The camping areas near Crosby, Mississippi offer access to the Homochitto National Forest and nearby bodies of water. Located in southwest Mississippi at an elevation of about 200 feet, the region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, making it conducive to year-round camping. Seasonal patterns affect water levels in local streams and lakes, with higher water typically occurring from winter through early spring.
What to Do
Lake activities at Natchez State Park: The park includes a fishing pier and open water for kayaking or fishing. "Nice big fishing pier. Great fishing for big bass and catfish along the levy," notes one visitor to Natchez State Park Campground.
Trail exploration at Clear Springs: Hike along maintained paths ranging from lake loops to extended forest routes. A camper shares, "There is a loop hiking trail around the lake and a longer mountain bike/hiking trail" at Clear Springs Recreation Area, which has "excellent hiking/biking trails in 20+ miles winding through the area."
Mississippi River views: Walk along the riverfront pathways at Vidalia for panoramic views. "There is a nice paved trail on top of the levee," says a visitor to River View RV Park & Resort, adding that the "sites were pretty spacious and many have an unobstructed view of the river."
What Campers Like
Shade and privacy: Many campgrounds offer tree cover for temperature regulation. At Paradise Ranch RV Resort, campers appreciate that "the sites are large and shady" with "large beautiful shade trees" mentioned by reviewers at multiple locations.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and amenities enhance stays throughout the year. One camper noted that Clear Springs Lake Rec Area NF Campground has "two bathhouses with hot showers and flush toilets," while another mentioned, "Bathhouse has had a facelift."
Wildlife viewing: Some properties offer unique animal encounters. Paradise Ranch RV Resort features "free roaming red stag deer and potbelly pigs. You can feed them all right from your campsite," according to one visitor.
What You Should Know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly based on location and carrier. One camper at Clear Springs noted, "I have AT&T and had trouble getting a cell signal to make phone calls except when I was up by the bathhouse."
Seasonal crowds: Fall and winter holidays bring more campers to the region. A visitor to Hidden Springs RV Resort observed, "It was very quiet when we arrived, but as the Thanksgiving weekend approached more and more campers arrived with families, kids, dogs and bikes."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds involves unpaved or rough surfaces. One Natchez State Park visitor warned, "Currently, the main entrance to the park is under construction, so we were detoured about 7 miles around very bumpy backroads to an alternate entrance."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation options: Multiple locations feature swimming areas for children. Hidden Springs RV Resort includes "two pools both fed by on site natural springs" with the "Bogue Chitto river runs right alongside. Fishing, tubing, swimming. All easily accessible."
Playgrounds and activities: Some parks offer dedicated children's areas. A visitor to Natchez State Park mentioned there was a "nice playground by the lake," while Paradise Ranch RV Resort has "a large pool and instead of a cement deck it's surrounded by sand so you can put up your pop up tent and chairs and enjoy."
Camping pad considerations: Select level sites to ensure comfort with kids. At Plantation RV Park, "pads are concrete and easily accessible" according to the management, though experiences vary between campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RV size: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs comfortably. At Clear Springs, "the lower site is less accessible for longer campers" with another visitor noting the area is suitable for "smaller RVs and tents only."
Hookup availability: Most rv sites near Crosby, Mississippi offer water and electric, but not all include sewer. River View RV Park & Resort provides "almost 150 sites, with water, sewer and 30/50 amp electric," making it suitable for extended stays.
Weather preparation: The region experiences heavy rain seasons which can affect camping comfort. One visitor mentioned, "The staff weren't placing anyone in them due to storm & tornado warnings! Kept everyone close to the office & restrooms (aka storm shelter)."
