Ovett, Mississippi sits within the DeSoto National Forest region at an elevation of approximately 230 feet. The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with average summer temperatures between 80-95°F and winter temperatures rarely dropping below 30°F. Annual rainfall averages 59 inches, making campgrounds in this region particularly lush with pine forest vegetation but potentially muddy during wet seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Fork Rec Area offers prime fishing access for multiple species. As one visitor noted, "I didn't scout out every site but ours was in excellent condition. They don't 'over-manicure' the space between the lake and campsites so it feels more natural and tucked into nature than other places we've been."
Kayaking options: The Okatoma River provides excellent paddling experiences near campsites in Ovett. According to one camper at Hattiesburg/Okatoma River KOA, "Start your day by checking in and doing one of the two kayaking trips this place has to offer and end your day by the fire right next to the river."
Hiking trails: Several short trails exist throughout the DeSoto National Forest with most under 1 mile in length. A visitor at Lake Perry Campground mentioned, "The trail was a short .5 mile nature walk, but beautiful and relaxing. All around, a hidden gem."
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities abound with numerous species visible from campsites. As one camper observed, "There are so many species of birds if you enjoy bird watching like we do. We enjoyed watching geese and ducks on Geiger Lake in the morning."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Lake Perry Campground receives consistent praise for its lakeside camping. "This campground only has 10 or so sites and could be tricky with large rigs. But if you're able to get in it's great. Very quiet with beautiful views from most sites. If you want to relax on a nice lake and fish or kayak this is the place."
Privacy levels: Many campsites near Ovett provide adequate spacing between sites. A camper at Turkey Fork noted, "The sites were spaced further apart than many of the other campgrounds we've been. It was quite and peaceful."
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates compared to national averages. One visitor at Lake Perry Campground pointed out, "Oh and at $13 per night with water and electric you can afford to stay awhile."
Natural settings: The pine forests create shaded camping environments throughout the region. A review of Big Creek Water Park states, "Sites are roomy. All the things you need-electricity water fire ring and concrete picnic table. Lake playground. Bath house with flush toilets. Could use an update but not bad. Just a beautiful setting."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The high humidity and rainfall can affect camping conditions. A reviewer at Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground warned, "We booked a long weekend getaway with the promise of beautiful spring weather. Unfortunately, our trip here was cut short due to a family emergency, but we were able to scope things out for future adventures."
Site variations: Campground quality varies significantly throughout the region. "We had the good fortune of finding this gem as an overnight waypoint on a recent trip to Florida. We found an asphalt pad with full hookups overlooking Lake Geiger for our Sprinter Camper van."
Access limitations: Road conditions can challenge some vehicles, particularly after rain. At Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping, one visitor reported, "If it's rainy or wet the ground turns to red mud you could get stuck in. But it's free so."
Military proximity: Some campsites near Ovett are close to training facilities. A camper noted, "Camp Shelby is nearby, so you'll hear various noises from that (not overly distracting but I wish I would have known before arriving)."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Hattiesburg / Okatoma River KOA offers family-friendly water activities. "Very friendly and helpful staff. Park is very well maintained. The park is very much off the beaten path so it is quiet and peaceful. There is a lot to do within the park– swimming, fishing(no license required), basketball, a playground for children."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. One visitor mentioned, "There is a splash pad, lake swimming, and several picnic areas near the visitor center that would be awesome for kids and families when the weather is warmer."
Site selection for families: Choose sites with adequate space for children. "We ventured to this campground not knowing what to expect. It did not disappoint! The sites were spaced further apart than many of the other campgrounds we've been."
Pet accommodations: Many campgrounds welcome family pets. A camper at Sleepy Hollow RV Park noted, "After being cooped up in the camper and leashed outside, we were able to bring all of our pups to the enclosed dog play area that had a great big shade tree to run and run and run."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Sleepy Hollow RV Park provides well-maintained pads for RVs. "Many of the spots were cement and beautifully leveled. We met a few really great people there, some that were camping, others that were also evacuated."
Hookup accessibility: Check water and electric connection distances at campsites near Ovett. One RVer mentioned, "However, the connections were quite spread out with the water pretty far back from the other connections at this site (we needed two water hoses)."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer sewer connections. A visitor at Forest County Multi-Purpose Events Center reported, "Concrete pads, full hookups, excellent satellite reception throughout the park."
Campground navigation: Some roads within campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. "The roads in the campground are narrow, two-lane roads but are not conducive to two RVs passing one another. We had to get off of the road for others to pass."
