Turkey Creek Water Park specializes in equestrian camping with designated facilities for horses and riders near Decatur, approximately 20 miles northwest of Meridian, Mississippi. The campground spans the shoreline of Turkey Creek Reservoir, offering a mix of wooded and waterfront campsites across both standard and horse-specific camping areas. Seasonal water levels fluctuate, with higher water typically during spring months and lower levels during late summer and fall.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Turkey Creek has developed specialized equestrian facilities where riders can access trails directly from the camping area without needing to trailer horses. "Small area for camping but new area for bringing horses to camp and trail ride," notes Kesha in her review of Turkey Creek Water Park.
Fishing opportunities: The reservoir at Turkey Creek provides good fishing conditions with various species available. "Lilly pads and bass," mentions Brad O. about his fishing experience at Turkey Creek, highlighting the natural structure that creates good fishing habitat throughout the reservoir.
Water recreation: Beyond horseback riding, visitors can enjoy water activities on the reservoir. "Enjoy fishing and especially water skiing with your own boat or a boat rented on site," writes Lynn G., noting that Turkey Creek offers "a sandy beach, and just a nice relaxing atmosphere."
What campers like
Campsite privacy: Many horse campgrounds near Meridian, Mississippi feature well-spaced sites. "Wooded and private campsites," mentions Lynn G. about Turkey Creek Water Park, appreciating the natural buffers between camping areas.
Quiet environment: Smaller campgrounds in the region provide a peaceful setting for camping with horses. "Quite and peaceful small campground with bathroom, hot showers and laundry available. Nice campsite with lake view," reports Cindy S., highlighting the tranquil atmosphere at Turkey Creek.
Historical features: Some parks near Meridian combine camping with historical attractions. At Dunns Falls Water Park, Christopher T. found a "Nice historical building" and noted being "the only camper there when I stayed. Very quiet."
What you should know
Campsite construction: Some horse camping areas in the region have undergone recent improvements. "Recent work on campsites to create level sites," reports Nelwyn B. about Turkey Creek Water Park, indicating ongoing facility upgrades.
Limited infrastructure: Certain campgrounds have minimal facilities. At Dunns Falls, Gregory H. found "No real sites (no tent pads, no fire rings)" and "Water spigots scattered around but most don't work," though he appreciated the "$15/night" cost considering the "locking gate and restrooms with water."
Reservation recommendations: During peak seasons, advanced bookings are advisable for equestrian camping. "This is one of the best campgrounds around hands down plenty of space not crowded," according to Tony H., though popularity means weekends can fill quickly.
Tips for camping with families
Water clarity awareness: Families should check water conditions before swimming. At Dunns Falls, one visitor cautions, "We also went at a bad time after the rain is not the ideal time the water was really high and the current was rapid," indicating the importance of timing water activities.
Manage expectations: Clarify facility terminology with children. Lynn G. warns that at Turkey Creek, "By 'water park' they mean 'park with recreation activities on the water' not a man made park with slides and rides. This was devastating news for our friend's young daughter!"
Plan appropriate stay duration: Some sites work better for shorter visits. Gregory H. notes about Dunns Falls, "The whole park can be explored in less than an hour, so I can't imagine staying multiple nights," suggesting it works best as a stopover.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RVers should prepare for campsite terrain variations. "Small campground on a lake. Pretty and quiet. Recent work on campsites to create level sites," reports Nelwyn B. about Dunns Falls Water Park, indicating improvements but suggesting some sites may still require leveling equipment.
Facility access times: Check operating hours for amenities. One Dunns Falls visitor noted, "Gate to park locks at 5pm (key provided at check in)," which affects late arrival and departure planning for larger rigs.
Event facilities: Groups traveling with multiple RVs can utilize gathering spaces. Turkey Creek offers "a large building to rent for reunions," making it suitable for equestrian groups or clubs traveling together with multiple horse trailers and RVs.
