Dispersed camping near New Albany, Mississippi centers around several recreation areas within the Holly Springs National Forest and multiple state parks throughout the region. The area sits at approximately 400 feet elevation with rolling hills characteristic of northeast Mississippi's terrain. Campgrounds in this region typically operate year-round, though winter temperatures can drop into the 30s December through February.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Wall Doxey State Park offers a full disc golf course winding through pine forest. As one camper noted, "the disc golf course is very fun. It has an interesting layout in the woods so it is much like a hike." The course provides a unique way to explore the natural environment while enjoying a recreational activity.
Fishing opportunities: Puskus Lake provides a peaceful setting for anglers. "Hardly any other people around," mentions one visitor. The lake features docks that are "nice, wide with bench seating" according to another camper. The recreation area also includes a boat ramp for those wanting to fish from the water.
Trail exploration: Several campgrounds offer hiking trails of varying difficulty. At Trace State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the "nice hiking trails" with one camper mentioning that the grounds are "beautiful, great for walking our dogs." Most trails in the area are relatively flat with moderate terrain suitable for casual hikers.
What campers like
Lakefront views: Many campsites near New Albany, Mississippi offer lake access and views. At Howard Stafford Park Campground, campers enjoy the water proximity with one visitor describing it as a "small park right on the lake" with "concrete pad" sites. Another camper mentioned they stayed at "site #7 overlooking the lake."
Affordable rates: State parks and forest service campgrounds in the region maintain lower prices compared to private operations. One camper at Puskus Lake mentioned it is "relatively cheap to camp there which is always great!" Another noted the self-check-in process is "handled at the permit box upon turning off the highway."
Peaceful atmosphere: Tombigbee State Park Campground receives praise for its quiet environment. A visitor described it as "remote & serene" and appreciated the "green space, natural habitat and night sounds." Another camper mentioned it was "beautifully quiet and fairly well kept" during their stay.
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds in the area have maintenance issues with internal roads. At Trace State Park, a camper noted "access roads need replacing" while another mentioned "the only issue was the poor road maintenance in getting to our campsite." This appears to be a common theme across multiple state parks in the region.
Limited amenities: Chewalla Lake Recreation Area provides basic facilities but campers should prepare accordingly. One visitor mentioned "bathrooms are not kept up, dirty and no lights in the showers." Another noted it's "rustic and not overcrowded" with primarily self-check-in procedures.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. A camper at Trace State Park mentioned "sketchy cell service" while another at Tombigbee noted "poor cell service with AT&T and if you have starling it won't work due to all the trees."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Howard Stafford Park includes family-friendly amenities. One camper noted the park has "a splash pad, a basketball court, and several piers on the lake for fishing." Another mentioned the entire area is a "public use park" with recreational facilities adjacent to the camping area.
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds in the area have limited staffing. At Puskus Lake, a solo female camper reported that "every site was full" on a Saturday night visit, and noted a late-night arrival where someone "walked onto my site right up to my tent," suggesting families should be mindful of site selection and security.
Swimming options: Moon Lake Farm offers water recreation suitable for families. A visitor described it as a "beautiful property" with a "beautiful lake to enjoy." Another mentioned it has "great amenities" including a "short trail that goes around the property."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. At Wall Doxey State Park, an RVer mentioned, "We came in with a 38' RV not much problem with spaces but be aware of trees on both sides of spaces." They noted most sites "are not leveled" despite having water and electric hookups.
Hookup variations: Full-service sites are available at select campgrounds. At Tombigbee State Park, a camper highlighted that "most sites with full hook up including sewer and 30/50 amp plugs" are available, making it convenient for extended stays. The campground is described as "small, intimate, tons of shade" with sites that are "easy to get into."
Parking considerations: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. One RVer at Howard Stafford Park noted "the rv pads are very short and uneven" despite the park being "quiet and very friendly." This indicates larger rigs may need to carefully research site options before arrival.
