Best Campgrounds near Columbus, MS

Camping near Columbus, Mississippi, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and friendly campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Whitten Park Campground, have great fishing spots. One camper mentioned, “Fishing off the fishing docks was great!” This is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
• Hiking: Trails are available at places like Trace State Park Campground. A visitor noted, “Nice hiking trails” which makes it a great spot for nature lovers.
• Kayaking: If you enjoy being on the water, Lake Lowndes State Park Campground is ideal. One reviewer shared, “We enjoyed a nice game of disc golf,” highlighting the fun activities available.

What campers like:

• Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment at places like Burchfield Branch Park. One visitor said, “This is a quiet campground with well spaced sites,” making it perfect for those looking to unwind.
• Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds, such as Pickensville Campground, have helpful staff. A camper mentioned, “The guy at the front gate was super nice and helpful,” which adds to the overall experience.
• Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A reviewer at Tombigbee State Park Campground noted, “The bathrooms were clean and well stocked,” which is always appreciated.

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Lake Lowndes State Park Campground, have poor cell reception. One camper warned, “There was no cell phone signal for Verizon once you entered the park,” so plan accordingly.
• Site Privacy: Some campgrounds, such as Trace State Park Campground, have sites that are close together. A visitor mentioned, “The sites on the loop seemed to afford no privacy,” so if you prefer more space, check the layout before booking.
• Seasonal Crowds: Popular spots can get busy during holidays. A camper at Deerlick Creek noted, “It was noisy at night with some folks partying,” so be prepared for potential noise during peak times.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Whitten Park Campground, which is described as “very friendly family quiet campgrounds.” This makes it a great choice for families with kids.
• Plan Activities: Bring bikes and kayaks for fun family outings. One reviewer at Pickensville Campground suggested, “Take your bikes and kayaks!” to enjoy the calm waters.
• Check for Amenities: Make sure the campground has facilities like playgrounds or swimming areas. A camper at Lake Lowndes State Park Campground mentioned, “Nice trails too!” which can keep kids entertained.

Tips from RVers:

• Look for Big Rig Friendly Sites: Campgrounds like Burchfield Branch Park are big rig friendly, making it easier for larger RVs to navigate. A visitor noted, “Big rig friendly,” which is a must for RV travelers.
• Check Hookup Availability: Ensure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Davis Lake Campground mentioned, “Some sites are reservable and others are first come,” so plan ahead.
• Be Prepared for Weather: Some areas can experience flooding or heavy rain. A camper at Lake Lowndes State Park Campground shared, “A barge flooded the area,” so keep an eye on weather conditions before your trip.

Camping in Columbus, MS, offers a variety of experiences, from peaceful retreats to family-friendly adventures. With the right preparation, you can enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer!