Brookhaven, Mississippi offers diverse camping opportunities within the pine forests and gentle hills of southwest Mississippi. The region typically receives 57 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures averaging in the upper 80s. Campgrounds near Brookhaven range from state parks to privately owned resorts, most situated along waterways that provide natural recreation options.
What to do
Hiking trails: Clear Springs Recreation Area features 17 miles of interconnected hiking paths through the Homochitto National Forest. "There are excellent hiking/biking trails in 20+ miles winding through the area. The spring itself was very chilly and refreshing after a long day of adventuring," notes a camper at Clear Springs Lake Rec Area NF Campground.
Water activities: Strong River at DLo Water Park offers kayaking opportunities for all skill levels. "We kayaked the long leg of the Strong River from here. Excellent kayaking," shares one visitor at DLo Water Park. The park provides canoe rentals and shuttle service for float trips.
Wildlife viewing: Paradise Ranch RV Resort features free-roaming red stag deer and potbelly pigs that visitors can interact with. "Families abound! Clean and well organized. The welcome pig was a nice touch! And another morning watching him stroll by for his morning walk. You can feed the deer. They walk right up to you!"
What campers like
Lake access: Lake Lincoln State Park provides waterfront camping with fishing opportunities. "We enjoyed fishing and kayaking on the lake. The campground is very scenic with lake views," explains a reviewer at Lake Lincoln State Park Campground.
Shaded sites: Wendy Oaks RV Resort offers well-shaded camping near an 8-acre lake. "Spacious park that's easy to navigate and get parked and set up. The grounds are peaceful and there's a little lake and looks like you could rent a kayak," writes a visitor. The resort includes free watercraft use for guests.
Swimming options: Clear Springs features a sandy swimming area divided for different skill levels. "There is a great lake that you can swim in," reports one camper. The spring-fed water stays cool even during hot Mississippi summers, making it a popular local spot.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Heavy rainfall can affect camping conditions during spring and winter. "Had a night of rain and lightning when we stayed there! Camped on the hill passed the boat launch nice to hear the flowing water when the thunder died down."
Wildlife awareness: Snakes and other wildlife are common throughout the area. "There are a lot of poisonous snakes at this spot so be aware of your surroundings," cautions a DLo Water Park visitor. Some campgrounds have resident wildlife like deer and pigs.
Reservation requirements: Most private campgrounds near Brookhaven require advance booking, especially on weekends. "Book early!" advises a Paradise Ranch camper. Paradise Ranch RV Resort fills quickly during peak seasons and holidays with their family-oriented amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Paradise Ranch Resort caters specifically to families with children. "Paradise Ranch is a great family campground! It is the home to free roaming red stag deer and potbelly pigs. You can feed them all right from your campsite."
Safety precautions: Supervise children near water features. "The lake needs to be restocked," notes a Lake Lincoln visitor, suggesting fishing success varies. Designated swimming areas provide safer options than river access points.
Entertainment options: Wendy Oaks RV Resort offers family-friendly recreation on its private lake. "Such a nice RV Park. We stayed in spot #1 and had a beautiful view of the lake, nice fire pit and picnic table. Our kids and babies loved feeding the ducks and walking around the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs and rig size. "If you are with kids and/or in a tent then sites 1-12 are perfect. Also… not every site can handle a large rig," advises an RVer at Clear Springs Lake Rec Area NF Campground.
Leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the hilly terrain require leveling equipment. "The sites were large and shady and level," reports a Percy Quin State Park visitor about their camping experience.
Access routes: Some campgrounds have specific access requirements. "Located on Highway 49 so easy access (be aware of the u-turn required when heading South on 49, there is a back road route if don't want to make u-turn)." Larger RVs should call ahead to confirm site suitability for rv camping near Brookhaven, Mississippi.
