Campgrounds near Ocean Springs, Mississippi offer diverse outdoor accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and yurt camping options. The region sits at low elevation with a humid subtropical climate featuring mild winters and hot, humid summers with average temperatures ranging from 45°F in January to 90°F in July. Annual rainfall exceeds 65 inches, making waterproof gear essential for camping trips throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for anglers. At Flint Creek Waterpark, campers can fish from their sites or nearby beaches. "We stayed during the second weekend of Dec. weather was brisk with a small amount of rain on Saturday. Had a beautiful view of the water where you could fish," notes a visitor who appreciated the waterfront location.
Nature trails exploration: Many campgrounds feature walking paths through native forests. McLeod Park Campground offers a riverside trail leading to scenic spots. "We walked the nature trail and enjoyed the river views from our campsite," shares one camper who visited in October. The trail requires careful footing due to roots and uneven terrain.
Water recreation activities: Swimming, canoeing and water sports are popular at local campgrounds. Sugar Sands Campground provides waterfront areas for various activities. "Clean and nature at his best, peace full family oriented. Waterfront with swimming and canoeing! Concession area and multiple clean showers and bathrooms, open all year!" explains a recent visitor.
What campers like
Concrete pads at established sites: Many campers appreciate the level concrete pads at select campgrounds. At McLeod Park Campground, "Nearly every site has a level concrete pad and many have full hookups. Lots of trees," reports a satisfied visitor. These pads help with easier setup and stay cleaner during wet weather.
Shaded camping areas: The natural tree cover provides relief from summer heat. Sugar Sands Campground features wooded sites that maintain cooler temperatures. "Verry clean and peaceful campground on the river and family friendly," notes a camper who enjoyed the natural setting. The 72-acre property offers plenty of shade throughout.
Security features: Some campgrounds provide enhanced security measures. At Mobile Oaks RV Resort, "Pretty quiet park with security gates and cameras. Alot of nice size trees with a 14 acre lake and swimming pool. They sell propane on site also," explains a monthly visitor. The gated access requires an entry code after hours.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Many waterfront campgrounds experience significant crowding during summer months. Regarding McLeod Park, one visitor noted, "Beautiful campground, boat launch and water access are nice, but the most crowded park we have been to! You're VERY close to your neighbors and there is little room for parking."
Insect presence: The Gulf Coast climate supports active insect populations, especially during warmer months. Some campgrounds report more issues than others. One McLeod Park camper warned, "The roaches THE ROACHES WERE HORRIBLE. Especially at night as soon as you'd open up the door they were flying EVERYWHERE, we camped in August."
Yurt camping Ocean Springs, Mississippi options: For those seeking glamping accommodations, Gulfport KOA Holliday offers alternative structures beyond traditional tent sites. "The staff was very nice. The campground was very nice. It is only 4 months old. All the amenities you need and expect from a KOA. The only difference is that's new and not run down," reports a recent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad amenities: Several parks offer water play areas for children. McLeod Park provides a dedicated splash pad alongside traditional playground equipment. "We enjoyed our mid October stay. Great playground and splash pad for the children," shares a visitor, noting these features remained operational into the fall season.
Halloween camping events: Fall brings special activities to many campgrounds. At Flint Creek Waterpark, seasonal celebrations create memorable experiences: "We stayed here during Halloween and it was pretty crowded. We prefer more secluded camping sites, and this campground provides plenty of space despite being so packed. There were several RV campgrounds that had decorations and trick-or-treating."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Local campgrounds host diverse animal species. Keesler AFB FamCamp offers convenient wildlife viewing: "This campground is located outside the gates and next door to a beautiful park that has fishing, disc golf, and a splash pad playground for the kids." Visitors might spot native birds and small mammals during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling RVs. At Flint Creek Waterpark, "The only thing negative about the site was that it was not level. I had to add an extra step to get in and out of my travel trailer," reports an RVer who stayed at site 29. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended.
Staff assistance at check-in: Several parks offer personalized help during arrival. At All About Relaxing RV Park, "Arriving in the dark and rain, we were met at the gate and escorted in. He guided me back into the spot and got us settled in. The park is quite and the staff is super," explains a grateful RVer. This service proves especially valuable for first-time RVers or during difficult conditions.
Off-base military camping: Military families can access dedicated facilities without staying on base. Keesler AFB FamCamp provides this convenience: "This campground is located outside the gates and next door to a beautiful park that has fishing, disc golf, and a splash pad playground for the kids." Active duty and retired military personnel can make reservations with proper ID verification.