Enid Lake encompasses 28,000 acres in north-central Mississippi with a maximum depth of 65 feet. The area averages 53 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush surroundings for campers seeking nature immersion. Most campgrounds near Enid Lake operate year-round but receive heaviest traffic during spring fishing tournaments and summer vacation periods when temperatures can reach mid-90s with high humidity.
What to do
Fishing for multiple species: Wallace Creek provides access to Enid Lake's diverse fishing opportunities throughout the year. According to Bran P., "Enid Lake has an earthen dam and was built for flood control. We enjoyed the nearby North Mississippi Fish Hatchery and Visitors Center." The fish hatchery offers educational tours where visitors can learn about local aquatic ecosystems.
Visit educational attractions: The North Mississippi Fish Hatchery near Enid Dam charges a small entrance fee and provides interactive exhibits about local fish species. As Nancy W. notes, "The North Mississippi Fish Hatchery is a fun place to visit and tour for very small fee." The facility operates Tuesday through Saturday from 8am to 4pm.
Disc golf course access: George P. Cossar State Park offers a free disc golf course for visitors. A camper mentioned, "There is a Frisbee golf course that has gotten better over time. The course is now marked very well." The course winds through wooded areas and provides entertainment even for beginners.
Mini-golf with the family: For $4 per person plus tax, campers can enjoy mini-golf at Cossar State Park. According to Suzi T., "Yokona ridge has a great playground for kids with the putt-putt golf course a short walk away. 4$+tax per person to play." The course operates during daylight hours only.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Wallace Creek offers generously-sized sites with ample privacy. Michael Austin S. reports, "The campground is large and well-kept, with over 100 sites, and the sites are very spacious. Each has a table, water and electric hookups, a hook, and a tent pad." Many sites feature concrete pads that stay level even after heavy rains.
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking solitude, weekdays provide optimal camping experiences around Enid Lake. Neil H. notes about Wallace Creek, "Spacious sites with enough room between them to not feel crowded. Multiple bathhouses spread around the campground that were very clean." Monday through Thursday typically sees occupancy below 30%.
Natural setting: Puskus Lake offers a more rustic camping experience with forested sites near water. Hunter H. shares, "Campsite was great. Beautiful lake and not crowded. Night time was quiet. Really enjoyed the views and relaxing environment." The campground sits within Holly Springs National Forest with minimal light pollution for excellent stargazing.
Lakefront views: Many campsites provide direct views of the water. Jan M. recommends Wallace Creek: "My favorite site is #72... feels private and is a concrete pull through site. Lakeside view and nice area for picnic." Waterfront sites typically cost the same as standard sites but reserve faster.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Site quality can differ dramatically across campgrounds. At John W. Kyle State Park, a visitor noted, "Roads had poor drainage and large puddles. Sites are paved and fairly level. You may need a long potable water hose, 50+ feet." Always bring leveling blocks and extra water hose length.
Facility maintenance issues: State-managed campgrounds sometimes face maintenance challenges. Steve G. reports about Kyle State Park: "This is our close by getaway. Usually pretty solid, not great, but not bad. This time, we'll, it was pretty ugly around here. Looks like it has been weeks since the grass was cut." Corps of Engineers campgrounds typically have better maintenance.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (April through October), advance reservations are strongly recommended. Narendra B. found Wallace Creek to be "Very pleasant environment, easy access to water body, clean restrooms and showers, electricity and water tap for every site." Most campgrounds accept reservations 6 months in advance.
Water level fluctuations: Enid Lake is big with fluctuating water levels that affect shoreline accessibility. Blair M. observed at Cossar State Park, "We wanted to play disc golf but the lake was too high and covered some of them!" Water levels tend to be highest in spring and early summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Chewalla Lake Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities including a playground. Shana D. reports, "There is a paved trail that passes by a picnic pavilion and playground. The path leads you to a partially covered bridge that crosses over to an island with a picnic table." The playground equipment is accessible year-round.
Bug preparation: Mississippi's humid climate means insects are prevalent, particularly at dusk. Kaitlyn C. warns about Chewalla Lake, "Swarms of bugs were already attacking my car before I could even stop." Bring long sleeves, pants, and plenty of bug spray, especially during summer months.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Several easily accessible fishing piers allow children to fish safely. As one visitor noted about Wallace Creek, "The lake is very popular for fishing and there is a boat launch/fish cleaning station." Most piers are wheelchair accessible with gentle slopes.
Water safety considerations: Swimming areas have variable conditions throughout the year. A camper at Cossar State Park mentioned, "We tent camped for the weekend at George Payne Cossar State Park in March. It was still a bit cold and the pollen had come out - looked like snow falling in my headlamp." Always check with rangers about current swimming conditions.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Hernando Point offers complete services for RVers looking for glamping close to Enid Lake. Jason G. notes, "The sites were easy to get into and the campground was quiet and the setting is really beautiful." Most sites include water, electric, and sewer connections.
Site leveling challenges: Some glamping sites near Enid Lake require extra preparation. William F. observed at Kyle State Park, "While many sites have full service, this campground is badly in need of repairs and maintenance." Bring leveling blocks and site survey before fully setting up.
Water access considerations: When selecting an upscale lakeside glamping site, consider water access points. Christina H. shares about Kyle State Park, "We've stayed here three times and always in the same area away from the lake. Very quiet, friendly neighbors and pretty well maintained." Sites closest to boat ramps can experience higher traffic.
Seasonal differences: Weather impacts glamping experiences significantly throughout the year. Sandra V. notes about Cossar State Park, "Lakeside sites would allow for boat pull-up within view. MS really needs to fund their state parks better so they can get the maintenance needed." Fall and spring typically offer the most comfortable temperatures for luxury outdoor stays.
