Camping opportunities near Kosciusko, Mississippi span the central part of the state where elevations range from 350 to 650 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers averaging 91°F and mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though Choctaw Lake operates seasonally from March through November.
What to do
Hiking at Jeff Busby Campground: Located at the highest point in Mississippi, this free campground offers a paved road and hiking trail to a scenic viewpoint. "There is a very nice nature trail here for walking and it is the highest point in Mississippi with wonderful views!" notes Hannah C. The trail spans over a mile with elevation changes through wooded terrain.
Fishing at Choctaw Lake: This campground north of Kosciusko provides shoreline fishing opportunities directly from campsites. "Camp sites 3-12 is where you want to be. There is a playground for kids, a boat dock if you have one, or you can just fish right off your site," writes Tiffany C. Anglers report catching bass in the smaller lake while the larger lake sees less fishing success.
Water recreation at Sunset Marina and RV Park: Located on Ross Barnett Reservoir, this park combines camping with water sports access. "This campground has two sections - long term and camping. Long term is more like an RV park, but it is nicely separated from the short-term campground which is truly water front," explains Paul C. The marina includes boat ramps and slip rentals for campers bringing watercraft.
What campers like
Concrete RV pads at Sunset Marina and RV Park: Campers appreciate the paved roads and concrete slabs during wet weather. "We were there during rains in January and having the RV on a concrete slab was a plus— the ground was quite soggy," notes Den O. The park features shoreline campsites with views of Ross Barnett Reservoir.
Secluded lakeside sites at Choctaw Lake: Campers value the peaceful setting and lake access. "Sites 5 and 8 are our favorite. Really, any site on the small lake is great. Those are the smaller number spots," recommends Jonathon B. The campground includes a trail circling the lake and limited cell service that creates a true disconnect from daily life.
Budget-friendly overnight stops: Several campgrounds offer affordable options for travelers passing through. "We got in late so we registered at the closed office door by putting our $27 payment in an envelope in the door slot. How convenient! Close to Hwy 55, clean and quiet," shares John N. about Movietown RV Park. Most rv campgrounds near Kosciusko provide self-registration for after-hours arrivals.
What you should know
Limited tent camping options: Some rv campgrounds around Kosciusko, Mississippi cater primarily to RVs with fewer accommodations for tent campers. "Campsites are on top of each other with very little tree cover. Also, tents cannot be set up on grass; only on their 'tent pads' (jagged rocks)," reports Gregory H. about Choctaw Lake. Jeff Busby Campground offers better tent options with more natural surroundings.
Varying bathroom facilities: Campground restrooms range from basic to well-maintained. "Clean bath houses with showers, beautiful lake with a small beach," notes Gregory H. about Choctaw Lake, while Multipurpose Complex RV Park lacks shower facilities entirely. Jeff Busby Campground provides "clean restrooms" according to Robert D., though they are unheated with no hot water.
Sewer connection challenges: Some RV parks have unusual hookup configurations. "Only problem is that some sewer hook-ups are 12" above ground creating a problem for dumping and drainage," cautions Den O. about Sunset Marina. Choctaw Lake offers a dump station for $5, though campers note payment logistics can be confusing.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Families with children may prefer campgrounds with swimming areas. "Nice little beach for swimming, boating and fishing. All quite clean, water and power at each campsite, great showers," Lynn G. says about Choctaw Lake. The campground also features a playground mentioned by multiple reviewers.
Space between sites: Look for campgrounds offering adequate separation between neighbors. At Movietown RV Park, "Spacious lots so you aren't right up on each other," according to Albert H. This provides families with room for outdoor activities without disturbing other campers.
Weather considerations: The region's humid climate affects comfort levels, particularly during summer months. "Nighttime can be quite humid and bug ridden but if you're equipped for it I'd say this spot is great for beginners or family trips," advises Maddox H. about Choctaw Lake. Spring and fall camping offers milder temperatures and fewer insects.
Tips from RVers
Leveling and pad quality: RV campgrounds near Kosciusko vary in site quality. Movietown RV Park offers "level gravel drive thru spot with electric, sewer, water, and wifi," according to Albert H. Sites at Jeff Busby Campground are described as "nice, quite large pull through sites" by Randy C., though they lack hookups.
Campground layout awareness: Some campgrounds have unusual site arrangements. "Paved pull through sites are first come first serve. They seem to over lap and lots of folk share the sites. So you may need to back up to get out, even if it is pull through," cautions Jacqueline A. about Jeff Busby Campground.
After-hours arrival options: Many RV parks accommodate late arrivals with self-registration systems. Movietown RV Park allows payment via envelope slot, while Leake County Water Park remains accessible year-round with 30-amp hookups and full-service sites for overnight stays.
