Best Campgrounds near Columbus, MS
Columbus, Mississippi and its surrounding area offer several established campgrounds catering to RV travelers, tent campers, and those seeking cabin accommodations. Dewayne Hayes Campground, located along the Tombigbee Waterway, provides waterfront camping with full hookup sites for RVs and spaces for tent camping. Lake Lowndes State Park Campground, situated approximately 15 miles east of Columbus, features lakeside campsites with electric and water hookups plus cabin rentals for those seeking more amenities. Town Creek Campground in nearby West Point provides another option with waterfront access and various site types.
Reservations are recommended for most developed campgrounds in the region, particularly during spring and fall when weather conditions are most favorable. Full-hookup RV sites are available at multiple locations, though availability can be limited during peak seasons. The campgrounds are generally accessible year-round, with paved roads leading to most established sites. Summer months bring high temperatures and humidity, while winter offers milder conditions. Cell phone coverage varies by location, with some parks like Lake Lowndes reporting limited service. "We stayed in Cottage 1 during our Thanksgiving vacation to visit family. The location was close to family in New Hope and the cottage was nice and cozy. The view of the lake was beautiful in the mornings," noted one visitor about Lake Lowndes State Park.
Water features prominently in camping experiences throughout the Columbus area, with many campgrounds situated along lakes or the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway. Campers report enjoying fishing, boating, and paddling opportunities at several locations. Many sites include amenities such as picnic tables, grills, and fire pits, though amenities vary by campground. Wildlife sightings add to the experience, as one camper at Dewayne Hayes noted: "Many sites on the river. Cool to watch the working barges going by. And lots of armadillos." Hiking trails are available at several parks, with Lake Lowndes offering a trail that loops around the water. Campers should be aware that some locations report issues with ants, particularly during warmer months, requiring appropriate precautions.
