Best Dispersed Camping near Lucedale, MS

Dispersed camping near Lucedale, Mississippi centers around three main areas: Leaf Wilderness Area, Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping, and Deer Island Dispersed Camping. The Leaf Wilderness Area provides primitive camping along main forest roads with visible campsites. Camp Shelby offers drive-in and walk-in access on public land. Deer Island represents a unique option, accessible only by boat from the Mississippi Gulf Coast. All three locations provide free camping with minimal amenities and no reservations required.

Access conditions vary significantly between these dispersed camping areas. Leaf Wilderness Area has limited signage, making sites difficult to locate for first-time visitors. Camp Shelby features drive-in access but may have challenging conditions, particularly during wet weather when the red clay soil becomes muddy. Deer Island requires watercraft, with kayaking being a common method to reach the island from Biloxi, approximately half a mile offshore. None of these areas offer drinking water, and only Camp Shelby provides toilet facilities. Fires are permitted at all locations, though campers must bring their own firewood.

The camping experience differs substantially across these sites. Leaf Wilderness campsites are positioned along main roads, which provides easier access but less privacy. "You just drive and see very clear campsites along the main road," notes one visitor, though some report hearing gunfire in the vicinity. Camp Shelby receives mixed reviews, with reports of bullet casings and trash in some areas. "The entire area was littered with burnt trash, animal remains and shell casings," one camper reported. Deer Island offers a more secluded experience despite its proximity to Biloxi, with opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly birds. However, visitors mention seeing litter along the shoreline. "It's less than a half-mile off the coast, but far enough away to be left alone," according to one camper's experience.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lucedale, Mississippi (3)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Lucedale, MS

4 Photos of 3 Lucedale Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lucedale, MS

9 Reviews of 3 Lucedale Campgrounds


  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2025

    Leaf Wilderness Area

    Spots are along main road

    You just drive and see very clear campsites along the main road. Due to it being public land, we did here shooting nearby, not fun.

    If it weren't for the shooting, this would be a 5 star.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 5, 2024

    Deer Island Dispersed Camping

    Great place

    Deer Island is an amazing location to fully appreciate the natural splendor of the Mississippi Gulf Coast! We can join minecraftle game together. My spouse, a few friends, our teenagers(a group of six) and I decided to embark on a tour with Happy Daze Kayaking in Biloxi, MS, and we were extremely satisfied! This particular excursion involved pedal kayaking, which was a new experience for us. The journey from the launch point to the island was just a short and enjoyable few minutes. The owner of the company provided us with valuable insights about the wildlife and ensured we didn't miss anything noteworthy. Pedaling was definitely the way to go! It wasn't challenging and allowed us to sit back and relax. It's advisable to bring bug spray as there might be occasional insects. We had a delightful picnic lunch on the island and had a fantastic time overall. I highly recommend considering Happy Daze Kayaking if you're seeking enjoyable activities on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

  • Debbie S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 7, 2025

    Leaf Wilderness Area

    Couldn’t find, no signs!

    My GPS said turn left, I looked and there was an old, overgrown, wagon trail. Next to a private residence. WITH NO SIGN. I was afraid I was trespassing! It was on the dark side of dusk and raining really hard so maybe I missed something… I won’t try again!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 18, 2024

    Deer Island Dispersed Camping

    Only accessible via boat

    I wish I wouldn’t known this was only accessible via boat, which in hindsight was obvious from the title lol.

  • Sami H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 10, 2020

    Deer Island Dispersed Camping

    Serious solitude

    When the pandemic hit, I hit the road. Drove south to Biloxi, parked, hopped in my kayak, and paddled to Deer Island. It’s less than a half-mile off the coast, but far enough away to be left alone. Great paddling, quiet camping, lots of birds. Downsides included: casino views on one side, and a lot of litter along the shores.

    I’ve been told it gets crowded with parties and boats on weekends, but I didn’t see any of that. Just the trash left behind.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2023

    Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping

    not a terrible spot if in a pinch

    The road you drive on to get here has multiple signs warning that stray bullets may cross. The actual sites are littered with bullet casings and other trash. If it’s rainy or wet the ground turns to red mud you could get stuck in. But it’s free so.

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 25, 2022

    Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping

    Found is by accident

    Been there once, Going again sometime soon. Stayed in my SUV for 2 nights and didn't see or hear anyone around. Did hear dogs(or coyotes) in the background but nothing happened. It's up on a little hill which is nice. You have a huge amount of space to go back off the road. I'll update again(11/22)

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2023

    Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping

    Very gross!!!

    The entire area was littered with burnt trash, animal remains and shell casings. It seems to be more of a shooting range than a camping spot. 30Sep23


Guide to Lucedale

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lucedale, Mississippi, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Leaf Wilderness Area

  • Located in Mississippi, Leaf Wilderness Area offers a serene environment where you can enjoy hiking and walk-in access to your camping site.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lucedale, Mississippi

  • When visiting Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping, be prepared for a rustic experience, as amenities like drinking water and electric hookups are not available.

Enjoy kayaking and wildlife at Deer Island

  • For a unique experience, consider paddling to Deer Island Dispersed Camping, where you can immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Mississippi Gulf Coast while enjoying the tranquility of the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lucedale, MS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lucedale, MS is Leaf Wilderness Area with a 2-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lucedale, MS?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Lucedale, MS, with real photos and reviews from campers.