Big Foot Horse Trail and Camp is one of several equestrian camping options near Kiln, Mississippi, located in De Soto National Forest. Situated in the piney woods region at approximately 300 feet elevation, this area experiences humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. The forest floor consists primarily of sandy soil with pine needle coverage, creating natural drainage during Mississippi's frequent rain events.
What to do
Trail riding: Access the Big Foot Horse Trail directly from the campground with routes varying from 2-10 miles. One camper notes, "Campgrounds are beautiful with line forests surrounding the sites. Utilities are primitive but expected for a free campground."
Creek exploration: Visit nearby Creekside Farm Co. where campers can access water features. According to a reviewer, "We had direct access to the creek. The bathroom, sink, grill, and shower were just a quick walk up the hill."
Wildlife observation: The De Soto National Forest supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Flint Creek Waterpark, a camper reports, "We did encounter coyote, deer, and lots of talkative geese, so be prepared for some wildlife interaction."
What campers like
Free access: Equestrian campers appreciate no-cost camping in De Soto National Forest. A visitor to Big Foot Horse Camp noted, "Primative but free" and described the setting as "beautiful with line forests surrounding the sites."
Water features: Many campgrounds in the Kiln area offer water recreation. At Flint Creek Waterpark, a camper mentioned, "The back of the site backs up to the lake, with plenty of beach to fish or hangout. This site would be perfect during the summer if you wanted to swim."
Spacious layouts: Horse campers need room, and Clearwater RV Park provides it. A reviewer mentioned, "We had a great time especially loved the fire ring we had on our lot which was great to have during the cold weather."
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most horse camps have minimal amenities. At Big Foot Horse Camp, remember that "Watch where you step! Lots of horse poop" as one camper warned.
Seasonal considerations: Fall and spring offer the most comfortable weather for horse camping near Kiln. At Land-O-Pines Family Campground, a camper observed, "The streets and sites are gravel and can get a little muddy in spots after a rain."
Bring supplies: Most equestrian sites require self-sufficiency. At Flint Creek, a reviewer noted, "My boyfriend and I car camp and try to stay in primitive areas for the lesser (or no) fees. This site was $15 for primitive camping but included a water spigot as well as port-o-potties."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for insects: Mississippi's warm climate means bugs are common. At Creekside Farm, one visitor warned, "Only complaint is the ants were terrible! Idk where they kept coming from but definitely put up anything with food (even in tubs) up while not in use."
Pet policies: Most equestrian campgrounds near Kiln allow dogs with restrictions. At Creekside Farm, "Dogs are allowed but need to be on a lead. They have two dogs too, Mocha will come around to the campsites and creeks to say hi."
Alternative activities: Beyond horseback riding, look for other recreation. New Orleans RV Resort & Marina offers "a lovely pool and restaurant with great prices" according to one visitor, making it a good option when not riding trails.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many equestrian campgrounds have uneven sites. At Flint Creek Waterpark, a camper reported, "The only issue I had with the spots were they were all uneven, but somehow I was able to level my 37' travel trailer on the first try without any leveling aids."
Access roads: Some horse camping areas have challenging approaches. For Big Foot Horse Trail, prepare for forest service roads that may be rutted after rain events.
Supply runs: Stock up before arriving as horse camps have limited services. Near Clearwater RV Park, a camper mentioned, "There is also a family dollar/dollar tree and a dollar general down the road which was about less then 4-5 mins away which was great and very convenient."
