Big Foot Horse Trail and Camp serves equestrian campers within De Soto National Forest's longleaf pine ecosystem. The primitive camping area accommodates both tent and vehicle camping with designated sites for horses and riders. The forest contains over 518,000 acres across southern Mississippi with terrain characterized by sandy soil and pine forests intersected by clear streams and cypress swamps.
What to do
Trail riding access: The equestrian trails connect directly to camping areas, allowing riders convenient access to the forest path system. At Creekside Farm Co., located near the forest, visitors find "country, beginning of a bayou (like a creek), pups, chickens, ducks, outdoor shower and loo (both with privacy), and each tent site has fire pit/picnic table, cleared ground for setup."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple creeks and waterways throughout the forest provide fishing access. The nearby Flint Creek Waterpark offers additional water recreation with "plenty of beach to fish or hangout. This site would be perfect during the summer if you wanted to swim."
Wildlife observation: Forest areas support diverse wildlife including deer and coyote populations. A camper at Flint Creek noted they "encountered coyote, deer, and lots of talkative geese, so be prepared for some wildlife interaction."
What campers like
Natural setting: The pine forest creates shaded camping areas with natural privacy between sites. According to a visitor to Big Foot Horse Trail and Camp, "Campgrounds are beautiful with line forests surrounding the sites. Utilities are primitive but expected for a free campground."
Reasonable pricing: Most equestrian camping areas offer affordable rates compared to developed campgrounds. One camper noted about a nearby primitive campsite: "My boyfriend and I car camp and try to stay in primitive areas for the lesser (or no) fees. This site was $15 for primitive camping but included a water spigot as well as port-o-potties."
Multiple camping options: The area offers various camping styles from primitive to full-hookup sites. At Clearwater RV Park near De Soto National Forest, a visitor appreciated that "they had a great time especially loved the fire ring we had on our lot which was great to have during the cold weather. Most of the other campgrounds I've been to haven't had any kind of fire rings."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Equestrian camping areas typically provide minimal amenities. A visitor to Big Foot noted, "Watch where you step! Lots of horse poop." Bring adequate supplies as services are limited.
Water requirements: No potable water is available directly at the equestrian camping sites. Plan to bring sufficient water for both people and horses.
Weather considerations: The forest experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. At Forest County Multi-Purpose Events Center, which serves as an alternative camping option nearby, a camper mentioned it has "concrete pads, full hookups, excellent satellite reception throughout the park."
Tips for camping with families
Insects and wildlife preparations: The forest environment requires proper protection from insects. One visitor recommended, "Bring bug spray. The beaches are nice for campers."
Educational opportunities: Observe forest management practices including controlled burns and longleaf pine restoration. A visitor to Creekside Farm noted educational aspects: "We had an amazing time at Creekside! I stayed here with three friends over the weekend and it was the perfect getaway."
Safety precautions: Establish clear boundaries for children in camp areas with horses present. At nearby campsites, a visitor observed, "We had our two daughters with us which they loved going on a walk around the park and looking at the ducks. Just about everyone is friendly there."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many forest camping areas have natural, uneven terrain. A camper at Flint Creek mentioned, "The only issue I had with the spots were they were all uneven, but somehow I was able to level my 37' travel trailer on the first try without any leveling aids."
Seasonal planning: Consider visiting during fall or spring for moderate temperatures. October brings special activities as noted by one camper: "We stayed a week in October & enjoyed it. A lot of the sites were decorating for Halloween."
Supply preparation: Stock all necessary supplies before arrival. A visitor to Forest County Multi-Purpose mentioned it's "great for overnighting. We've stayed here for an overnight several years in a row on our way to Gulf Shores from Central AR."
