Trace State Park Campground offers a variety of options for campers near Saltillo, Mississippi, with sites ranging from tent camping to RV hookups. Located about 10 miles southeast of Saltillo, this park centers around a 565-acre reservoir with good fishing and boating access. The campground features both lakefront and wooded sites, and most have electric and water connections. Several campers note the aging infrastructure as a challenge, with roads in need of repair but praise the park's natural setting and direct lake access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Trace State Park Campground, anglers can enjoy lakeside access with multiple fishing spots. "Great for fishing, kayaking to camping. The roads in the park are terrible! That's the one downside to the park," notes reviewer Amanda F. The lake is known for bass fishing, with several reviewers mentioning good catches.
Hiking trails: The trail system at Tishomingo State Park Campground offers routes for all skill levels through unique rock formations and along Bear Creek. "Love the trails. The Bear Creek is peaceful to sit beside. Hoping to kayak here this summer," shares Bruce F. The park includes a notable swinging bridge that crosses the creek.
Wildlife viewing: Puskus Lake provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. "We see a variety of waterfowl and a few bass fishing boats. It is a working waterway and we observe barges each day," writes Cyndi H. about her experience at Piney Grove. Early mornings and evenings typically offer the best wildlife viewing conditions.
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Many campers specifically seek out the waterfront sites at Davis Lake Campground, which provide direct lake access. "Davis Lake Recreation Area is situated just 4 miles from the Natchez Trace Parkway. The campground is adjacent to the Eastern shore of the 200 acre Davis Lake. 14 sites are right on the lake front offering spectacular sun rises and evening sun sets," according to reviewer Stephen & Theresa B.
Peaceful environment: The quiet atmosphere at Piney Grove draws campers seeking tranquility. "Great pad sites for RV Trailer, very private well laid out the restrooms are very clean. Reasonable cost and if you have an America the Beautiful card site is 50% off," notes Michael C. Many reviewers mention the secluded nature and relative quiet of the campground.
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Saltillo, Mississippi, Chewalla Lake Recreation Area offers waterfront yurt accommodations with basic amenities. "The shaded footpaths make walking the trails on a hot day still enjoyable. Quiet, low humidity, and plenty of camp sites to choose from make this location a great place to unplug and relax," explains Josh G. The yurts provide a middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate year-round, but services may be limited during winter months. "Piney Grove Campground was full of beautiful waterfront campsites. It was a delight to be able to put in my kayaks right at my campsite and not have to drive to a boat ramp," shares Katie S. However, Piney Grove is only open from March 1 through November 15.
Road conditions: Several reviewers note poor road conditions within some parks. "The only issue was the poor road maintenance in getting to our campsite. Other than that, we enjoyed our stay tremendously and will definitely recommend to friends and family," reports Sue S. about Trace State Park. Budget extra time for navigating within some campgrounds.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. At J.P. Coleman State Park Campground, one reviewer noted, "No WiFi, 1 bar Verizon." Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service, so plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wall Doxey State Park Campground provides playground facilities for children, though some reviewers suggest improvements are needed. "The playground could use an update, but it does the job keeping the kids entertained. The highlight for us is the disc golf course the winds through the pine forest," explains Brandon R.
Swimming areas: Not all lakes permit swimming, so verify before promising kids a swim. "While you can boat or fish on the lake, you cannot swim in the lake so keep that in mind if you are going somewhere where you want to cool off," advises Kim N. about Puskus Lake. Davis Lake does offer a swimming beach that's popular with families.
Bug preparation: Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in wooded areas and during summer months. "Hardly any other people around. Very run down and lots of bugs. Stopped over here for a quick camp spot on a road trip, and it was fine for this," notes Ben H. about Puskus Campground. Bring appropriate repellent and check children regularly for ticks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "Twisty, steep and narrow roadway into campsite...not for novice rig drivers. Due to short campsites, tow vehicles had to be creative with parking, sometimes blocking most of the campground road," reports one reviewer about J.P. Coleman State Park. Research specific site dimensions before booking.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at most area campgrounds. "Site 45 not level," notes a J.P. Coleman reviewer, while another mentioned at Cross City RV Park: "The sites are perfectly level, utilities all work great. Most sites are pull through and long enough to park without unhooking, even with longer rigs."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in the region. "No full hookups but all the sites have electricity and water. Plenty of trees and amazing views from all the site. Cellphone coverage is not good here for Verizon or AT&T. Better at front of camp," explains Thomas H. about yurt camping at Tishomingo State Park, where traditional campsites are also available.
