Turkey Creek Water Park provides dedicated equestrian camping near Bienville National Forest within east-central Mississippi's pine forest ecosystem. The campground sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level in rolling terrain characterized by sandy soils and mixed pine-hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Creek reservoir offers productive bass fishing among lily pads. "Lilly pads and bass," notes Brad O. at Turkey Creek Water Park. The lake supports multiple species with accessible shoreline fishing spots.
Water recreation: The reservoir provides boating access and swimming areas during warmer months. "By 'water park' they mean 'park with recreation activities on the water' not a man made park with slides and rides. Enjoy fishing and especially water skiing with your own boat or a boat rented on site," explains a reviewer at Turkey Creek Water Park.
Trail exploration: Multiple trail systems accommodate hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians in the surrounding forest. Shockaloe Base Camp 1 serves as a trailhead for forest exploration. Trails range from 1-5 miles in length with moderate terrain suitable for various skill levels.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: The smaller camping areas maintain a quiet environment away from larger, busier parks. "Small campground on a lake. Pretty and quiet. Recent work on campsites to create level sites. Enjoy camping there," shares Nelwyn B. at Turkey Creek Water Park.
Spacious campsites: Big Creek Water Park offers well-spaced sites with natural buffers. "Tent camping with the family was a great time. Grounds are nice with boat access. Clean restrooms," notes casey P.
Scenic waterfront views: Most equestrian camping areas maintain proximity to water features. "We stayed here when the sites in the nearby National Forest were full and enjoyed it so much we added a day to our trip. That you can rent boats on site makes it so much easier!" mentions a Turkey Creek Water Park visitor.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Some equestrian camping areas provide only basic amenities. At Dunns Falls Water Park, Gregory H. reports: "Camping area is about five tables and grills scattered on edge of property. No real sites (no tent pads, no fire rings). Water spigots scattered around but most don't work."
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings higher occupancy and humidity. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures but occasional storms. Winter camping requires preparation for cold nights, though days remain mild compared to northern states.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas require advance booking during peak seasons. Many sites can be reserved online through county or forest service websites, with fees ranging from $15-35 per night depending on hookup availability.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Different parks offer varying levels of family-friendly features. At Yogi on the Lake, Claire M. shares: "Fun campground for the kiddos. Loved all of the activities and amenities available. Activity center was awesome especially for rainy days. Kiddos were obsessed with jumping pillow."
Swimming safety: Water areas lack lifeguards and have natural hazards. Parents should closely supervise children around all water features, particularly after rainfall when currents strengthen.
Educational opportunities: Many equestrian camping areas near Bienville National Forest include interpretive signs about local ecology. Some parks offer weekend ranger programs during summer months where children can learn about forest habitats.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many equestrian camping areas have uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. At Yogi on the Lake, Ashley S. notes: "Our site was a very tight pull thru site. We definitely wouldn't of been able to pull out if the park was full. The site was very sloped so getting in the camper was difficult because the steps were so high off the ground."
Campground navigation: Access roads to equestrian camping facilities may present challenges for larger rigs. Most horse-friendly sites accommodate trailers but turning radius can be limited in some areas.
Utility connections: Water and electric hookups exist at most developed horse camping areas, though amperage varies. "This is one of the best campgrounds around hands down plenty of space not crowded and the people that work there are super friendly and helpful," reports Tony H. about Turkey Creek Water Park.
