Grenada Lake camping offers an average of 240 days of sunshine annually with summer temperatures typically ranging from 85-95°F. The lake spans 64,600 acres at summer pool level with 148 miles of shoreline. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with winter drawdown typically beginning in November, affecting campground access and fishing conditions.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Grenada Lake ranks among Mississippi's top crappie fishing destinations. At Persimmon Hill(enid Lake), anglers appreciate the dedicated facilities. "The lake is a top fishing lake with no commercial or residential developments on the lake," notes Thomas W. Fish cleaning stations are located at campground entrances for convenience.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer walking paths with varying difficulty levels. At Jeff Busby Campground, you can access Little Mountain Trail. "Nice nature walk to a view, 1 mile each way," explains Jacqueline A. The trail includes some elevation changes and passes a natural spring.
Swimming beaches: Most campgrounds provide lake access for swimming during summer months. "The campsites are always clean, and it is always a wonderful experience camping here. Campsites close to the water, beautiful sunrises and fun for the whole family," reports Amanda F. about North Abutment. Beach availability varies with seasonal water levels.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance makes these campgrounds stand out. "This is the cleanest park we've seen," reports Gary P. about Persimmon Hill. Most campgrounds feature regularly cleaned bathhouses with reliable hot water. "Bathroom is directly in front with toilets and showers. Very clean and warm (low Christmas eve and Christmas 23)," notes Richard about site 58.
Spacious sites: North Abutment receives praise for its generous camping areas. "Large campground with a couple of different loops. The sites in the first loop are close together, but the other loops have spacious sites! Most sites are either water front or have a water view," explains Shana D. The layout allows both privacy and community.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations. "I've never seen more deer, especially close up, in my life!" states Shana D. about Persimmon Hill. Early mornings and evenings provide the best opportunities for wildlife observation from campsites.
What You Should Know
Seasonal fluctuations: Water levels change dramatically throughout the year. "With the winter let down no water right now," explains Richard about Christmas camping at Persimmon Hill. This affects waterfront sites and beach access particularly during winter months.
Reservation requirements: During peak periods (spring and fall weekends), sites fill quickly. "This was a great spot to stop and relax we stayed 3 nights and was very peaceful," notes Jeff about Jeff Busby Campground, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Weekdays typically offer better availability.
Site selection considerations: Not all sites are equally level or accessible. At Chickasaw Hill, "This place offers nice concrete pads with full hookups that are relatively level," according to Chip. However, some sites require careful selection for larger rigs.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play areas for children. "There is a playground and basketball court is centrally located and easily accessable to all families," explains Brandie D. about Persimmon Hill. The equipment is regularly maintained and offers activities for various age groups.
Beach options: Hugh White State Park Campground provides family-friendly swimming areas. "The sites are nice and grassy, and a lot of the sites have privacy bushes and things of that nature," notes Jenna L. The sandy beaches gradually slope into the water, making them suitable for younger children.
Activity variety: Multiple recreation options keep families engaged. "The day use area is nicer with a new pavilion, nice playground and a bare bones mini golf that would probably entertain very young children," describes Shana D. about George P. Cossar State Park. Many campgrounds also offer basketball courts and fishing piers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites near Grenada, Mississippi typically offer full amenities. "We stayed at Cossar pretty often, due to it being close to home. We have always stayed on the Yocona Ridge loop, and it has been a nice campground," shares Steve G. Recent improvements include sewer connections at many locations.
Big rig considerations: Larger motorhomes require careful site selection. At Persimmon Hill, campers appreciate the "level concrete sites with plenty of parking space for coach & toad," according to Gary P. Loop roads vary in width and turning radius across campgrounds.
Extended stays: Many campgrounds accommodate longer visits. "New to fulltime rv life we chose to spend a week at this quiet off the beaten path campground on our way west," explains Chip about Chickasaw Hill. Cell service is generally good with "strong enough to browse and stream with no issues" for Verizon customers.
