Grenada Lake forms the core of pet friendly camping near Holcomb, Mississippi, with the reservoir covering approximately 36,000 acres when at full capacity. Winter lake levels typically drop 15-20 feet below summer levels, affecting shoreline access and boat launch availability at several campgrounds. Temperatures range from summer highs averaging 90°F to winter lows around 30°F, with humidity levels creating challenging conditions during July and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Grenada Lake ranks among Mississippi's premier fishing destinations, particularly for crappie anglers. At Persimmon Hill Campground, "the lake is a top fishing lake with no commercial or residential developments on the lake," according to Thomas W. The campground provides fish cleaning stations at the entrance for easy processing of your catch.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, especially for deer. At Wallace Creek, campers report frequent deer sightings. One visitor noted, "I've never seen more deer, especially close up, in my life!" Bird watching is productive year-round, with morning hours providing the best viewing conditions.
Historical exploration: The area contains several historical sites worth exploring within a 30-minute drive. Lynn G. mentioned, "lots of historical sites nearby" when staying at North Abutment. The North Mississippi Fish Hatchery near Enid Dam offers educational tours for a small fee, providing insight into local conservation efforts.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer generous spacing between sites, providing privacy even during busy periods. At North Abutment, Shana D. observed, "Large campground with a couple of different loops. The sites in the first loop are close together, but the other loops have spacious sites!" This arrangement allows pets to relax without feeling crowded by neighboring campers.
Clean facilities: The Corps of Engineers maintains high standards at campgrounds around Grenada Lake. One particularly meticulous example is Gary P.'s description of Persimmon Hill Campground: "Park was so clean the roads were blown clean of leaves & pine needles twice a day by worker on a driven power blower."
Proximity to supplies: Despite the rural setting, campers appreciate the access to necessities. As Heather C. noted about Eagle Point, "About 10 mins to town, try High on the Hog bbq." Most campgrounds around Grenada Lake maintain a 10-15 minute drive time to basic supplies and restaurants.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting shoreline access. Richard observed during a Christmas camping trip to Wallace Creek: "This site will be waterfront in summer but with the winter let down no water right now." Lake drawdowns typically begin in late fall.
Local traffic patterns: Some campgrounds experience drive-through traffic from non-campers. At Eagle Point Primitive Campground, Harrison T. noted, "The only problem is the occasional truck that passes through to sit listening to music or use the campground road as a turn around." This issue appears most common during evening hours and weekends.
Navigation challenges: First-time visitors should plan to arrive during daylight hours. JP A. warns about Eagle Point: "Do not try to come at night. It is pitch black and steep drop offs." Several campgrounds have limited signage and can be difficult to navigate after dark.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: North Abutment offers centralized playground facilities that provide gathering spots for camping children. Lynn G. described it as having "activities like boating, beach, playground, cookouts, very short easy hiking trails, fishing." Most playgrounds around Grenada Lake feature basic equipment suitable for ages 5-12.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming spots with varying amenities. Chickasaw Hill features "a day use area with a boat ramp, pavilion, beach, and playground," according to Tiffani H. Swimming beaches typically open from April through September, depending on water levels.
Site selection for tent camping: Families with tents should research specific site characteristics before booking. Tiffani H. shared this advice about Chickasaw Hill: "I booked based on the map. The tent sites are not shown correctly. There are 7 walk in sites grouped together. Each site had their own electric box and shared a water faucet. Not much privacy, but my daughter loved running around with the other kids."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites with sewer connections are available at several campgrounds but vary by loop. Cal K. noted recent improvements at North Abutment: "Recently they installed sewer for full hookup in all sites." When booking, confirm whether sites offer 30-amp or 50-amp service as availability differs between campgrounds.
Level pads: Most RV sites feature concrete pads, but leveling requirements vary. At North Graysport, Paula F. reported, "All sites have concrete pads and some are tree covered but not all. My site was pretty much level." Larger rigs should verify pad length when booking, particularly for sites over 40 feet.
Accessibility considerations: RV campers should research road conditions and turning radius requirements. Paula F. observed at North Graysport, "The main roads are easy to navigate and the campground road is also easy to navigate and in really good condition." Most campgrounds can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet, with some limitations for larger vehicles at certain sites.
