LeFleur's Bluff State Park Campground offers a unique camping experience within Jackson city limits, just 15 miles from Brandon. The 305-acre park features cypress swamps alongside the Pearl River with multiple wildlife viewing opportunities. Campers regularly spot alligators, rabbits, and various bird species while enjoying the park's natural setting amid urban surroundings.
What to do
Fishing at the reservoir: Timberlake Campground provides direct access to the Ross Barnett Reservoir. "Beautiful and spread out nicely. On the water makes for some great walks. Pull thrus and back ins are all spacious," notes one visitor who enjoyed the waterfront location.
Explore nature trails: At LeFleur's Bluff State Park Campground, visitors can hike through diverse ecosystems. "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," writes one camper who discovered the park's natural attractions.
Play disc golf: Several campgrounds near Brandon feature disc golf courses. "RV sites, tent, monthly rentals. Disc golf course was a huge plus since I love disc golf," mentions a Timberlake visitor who appreciated this recreational option.
What campers like
Urban wilderness contrast: Campers appreciate how LeFleur's Bluff State Park Campground offers nature immersion despite its city location. "This MS state park is smack dab in the middle of Jackson, MS. It is snuggled in the woods along a river. The bathrooms and sites were clean. Every site has a beautiful view," notes a reviewer who was surprised by the setting.
Convenience to amenities: Timberlake Campground campers value the proximity to shopping. "We have camped the last 2 years for the local half Ironman race and it's more than just convenient, it's perfect for what we want. This campground is right on the reservoir, but immediately near any restaurant, grocery, event space you want," explains a repeat visitor.
Private shower facilities: Clean bathhouses with private shower stalls are frequently mentioned in reviews. "The bath house wasn't the best but the scenery is great! There are gnats...and more gnats...and more gnats so be prepared for that," advises one LeFleur's Bluff visitor, highlighting both positives and practical challenges.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Alligator sightings are common at several glamping locations close to Brandon, Mississippi. "Had my morning coffee and watched a 7ft gator swimming and paying us no mind. Most amazing thing I've seen. I'm a city dweller that loves nature so this was a first for me with the gator sighting in the wild," shares a visitor to LeFleur's Bluff.
Seasonal considerations: Turkey Creek Water Park offers different experiences throughout the year. "Enjoy fishing and especially water skiing with your own boat or a boat rented on site. There is mountain biking and hiking (all easy trails), a sandy beach, and just a nice relaxing atmosphere," mentions a visitor who extended their stay.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Brandon require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We got in late so we registered at the closed office door by putting our $27 payment in an envelope in the door slot. How convenient! Close to Hwy 55, clean and quiet," explains a visitor to Movietown RV Park who appreciated the flexible check-in.
Tips for camping with families
Museum access: LeFleur's Bluff State Park Campground offers unique educational opportunities. "Jackson MS LeFleur's Bluff SP Small state park with 30 sites w/e only on small lake. Campground located next to Mississippi Museum of Natural History, a Children's Museum, Ag Museum and a golf course too," notes one visitor highlighting the family-friendly attractions.
Heated water activities: When glamping close to Brandon at Yogi on the Lake - Jellystone Pelahatchie, families can enjoy water recreation year-round. "So much fun, so much to do! We stayed on the lakes edge, had visits from geese, ducks, rabbits and squirrels. Beautiful and very clean area. Pool, slides, jumping pad, playground, mini golf, tennis, basketball, planned activities each day for family fun," shares an enthusiastic summer visitor.
Seasonal events: Holiday weekends offer special programming at several campgrounds. "Very clean! The slides were awesome and the tent camping were good. Would def like to go back once it cools down," notes a summer visitor to Jellystone who found the heat challenging but enjoyed the amenities.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Lake Lincoln State Park Campground provides concrete pads for RVs, but site quality varies. "We were at site 64, which is directly on the lake. Concrete pad, that was pretty level. 25 dollars a night," reports a camper who found a prime location.
Utilities and amenities: Full hookups are available at multiple campgrounds, with varying quality. "We have camped at Lake Lincoln several times. Very nice campground with most of the amenities you could want. Very busy campground on holiday weekends. Camped very near the water. Sites are a little closer than I usually like but sites are nice and view of lake is great," shares a repeat visitor.
Overnight convenience: For those simply passing through the Brandon area, some campgrounds offer streamlined processes. "For 30$ a night u get a level gravel drive thru spot electric, sewer, water, and wifi, laundry facilities and bath house very very clean. Very quiet all thru the day and night. Friendly people all round," notes a Movietown RV Park visitor who appreciated the value and amenities.
