Delta National Forest spans over 60,000 acres of bottomland hardwood forest in the Mississippi Delta region with elevations ranging between 80-100 feet above sea level. The forest contains the only bottomland hardwood national forest in the United States and sits on alluvial soil deposited by Mississippi River flooding. Seasonal flooding can restrict access to various campgrounds, especially after winter and spring rains when water levels rise significantly.
What to do
Kayaking and small boat excursions: Access the bayou directly from Barge Lake Campground, which provides a small boat launch into the connected waterway. "The small bayou is great for putting in your kayak. There are beautiful cypress trees on land and in the bayou along with many cypress knobs," notes one visitor.
Fishing for native species: The numerous lakes throughout the forest offer fishing opportunities year-round. At Blue Lake, visitors can use the gravel boat ramp to access prime fishing spots. The campground has "three campsites - 79A, 79B & 79C" with site 79A being closest to the lake for convenient fishing access.
Wildlife photography: The wetland ecosystem supports diverse wildlife including migratory birds and reptiles. A camper at Blue Lake reported, "Saw an alligator lounging around in the lake. Beautiful nature sounds." Early morning and dusk provide optimal lighting for capturing wildlife in their natural habitat.
What campers like
Remote, undeveloped setting: The isolation and lack of modern amenities appeals to those seeking genuine wilderness experiences. At Fish Lake Campground, "The area was bush hogged so grass was very low. If you love to boondock this is the spot."
Distinctive cypress landscapes: The ancient cypress trees and knees create a unique visual environment. Campers frequently photograph these distinctive formations, with one noting that at Barge Lake there are "beautiful cypress trees on land and in the bayou along with many cypress knobs."
Affordability: With sites at Delta National Forest Site 45/45A costing just $7 per night, budget-conscious campers appreciate the value. "If you want both sites double the fee," mentions one camper who enjoyed having extra space.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All Delta National Forest campgrounds require advance reservations through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. One camper emphasized this at Blue Lake: "There is no pay station, and the forest office in Rolling Fork is closed; so, you have to make a reservation online at recreation.gov to pay. Online reservation fee is $8."
Road conditions: Access roads can become impassable after rain. At Blue Lake, a visitor noted: "This is a low elevation, swampy wetland which does get flooded. Two wheel drive passenger cars should make it okay when the road is mostly dry."
Facility maintenance concerns: Some campgrounds receive inconsistent maintenance. At Little Sunflower River, a recent visitor reported: "Don't think anyone has cleaned the pit toilet or the bear proof garbage cans for awhile only two camp sites that I can make out and only one with a camp site number."
Tips for camping with families
Bring complete supplies: With limited nearby services, preparation is essential. A camper at Fish Lake recommended: "If you need power bring your generator and I would bring all the supplies needed so you don't have to drive out."
Insect protection strategies: Multiple forms of mosquito protection are necessary, especially during warmer months. At Blue Lake, a camper advised: "Insects were not too bad; we used a Thermocell insect repellent device which seemed to work."
Consider alternative accommodations: For families seeking more amenities, Askew's Landing RV Campground offers additional facilities not far from the forest. A visitor noted it has "40 acres of beautiful landscape, the same 15 acre lake, close to 100 sites, and room for close to 50 primitive tent sites."
Tips from RVers
Solar limitations: The dense tree canopy affects solar panel effectiveness. A Fish Lake camper warned: "No sun so solar will not work. If you need power bring your generator."
Site selection considerations: Look for sites with adequate clearance for your vehicle size. Sites at Delta National Forest Site 45/45A are described as "very small" but "equipped with picnic table, fire ring and lantern pole."
Connectivity challenges: Cell service is limited or non-existent throughout the forest. A Blue Lake visitor reported: "No AT&T nor T-Mobile cell service." Plan accordingly with offline maps and emergency communication alternatives.
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