Turkey Creek Water Park offers dedicated equestrian camping and trail riding facilities approximately 30 miles from Brandon, Mississippi. The campground features direct access to trail networks traversing the surrounding Mississippi landscape. Recent improvements have created more level camping areas for both recreational vehicles and horse trailers. The water park maintains year-round operation with full amenities including hot showers and laundry facilities for overnight guests.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Creek Reservoir provides excellent fishing conditions with multiple species available. "Lilly pads and bass" notes Brad O., highlighting the vegetation that creates prime fishing habitat at Turkey Creek Water Park.
Water recreation: The reservoir offers various water activities beyond fishing. "By 'water park' they mean 'park with recreation activities on the water' not a man made park with slides and rides," explains Lynn G. "Enjoy fishing and especially water skiing with your own boat or a boat rented on site."
Mountain biking: Trail systems around Turkey Creek include beginner-friendly mountain biking routes. Lynn G. mentions, "There is mountain biking and hiking (all easy trails), a sandy beach, and just a nice relaxing atmosphere." These trails connect to the equestrian paths but remain separated for safety.
What campers like
Spacious layout: Campers appreciate the uncrowded atmosphere at equestrian campgrounds. "This is one of the best campgrounds around hands down plenty of space not crowded," shares Tony H. about Yogi on the Lake, noting the importance of adequate space when camping with horses.
Waterfront views: Sites overlooking the water receive consistently positive feedback. Cindy S. describes Turkey Creek as a "Hidden Gem" with a "Nice campsite with lake view." The proximity to water provides both scenic value and convenient access for watering horses.
Staff assistance: Campground personnel familiar with equestrian needs receive praise. Tony H. notes that "the people that work there are super friendly and helpful. We go there all the time." This consistent support proves valuable for horse owners requiring specialized assistance.
What you should know
Campsite improvements: Turkey Creek has undergone recent upgrades to better accommodate equestrian camping. Nelwyn B. confirms this development, stating it's a "Small campground on a lake. Pretty and quiet. Recent work on campsites to create level sites." These improvements specifically address the needs of larger rigs and horse trailers at Bienville National Forest Shockaloe Base Camp 1.
Reservation recommendations: Limited equestrian-specific sites make advance booking essential, particularly during peak seasons. Availability fluctuates seasonally, with spring and fall representing the highest demand periods due to moderate temperatures ideal for trail riding.
Water access fees: Some locations charge additional fees for reservoir access beyond camping costs. Lynn G. notes this can be unexpected: "costs a little more to access the lake (not bad, just a surprise)." These fees typically range from $3-8 per person depending on the facility and season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Facilities offering both horse-related and water-based recreation provide versatility for mixed-interest families. Claire M. shares about Yogi on the Lake: "Fun campground for the kiddos. Loved all of the activities and amenities available... Activity center was awesome especially for rainy days."
Weather considerations: Seasonal variations affect both equestrian and water activities. Ashley S. observes, "We stopped quick passing through and it was nice an quiet. Seemed like they had a lot of water activities for summer time." Summer offers full water recreation but can be uncomfortably hot for trail riding.
Camping alternatives: For non-riders or mixed groups, cabin options provide flexibility. Kesha mentions that Turkey Creek offers "Clean with nice bunk houses," making it suitable for family members who prefer not to tent camp while still participating in equestrian activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for potentially uneven terrain at some equestrian campgrounds. Ashley S. reports, "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."
Space requirements: Horse trailers combined with RVs require substantially more room than standard camping. RV sites designated for equestrians typically provide additional parking areas specifically dimensioned for horse trailers adjacent to the camping pad.
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections remain limited at horse-friendly campgrounds. Sites with 50-amp service should be reserved well in advance, especially for larger rigs or extended stays during summer months when air conditioning becomes essential.
