Turkey Creek Water Park offers equestrian facilities with a dedicated area for riders seeking overnight accommodations with their horses. Located near Decatur, Mississippi, the park sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with rolling terrain suitable for beginner-level trail riding. The park maintains separate camping zones where horse owners can access specialized amenities while enjoying the surrounding woodlands and reservoir views.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Turkey Creek Water Park features easy-difficulty trails around the reservoir that accommodate horses and riders of all experience levels. According to Kesha, "Small area for camping but new area for bringing horses to camp and trail ride. Clean with nice bunk houses. Fishing was good and sunsets amazing."
Fishing access: Turkey Creek Water Park offers excellent fishing opportunities in the reservoir. Brad O. notes simply but effectively: "Lilly pads and bass," highlighting the productive fishing environment visitors can expect.
Waterfall exploration: Just a short drive from Decatur, Dunns Falls Water Park provides a scenic natural attraction. Gregory H. shares: "The historical structures are neat, as is the waterfall. The whole park can be explored in less than an hour, so I can't imagine staying multiple nights."
What campers like
Privacy and atmosphere: Campers appreciate the secluded feeling at Turkey Creek. Cindy S. calls it a "Hidden Gem" and describes it as a "Quite and peaceful small campground with bathroom, hot showers and laundry available. Nice campsite with lake view. Staff is friendly."
Improved facilities: Recent upgrades have enhanced the camping experience. According to Nelwyn B., it's a "Small campground on a lake. Pretty and quiet. Recent work on campsites to create level sites. Enjoy camping there."
Accessibility: Yogi on the Lake offers good year-round access for families seeking horse-friendly accommodations near Decatur. Regina J. shared a brief but enthusiastic review: "Wonderful stay!!"
What you should know
Not a water amusement park: Despite the name, Turkey Creek Water Park refers to natural water recreation, not slides or rides. Lynn G. clarifies: "By 'water park' they mean 'park with recreation activities on the water' not a man made park with slides and rides. This was devastating news for our friend's young daughter!"
Uncrowded camping options: Bienville National Forest Shockaloe Base Camp 1 provides a more primitive camping alternative near Decatur for those seeking solitude on horseback trips. The forest service maintains basic toilet facilities and trash collection, but no hookups are available.
Gate closure times: Some parks in the area have strict entrance policies. At Dunns Falls, Gregory H. notes: "Gate to park locks at 5pm (key provided at check in) which is nice for security. Clean area. Close to a highway but few cars traveling at night."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: When visiting equestrian campgrounds near Decatur with children, plan for water activities during summer months. Tony H. recommends Turkey Creek: "This is one of the best campgrounds around hands down plenty of space not crowded and the people that work there are super friendly and helpful. We go there all the time."
Rental availability: Dunn's Falls Water Park requires families to bring their own recreation equipment as rentals aren't available. Christopher T. notes: "Lots of stairs to descend/ascend to get to the bottom of the falls. Nice historical building."
Weather considerations: Avoid visiting water features after heavy rainfall when bringing horses or children. Sippi's S. advises: "We went at a bad time after the rain is not the ideal time the water was really high and the current was rapid."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers visiting horse campgrounds near Decatur should bring leveling blocks. Ashley S. from Yogi on the Lake reports: "Our site was a very tight pull thru site. We definitely wouldn't of been able to pull out if the park was full. The site was very sloped so getting in the camper was difficult because the steps were so high off the ground."
Monthly rates: For extended horse camping stays, inquire about special pricing. Claire M. notes about Yogi on the Lake: "Fun campground for the kiddos. Loved all of the activities and amenities available... Very good monthly rate."
Off-season availability: Turkey Creek remains open year-round for equestrian campers, though amenities may be limited in winter. The park maintains consistent water and electric hookups regardless of season, making it reliable for RVers traveling with horses.
