Davis Lake Campground sits 4 miles from the Natchez Trace Parkway in the Tombigbee National Forest, where camping options near New Houlka, Mississippi provide direct access to a 200-acre lake. Most RV campgrounds in this region operate year-round, with highest occupancy during spring and fall months when temperatures range from 60-85°F. Cell service varies throughout the area with stronger signals closer to Tupelo, approximately 30 minutes northeast of New Houlka.
What to do
Fishing from shoreline sites: At Davis Lake Campground, lakefront camping puts you steps from fishing spots. "Davis Lake Recreation Area is situated just 4 miles from the Natchez Trace Parkway. The campground is adjacent to the Eastern shore of the 200 acre Davis Lake. 14 sites are right on the lake front offering spectacular sun rises and evening sun sets," notes one camper.
Swimming at the beach area: A designated swimming area provides summer recreation, though water conditions require preparation. "The swimming area steps are quite slippery as well and muscle shells are ever present so i would recommend aquatic footwear if you plan on using this area," advises a regular visitor to Davis Lake.
Biking the Tanglefoot Trail: Near Howard Stafford Park Campground, the rail-to-trail conversion offers cycling opportunities. "Tupelo is 30 minutes away with the Elvis Birthplace museum and other attractions. There's a gas station at the entrance to the park for snacks and ice," shares a camper who visited with a teardrop trailer.
What campers like
Lakefront access: Many campsites at Davis Lake provide direct water views. "We stayed in site 18 by the water, most lakeside sites are about 20 feet from shore, and are mostly grass besides the driveway and tent pad," reports one reviewer who appreciated the proximity to the lake.
Clean facilities: Moon Lake Farm maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "This is a very peaceful stop with 30 amp power and water available. Well kept and very nice host. John communicated with us perfectly. The land and lake are beautiful," writes a satisfied camper.
Affordable pricing: Campsites in the region offer good value for budget-conscious travelers. "Level, fire pits, charcoal grills, picnic tables, water and electric all for 20.00 a night and we didn't qualify for any discount. Already decided we're staying another night!" explains an enthusiastic visitor to Davis Lake.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Choose campsites carefully based on your equipment size. "Do your research on the campsites. Some are pretty short and will not accommodate long rigs," advises one camper who stayed at Davis Lake for 5 days.
Off-season maintenance varies: Facility upkeep can be inconsistent outside peak seasons. "Facilities are really only maintained during peak season and even then I've been greeted by dirty showers and restrooms more than once," notes a local who frequents Davis Lake.
Local provisions: Most RV parks near New Houlka have limited on-site supplies. "There's a gas station at the entrance to the park for snacks and ice," shares a reviewer about Howard Stafford Park, while grocery options require driving to nearby towns.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Serenity RV Park offers recreation areas for children. "Facilities include a clean shower and restroom area, as well as a laundry room equipped with four washers and four dryers, each costing $3 per use. During our visit, the small dog run was unavailable due to maintenance or AstroTurf installation. A small playground is located adjacent to it."
Swimming precautions: Prepare children for natural lake conditions with appropriate footwear. Davis Lake's swimming area requires caution as "the swimming area steps are quite slippery as well and muscle shells are ever present," according to a regular visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lakes around New Houlka attract diverse bird species. "The lake is known to anglers, and wildlife and birds are a given...we had a Great Blue Heron 'friend' during our entire stay," shares one camper about their Davis Lake experience.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pad availability: Lakelife RV Park provides varying site surfaces. "This is a gravel parking lot with hook ups. Sites are extremely close together. Not my idea of 'recreation'," notes one RVer, contrasting with Howard Stafford Park's "Full hookups and concrete pad."
After-hours access: Some campgrounds provide security gates with camper access. "Non campers kicked out at 8pm and gates are locked. All campers get a key for after hours entry/exit," reports a visitor to Howard Stafford Park.
Electric hookup considerations: Check power pedestal configuration before arrival. "Water and electric hookups are centrally located on the pad, though the electric connection sits low to the ground, requiring us to bend the surge protector to plug in," shares a camper who stayed at Serenity RV Park.
