Forest Service Road 526 in Bienville National Forest provides free dispersed camping with no amenities or formal sites. Located within a mixed pine-hardwood forest at elevations ranging from 300-500 feet, this area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters. The main camping area consists of an informal clearing that accommodates both tents and small to medium RVs on relatively level ground.
What to do
Fishing at Turkey Creek Water Park: Anglers can access the Turkey Creek reservoir for bass fishing among the lily pads. "Lilly pads and bass," notes one reviewer at Turkey Creek Water Park, who clearly enjoyed the fishing opportunities. The park also offers boat rentals for those without their own equipment.
Hiking on marked trails: Roosevelt State Park provides hiking trails with navigation markings. "A couple hiking trails which were nice. Marked with paint on trees as to not get lost," mentions a camper. The trails are accessible directly from the campground, making them convenient for day hikes.
Water recreation options: Multiple water activities are available at several locations. As one visitor to Timberlake Campground points out, "It's close to lots of restaurants and any other store you would need anything from. The lake water is clean for the most part."
What campers like
Quiet, secluded camping spots: The dispersed camping on Forest Service Road 526 provides isolation for those seeking privacy. "Isolated. Big site no fire ring no other camp sites that I have seen," reports a camper who appreciated the seclusion of this free camping area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: LeFleur's Bluff State Park offers surprising wildlife encounters despite its urban location. One camper describes, "We sat outside even in the 98+ heat to see the activity on the lake. This campground is right off of the interstate but feels like you are in the country."
Clean facilities at established campgrounds: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained amenities at Coal Bluff Park, with one noting it's "Average. All basic amenities. Well maintained." This provides a good middle ground between primitive camping and full resort amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making shade important. "Most sites have plenty of trees and shade," reports a visitor to Roosevelt State Park, which helps keep both people and pets comfortable during hot months.
Uneven terrain at some sites: Several campgrounds have challenging topography. A camper at LeFleur's Bluff State Park notes, "Bathhouse in good condition. Pads are level and clear. Nice space between each site. Shady and clean."
Pet policies vary by location: While most campgrounds in the area are pet-friendly, specific rules differ. The pet-friendly campgrounds in Bienville National Forest typically require leashing dogs when outside vehicles or camping units, with proper waste disposal expected throughout the grounds.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Several parks offer swimming options beyond natural lakes. "Great place to camp. Right in the middle of Jackson MS. Quiet, great day time area with playground and picnic spots across the lake from the campground," shares a visitor to LeFleur's Bluff, highlighting amenities that keep children entertained.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds provide access to museums and learning experiences. "The trails are lovely, easy walks through cypress swamps and dry forest. One way the trail leads to a dam with old structures and great fishing opportunities, the other fork leads you to the museum of natural science! My children loved that!"
Safety considerations: Parents should be aware of wildlife encounters, especially near water. "We got to see alligators and a beaver while there. It's a very fun park in the middle of town. You would never know it though!" warns a camper at LeFleur's Bluff, suggesting supervision near water bodies.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some RV sites require significant leveling. A visitor to Goshen Springs Campground notes, "In fact, most sites are really level with minimal effort needed to finish leveling. Electric and water were easily accessible."
Access considerations: Many campgrounds accommodate larger rigs but have varying accessibility. "The rv gravel pads were extremely un-level, even after waiting 2 hours, watching them add 7 tractor buckets of gravel the pad was still un-level," reports one camper, emphasizing the importance of checking site specifications before arrival.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are available at several dog-friendly campgrounds near Bienville National Forest. "We stayed in N28 in a 38' gooseneck and the concrete pad was pretty much level. Electric and water were easily accessible," shares an RVer, highlighting the convenient setup for larger vehicles.
