The Houston, Mississippi area offers several camping options situated in the Tombigbee National Forest region, approximately 30-45 minutes from Tupelo. Most campgrounds in this area are open year-round with summer temperatures typically reaching 90°F and winter lows around 30°F. Cell service can be spotty in more remote locations, particularly those away from major highways and deeper into forested areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Davis Lake Campground provides excellent bank and pier fishing, with a 200-acre lake known for good catches. "Plenty of place to tie up a boat. We plan to return and explore some more!" notes Nate S., who visited with his travel trailer.
Hiking trails: Moon Lake Farm offers a short nature walk around its property. According to Tim, the campground has "a short trail that goes around the property and a beautiful lake to enjoy."
Lakeside walking: Howard Stafford Park features scenic paths along the water's edge. One visitor mentioned, "Nice walking paths along the lakes edge provides a great place for a view of the sunset."
Swimming access: During warmer months, Davis Lake provides swimming areas, though users should note potential hazards. "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 Chris M.
What campers like
Peaceful environment: Moon Lake Farm gets high marks for tranquility. Mike B. describes it as "a very peaceful stop with 30 amp power and water available. Well kept and very nice host. John communicated with us perfectly."
Budget-friendly options: Howard Stafford Park offers affordable rates. Simon C. notes, "Can't beat the price at $22/night. We stopped in for a night in our teardrop trailer on our way farther up north."
Clean facilities: Lakelife RV Park maintains good amenities despite mixed reviews on site spacing. E.M. mentions it has "a central fire ring with swings, a small camp store, laundry room, and bathhouse."
Dark skies: Davis Lake's location in the national forest means minimal light pollution. Stephen & Theresa B. report there was "no light pollution making the night sky a spectacular sight to see."
What you should know
Limited site availability: Most campgrounds in the area have fewer than 20 sites and fill quickly during peak seasons. At Howard Stafford Park Campground, Stacey notes it's "a small comfortable campground with full hookups" with "less than 20 sites."
Variable site quality: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Davis Lake, one reviewer advises: "do your research on the campsites. some are pretty short and will not accommodate long rigs."
Seasonal maintenance: Facility upkeep can vary by season. One Davis Lake visitor mentioned, "Facilities are really only maintained during peak season and even then I've been greeted by dirty showers and restrooms more than once."
Long-term residents: Several RV parks primarily cater to long-term stays rather than overnight campers. At Natchez Trace RV Park, Wendy T. advises: "If you are looking for just an overnight, my advice is to keep looking. Otherwise have a great week long stay at this campground."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational amenities: The Oaks RV Park provides cabin options for families without RVs. Jason R. notes, "The Cabins were recently added and is a nice feature. Always quiet and owners are very accommodating."
Splash pads: Howard Stafford Park includes water features for children. Simon C. mentions the park "Has a splash pad, a basketball court, and several piers on the lake for fishing."
Wildlife viewing: Davis Lake offers opportunities to observe birds and animals. One camper shared they "had a Great Blue Heron 'friend' during our entire stay," while another mentioned, "Great wildlife! Came here for bird watching."
Security features: Some parks provide controlled access after hours. At Howard Stafford Park, Jim A. notes, "Non campers kicked out at 8pm and gates are locked. All campers get a key for after hours entry/exit."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Serenity RV Park offers convenient pull-through cement sites with dual sewer connections. MickandKarla W. explain, "There are two sewer connections on both cement and gravel sites, which is a nice convenience. Water and electric hookups are centrally located on the pad."
Leveling needs: RVers should bring leveling blocks for sites at many area campgrounds. At Davis Lake, Nate S. warns, "The sites away from the water looked to be uneven and on a slope so beware if you take an rv."
Length restrictions: Many rv campgrounds in Houston, Mississippi and surrounding areas have pad size limitations. One Howard Stafford visitor commented on the concrete pads but noted they "are very short."
Hookup quality: Electrical service reliability varies by campground. Davis Lake offers "well cared for electric service (50 amp) and water," according to one reviewer, while others found inconsistent quality at smaller facilities.
