popular as they're "flatter than others," with another camper adding these waterfront sites are "really large with plenty of room for tents and hammocks."
Concrete pads: Several campgrounds feature improved camping surfaces. At Goshen Springs Campground, campers appreciate the "nice large pads and yard with grill," with another mentioning "most sites are really level with minimal effort needed to finish leveling."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained grounds are frequently mentioned. At Goshen Springs, visitors find "clean restrooms and nice pool," while others praise the "very clean and well-maintained" grounds.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Bienville National Forest Marathon Lake runs from March 1 to December 13, while Shockaloe Base Camps open April through October.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Marathon Lake, one camper noted, "Bathrooms are falling apart but there is a shower with hot water if you dare."
Cell reception: Connectivity is limited in many areas. A Marathon Lake visitor reported "Very spotty cellphone reception," which can affect planning and communication.
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. Yogi on the Lake has sites where "the rv gravel pads were extremely un-level," and at others, campers noted sites that "drop off as soon as you leave the pad."
Litter problems: Some dispersed camping areas suffer from trash issues. At Caney Creek on Forest Road 503, one visitor decided against staying because of "all the garbage in the bushes that turned me away."
Tips for camping with families
Water parks: Yogi on the Lake - Jellystone Pelahatchie offers extensive water attractions. A visitor shared, "The slides were awesome and the tent camping were good," though another noted the water can be cold, adding "Water park is heated which I didn't know and wished we brought swim suits."
Planned activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular events. At Yogi on the Lake, they offer "pool, slides, jumping pad, playground, mini golf, tennis, basketball, planned activities each day for family fun."
Wildlife viewing: Kids often enjoy the natural inhabitants. At Yogi on the Lake - Jellystone Pelahatchie, campers "stayed on the lakes edge, had visits from geese, ducks, rabbits and squirrels."
Seasonal events: Special holiday programs attract families with children. One Yogi on the Lake - Jellystone visitor mentioned, "The trick or treating is the best. Start right when you can because there are so many sites offering candy or haunted areas."
Swimming areas: Most lake campgrounds have designated swimming spots. A Marathon Lake visitor noted the campground "had a designated swimming area which was alright to go do," providing safe water recreation for children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many RV sites require adjustments. At Yogi on the Lake, some visitors found their site "was very sloped so getting in the camper was difficult because the steps were so high off the ground."
Hookup options: Service levels vary by campground. Roosevelt State Park offers full hookups with 50-amp service, while Marathon Lake provides electric and water with a dump station.
Overnight options: For travelers passing through, Love's RV Hookup provides convenient stops. A visitor explained, "There are 5 RV sites at this location. They are easy to reserve on Love's website," adding it's "Well-lit and safe" for overnight stays.
Site selection: Some campsites work better for larger rigs. At Roosevelt State Park, sites in the "14-17 area" are noted as "flatter than others," while "spots in the 'older' area seem more spaced out."
Pad materials: Surface types impact the camping experience. Several campgrounds feature concrete pads, while others have gravel that may require more leveling.
