Roosevelt State Park and Turkey Creek Water Park offer cabin rentals within driving distance of Carthage, Mississippi. The area spans a mix of forested landscapes with elevations ranging from 300-500 feet above sea level. Cabin availability varies seasonally, with highest demand during summer months when temperatures average 90°F and winter lows reaching 30°F during December-February.
What to do
Hiking trails: Roosevelt State Park Campground features multiple marked trails for various skill levels. "The trails are an addition to the park. We love to get out and walk the woods," explains one visitor. The trails are marked with paint on trees to prevent hikers from getting lost.
Water activities: Turkey Creek Water Park provides fishing and boating opportunities on its reservoir. "Fishing was good and sunsets amazing," notes a camper. The park also features a sandy beach area and options for renting boats directly on site.
Disc golf: Timberlake Campground includes a disc golf course that attracts enthusiasts. "RV sites, tent, monthly rentals. Disc golf course was a huge plus since I love disc golf," shares one visitor. The course is accessible to all skill levels and requires no additional fees beyond campground rates.
What campers like
Lake views: Many cabins at Roosevelt State Park offer direct lake access. "This campsite was not crowded at all and really peaceful. I stayed in site 13 which was right on the lake. The view was beautiful," reports one camper. Lakefront sites typically cost $28 per night compared to standard sites at $16.
Wildlife encounters: At Yogi on the Lake - Jellystone Pelahatchie, cabins positioned along the water provide natural wildlife viewing. "We stayed on the lakes edge, had visits from geese, ducks, rabbits and squirrels. Beautiful and very clean area," mentions a guest. Wildlife sightings are most common during early morning and evening hours.
Varied accommodation options: Movietown RV Park offers rental cabins with modern amenities. "For 30$ a night u get a level gravel drive thru spot electric, sewer, water, and wifi, laundry facilities and bath house very very clean," states a reviewer. Cabins range from basic to deluxe with kitchen facilities and private bathrooms.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Bienville National Forest Marathon Lake cabins operate on a limited schedule. The facility runs "March 1 to December 13" according to park information, closing during winter months. Reservations are recommended, especially during hunting seasons when demand increases.
Site conditions: Some cabins at Roosevelt State Park may need maintenance. "Been camping there for years. Some of the sites are pretty rough and in need of repair and they are working on them in stages," notes one visitor. Sites 14-17 are reported to be on flatter terrain than others.
Bathroom facilities: Quality of restroom facilities varies between parks. Some facilities maintain excellent standards while others may have maintenance issues. One reviewer at Timberlake Campground noted the convenience of "private showers" in the bathhouse, which was described as "very clean."
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Yogi on the Lake - Jellystone Pelahatchie offers extensive water recreation. "Pool, slides, jumping pad, playground, mini golf, tennis, basketball, planned activities each day for family fun," explains a camper. Water park hours run 10am-7pm during peak season with an additional fee at some locations.
Halloween events: Several campgrounds host special Halloween activities. "The trick or treating is the best. Start right when you can because there are so many sites offering candy or haunted areas. The spook trail is top tier!" shares an October visitor to Jellystone Pelahatchie.
Grocery access: Timberlake Campground provides convenient shopping options for families needing supplies. "If you need anything, there is a Kroger grocery store right across the street from the campground," notes a camper. This eliminates long drives for forgotten items during cabin stays.
Tips from RVers
Arrival procedures: Movietown RV Park offers simple check-in options. "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!" shares an RVer. This self-check system operates 24/7 for late arrivals.
Leveling challenges: Some cabin and RV sites require extra attention to leveling. "The rv gravel pads were extremely un-level," reports one camper about a site. Requesting sites 14-17 at Roosevelt State Park may provide more level options according to camper reviews.
Utility connections: Watch for multiple sewage hookups at some parks. "When we arrived no one told us of the possibility of two sewage hookups and which one should be used," warns a camper at Okatibbee Lake Waterpark. The central connection point under RVs is often the correct one to use rather than side connections.
