Tent camping around Fulton, Mississippi centers primarily along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile scenic route connecting Nashville to Natchez. The region's climate features hot, humid summers with temperatures averaging 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Primitive camping dominates the area, with most sites requiring campers to be self-sufficient regarding water and waste management.
What to do
Canyon exploration tours: Dismals Canyon offers guided tours to view rare bioluminescent organisms. One visitor noted, "We were fortunate enough to enjoy a private tour on a Friday night and were treated to a mesmerizing display of glow worms, which call this canyon home."
Creek wading: Multiple waterways run through camping areas providing natural recreation. "We also had a creek flowing with crawdads, minnows, and bull frogs. Plenty of wildlife!!" wrote a camper at Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites.
Cycling camping: The Natchez Trace Parkway offers dedicated bicycle-only camping areas at Tupelo Bicycle Only Camp and Witch Dance, creating opportunities for long-distance cycling tours with overnight stops.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the secluded nature of sites in the area. A Dismals Canyon visitor stated, "Each campsite we have visited has been very private."
Natural water features: Many sites feature access to streams and small waterfalls. "The campsite is absolutely gorgeous! Very secluded and very roomy! The waterfall at the campsite is not large, but it still makes noise," noted one camper at Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites.
Natural night displays: Some locations offer unexpected natural light shows. "After we got everything set up and got all the lights out, we noticed the glowing dismalites along the Canyon wall behind our tent!! It was super cool," wrote one visitor.
What you should know
Fee structures vary significantly: Some campgrounds have complex pricing models. A camper at Dismals Canyon Cabins and Primitive Campsites reported, "Sites are anywhere from $27/night to $48/night. But then they also charge you a $5 cleaning fee (for a campsite????) and a 'one time admission fee' of $30 (good for up to 4 people, additional people = additional money)."
Limited level tent sites: Terrain challenges affect comfort. "The campsites are in rough shape. Totally eroded with no level spot for a tent," reported one camper.
Firewood regulations: Strict rules govern firewood use. "They DO NOT let you bring in firewood, but you can get firewood there," explained a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Access challenges: Family campers should prepare for hiking to sites. "It's about a quarter of a mile walk to the campsite," noted one visitor at Witch Dance Bicycle Only Camp.
Trail difficulty considerations: Some nearby trails accommodate various ability levels. One family camper shared, "The trail through the canyon is not terribly difficult. I hiked it with my 2 year old strapped to my back the last time we went, and my 62 year old mother and 5 year old in tow."
Wet conditions: Water crossings affect equipment needs. "Disclaimer: be prepared to get your feet wet!!" warned a camper when describing nearby hiking.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Fulton restricts vehicle access. Dismals Canyon features more developed options but with specific limitations. "These cabins feature a generously sized kitchen, a warm and inviting living room complete with a fireplace, and two comfortable bedrooms," noted a visitor to Chickasawhay.
Parking distance from sites: RV and car campers should prepare to transport gear. "You cannot park right next to your site, you will have to park in the parking area and walk to your site," explained a camper.
Gate access considerations: Security features may cause challenges. "The gate to get into the Canyon after hours for the bath house was difficult to operate. I'd pinch the code in and it wouldn't open. It would take several tries," shared a visitor.
