Best Tent Camping near Brookhaven, MS
Rocky Springs Campground provides tent campers with primitive sites along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, located approximately 30 miles from Brookhaven, Mississippi. This free, first-come, first-served National Park Service campground offers paved tent sites nestled among tall shade trees and features nearby hiking trails that lead to the remnants of an abandoned town. Okatoma Water Park in Magee offers additional tent camping with river access for those seeking water activities during their stay.
Tent sites at Rocky Springs include picnic tables, fire rings, and grills but limited amenities beyond the basics. The campground has flush toilets but no drinking water, showers, or hookups, making it essential for tent campers to arrive with all necessary supplies. The water from bathroom sinks is not potable, with multiple visitors noting its brown tint. Cell service is minimal to non-existent, particularly for Verizon users. The campground generally remains open year-round but features no camp host on site, creating a self-sufficient backcountry tent camping experience.
Sites at Rocky Springs provide ample space for tent setups with moderate privacy between campsites. Lower sections may experience more road noise and wet conditions, while higher elevation sites offer drier ground. The surrounding area features multiple hiking options including trails to the historic Rocky Springs church, cemetery, and abandoned town foundations. The dense forest setting provides good shade for most tent campers but limits solar charging options. According to one visitor, "There are quite a few hiking trails and none are too difficult. The main trail where the town used to be was awesome with several old structures left behind and informational plaques."


