Trace State Park Campground near Guntown, Mississippi sits at the edge of the Appalachian foothills, where the terrain transitions to gentle slopes with an elevation around 400 feet. The area receives approximately 54 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forests and well-fed waterways that support diverse camping experiences. Water features prominently in the region's camping options, with several lakes offering waterfront sites where campers can park within 50 feet of shorelines.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Trace State Park offers excellent lake access for anglers. "Our site backed up to the lake and was beautiful! Lots of activities and has a marina. Fishing was great," notes maureen L. The park maintains multiple fishing piers and boat launches for easy water access.
Hiking trails: Davis Lake Campground features walking paths through wooded areas with varying terrain. A camper mentioned, "Pretty wooded area. This is a fairly developed area along this scenic drive, with swimming, rail-to-trail biking and hiking trail, wildlife viewing, etc." Trails range from 0.25 to 3 miles in length and connect to swimming areas.
Historical exploration: Pickwick Dam Campground provides proximity to significant historical sites. "It is also close to the Shiloh National Military Park which is the reason we are here," reports Kevin B. The battlefield is approximately 20 minutes from the campground and offers daily ranger-led tours during peak season.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Piney Grove offers direct water access at most sites. "We have stayed at this campgrounds numerous times and always enjoy it. The park host and attendents are great. Park is always clean. Paved sites with gravel pads around picnic tables," writes Branden H. Sites 43 and 44 are particularly noted for their water views.
Privacy and nature setting: Puskus Lake provides a more secluded glamping experience near Guntown. "Campsite was great. Beautiful lake and not crowded. Night time was quiet. Really enjoyed the views and relaxing environment," states Hunter H. The campground typically operates at under 50% capacity on weekdays.
Clean facilities: J.P. Coleman State Park Campground maintains high standards for bathhouses. "Clean campground, bathrooms were clean with plenty of warm water. They have vending machine, washer/dryer on site," reports amber. Bathrooms are cleaned twice daily during peak season and include laundry facilities.
What you should know
Road conditions: Trace State Park Campground has maintenance issues on some internal roads. "Trace state park is very nice and relaxing. From fishing, kayaking to camping. The roads in the park are terrible! That's the one downside to the park," notes Amanda F. The main campground loop has recently been resurfaced, but access roads still need repair.
Campsite leveling: Davis Lake sites require attention to leveling for RVs. "We took our 23 foot forest river TT on its maiden voyage here in mid June. It was easy to navigate even though it was dark. Nice level site. The sites away from the water looked to be uneven and on a slope so beware if you take an rv," advises Nate S.
Cell service: Wall Doxey State Park has limited connectivity. "Wifi-Tmobile worked fine whole trip. Not a lot of campers while I was here. Quiet and Peaceful," reports Christine S. Verizon users typically get 1-2 bars while AT&T service is spotty throughout the camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Wall Doxey State Park Campground offers family-friendly recreation. "Wall Doxey is a well maintained campground. The sites are far enough apart to not feel on top of your neighbor. The playground could use an update, but it does the job keeping the kids entertained," explains Brandon R. The playground area includes swings and climbing equipment suitable for children 4-12.
Seasonal activities: Piney Grove hosts family events during certain times. "We feel safe and at home everyone is always social and it just feels like home!!" shares Brandon C. The campground offers organized weekend activities from Memorial Day through Labor Day including movie nights and guided nature walks.
Wildlife viewing: Trace State Park provides opportunities to observe nature. "We're so happy that we drove 20 minutes off the interstate to get here! Such a wonderful place!" writes Liz R. Morning hours (6-8am) offer the best chance to spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species along the lakeshore.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Cross City RV Park offers practical full-hookup options. "This is a no frills campground but it's great as a 1-nighter coming to or from the gulf coast. Sites are perfectly level, utilities all work great. Most sites are pull through and long enough to park without unhooking, even with longer rigs," advises Chip K. The park accommodates RVs up to 40 feet with 50-amp service.
Pad dimensions: Tishomingo State Park has site constraints for larger vehicles. "Super easy access from the Natchez Trace Parkway. All sites are level concrete but narrow. No room for error on either side," notes Wendy T. RVers should verify site dimensions when booking as many pads are under 12 feet wide.
Hookup placement: Pickwick Dam Campground has well-designed utility connections. "Nice level site. View of the TN River. 50, 30 and 20 amp service. Water but no sewer. Nice clean bathhouse," reports James L. Electric and water connections are placed mid-pad for convenient access from most RV configurations.
