Turkey Creek Water Park and Twiltley Branch offer primitive and premium glamping near Forest, Mississippi. Located in east central Mississippi, these campgrounds sit about 20-30 miles from Forest in Scott and Lauderdale counties, where temperatures typically range from 70-98°F during summer camping season. Both destinations maintain lakefront locations with varying terrain from wooded sites to open waterfront camping areas.
What to do
Boat rentals at Turkey Creek: Turkey Creek features boat rentals on-site for visitors without their own watercraft. "Enjoy fishing and especially water skiing with your own boat or a boat rented on site. There is mountain biking and hiking (all easy trails), a sandy beach, and just a nice relaxing atmosphere," notes Lynn G. about Turkey Creek Water Park.
Wildlife viewing at LeFleur's Bluff: Situated in Jackson, LeFleur's Bluff State Park offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "We sat outside even in the 98+ heat to see the activity on the lake. This campground is right off of the interstate but feels like you are in the country," shares Nick W. about LeFleur's Bluff State Park Campground.
Trail exploration: "The trails were Peaceful and I loved all the nature you see everywhere. Had my morning coffee and watched a 7ft gator swimming and paying us no mind," reports Kemberley P. about her experience at LeFleur's Bluff. The park offers accessible nature trails that connect to the Mississippi Museum of Natural History.
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: Twiltley Branch provides excellent bank and dock fishing access. "Many sites have great water views and access in case you want to launch a kayak or canoe. A short drive away is Collinsville Park with has a boat launch providing access to Okatibbee Lake," explains Nancy W. about Twiltley Branch.
Privacy at Turkey Creek: Recent campsite improvements have enhanced the camping experience. "Small campground on a lake. Pretty and quiet. Recent work on campsites to create level sites. Enjoy camping there," comments Nelwyn B. about Turkey Creek Water Park.
Spacious sites: At Timberlake Campground, visitors appreciate the generous camping areas. "I was very impressed with the amenities such as the laundry room, pool and bath house. The bath house was very clean and has private showers. It is located right on the Ross Barnett Reservoir so it is a beautiful area," reports Brad G. about Timberlake Campground.
What you should know
Off-season considerations: Fall camping offers less crowded experiences. "Since we were there in the fall, the park was not even a quarter full so it was very quiet and peaceful," mentions Nancy W. about Twiltley Branch.
Gate access protocols: Some parks require gate codes after hours. "Remember to check your email for your gate access code the gentleman ahead of us did not and it took awhile to get in after a long day of driving," warns Nick W. about LeFleur's Bluff.
Seasonal facilities: "The water park is heated which I didn't know and wished we brought swim suits," shares Melissa G. about Yogi on the Lake - Jellystone Pelahatchie. Be aware that some water features remain operational into fall months.
Campsite selection: At Twiltley Branch, "There are a few pull-thrus but they have a really weird curvature and trees that would make it hard for some large RVs to navigate," cautions Nancy W.
Tips for camping with families
Disc golf access: Timberlake Campground offers recreational alternatives. "Disc golf course was a huge plus since I love disc golf. It would be great for a family looking to camp but almost have to comfort of hotel like settings!" explains Daniel S.
Fall festivities: Yogi on the Lake offers special seasonal events for families. "The trick or treating is the best. Start right when you can because there are so many sites offering candy or haunted areas. The spook trail is top tier! And there were plenty of activities throughout the day for the kids," recommends Melissa G.
Day trips: "We stayed here when the sites in the nearby National Forest were full and enjoyed it so much we added a day to our trip," reports Lynn G. about Big Creek Water Park, demonstrating how these campgrounds serve as good basecamps for exploring.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling concerns: At Yogi on the Lake, "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," cautions Ashley S.
Utility hookups: "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!" explains Lynn G. about Turkey Creek, highlighting the importance of understanding amenity descriptions.
Convenience access: For overnight travelers, Movietown RV Park provides easy-access options. "We got in late so we registered at the closed office door by putting our $27 payment in an envelope in the door slot. How convenient! Close to Hwy 55, clean and quiet," shares John N.
