The primitive camping areas around Hernando, Mississippi sit within the North Mississippi hill country at elevations ranging from 330 to 450 feet. The region contains multiple Army Corps of Engineers-managed lakes created for flood control along the Coldwater River basin. Tent camping spots typically feature flat terrain with limited development, operating year-round despite occasional closures during winter flooding periods.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Puskus Lake, the wide docks offer bench seating for comfortable bank fishing. "The docks nice, wide with bench seating," notes Alex B., who adds that the campground has a "Concrete boat launch" for those bringing watercraft.
Boating options: Beach Point at Sardis Lake provides boat launch facilities alongside tent camping. McKinley L. reports, "The view and proximity to the water is truly what makes this spot. All sites are tent sites so you have to be parked in the parking lot."
Hiking trails: Several small trails exist within Holly Springs National Forest. Kim N. mentions that Puskus Lake has "2 trails you can walk on around the campsite but they only equal about 5 miles and are not maintained very well in some areas although they are flat and easy to explore."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many campsites near Hernando see minimal visitors, especially during weekdays. At Hays Crossing, Steve G. notes, "It is a free campground so really, one can't complain. The view is great. You can see out across the lake. There is plenty of space to hike and explore."
Lake views: Several campsites provide direct water access and views. At Beach Point, Elizabeth S. describes, "We reserved campsites 13 and 14, at the far end, behind the restrooms. You have to park in the parking lot and carry your stuff to the site. But it's a tent-only campground and there were only a couple other tents there so it was quiet and peaceful."
Low cost: Most primitive tent camping near Hernando remains affordable. At Graham Lake, Steve G. mentions, "No hookups. Nothing. But, it is a free campground so what can you say. It's rather nice there. This is a very small campground with about 5 spots."
What you should know
Bathroom limitations: Facilities vary widely across campgrounds with some being minimally maintained. Caitlyn E. reports about Beach Point, "Running water, flushable toilets, no showers. Quiet area."
Seasonal insect issues: Biting flies can be problematic during summer months. Elizabeth S. warns, "The flies!! They were so so bad! And bighty!! My poor dogs were covered in flies, as were we."
Road conditions: Some campground access routes have deteriorated. At Hays Crossing, Steve G. mentions, "The roads in are horrible. There are people riding off road vehicles in the lake bottoms quite often."
Camping rules: At Cox Lake, primitive camping is allowed but has minimal oversight. Kelly C. notes, "If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent for a night this is a good pick. Lake area is nice enough, but lots of litter and shot gun shells."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Choose established campgrounds with basic amenities when with children. Hunter H. from Puskus Lake explains, "This is a great location to disconnect, but do not expect the amenities other sites offer (bathrooms, electricity, water, etc.)."
Weekend planning: Sites fill quickly Friday through Sunday, especially in summer. Natalee F. advises about Puskus Lake: "I camped here just one night in May 2021 on a Saturday, I got there at about 3pm and was the first there but by nightfall every site was full."
Cleanliness preparation: Bring cleanup supplies as some areas have litter issues. At Cox Lake, Kelly C. mentions the area has "lots of litter and shot gun shells," suggesting families should come prepared with trash bags.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most primitive sites near Hernando can only accommodate small trailers or pop-ups. At Maple Flat Group Campground, the sites are described as "shady, wooded, pretty large individual sites" by Kim B., but access may limit larger RVs.
Boondocking capabilities: RVers must be self-sufficient at most sites. At Graham Lake, Steve G. advises, "Large rigs are a no go I would think, as access can be tight. If you're in a small to medium travel trailer or a tent, this could work out."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for natural, uneven terrain at most sites. Bryce K. from Puskus Lake suggests, "If you have solar or starlink pick your spot wisely as a lot I have a ton of trees."
