Puskus Lake offers primitive camping sites in Holly Springs National Forest, about 20 miles from Oxford. The campground sits on a small lake surrounded by pine forest at around 350 feet elevation. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with summer months typically experiencing lower levels and more exposed shoreline for fishing access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Puskus Lake, visitors can enjoy fishing from well-maintained docks overlooking the lake. "The docks nice, wide with bench seating," notes Alex B., who recommends checking out the "concrete boat launch" for easier water access.
Disc golf courses: Wall Doxey State Park Campground features a disc golf course winding through pine forest areas. "The highlight for us is the disc golf course the winds through the pine forest," shares Brandon R., though he cautions about ticks during warmer months.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer walking paths, though maintenance varies. At Chewalla Lake Recreation Area, "The shaded footpaths make walking the trails on a hot day still enjoyable," according to Josh G., who appreciates the "quiet, low humidity" environment.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Wall Doxey State Park Campground earns praise for spacious campsite layout. "The sites are far enough apart to not feel on top of your neighbor," notes Brandon R., making it suitable for campers seeking more seclusion.
Affordability: Puskus Lake receives positive reviews for its budget-friendly rates. "It is also relatively cheap to camp there which is always great!" mentions Kim N., who recommends the area for "a night or two when you just want to go out and tent camp for a great price."
Lakefront camping: Hernando Point offers water-view sites that campers appreciate. "Lots of sites are waterfront," notes CJ W., adding that each site includes "electric and water, but still only $20."
What you should know
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Trace State Park Campground, reviews indicate "Clean campsites and bathrooms," according to William M., but road conditions may be challenging.
Cell service: Coverage can be unreliable depending on location. Will G. reports "sketchy cell service" at Trace State Park, though T-Mobile users at Wall Doxey State Park report adequate coverage.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds have limited availability during winter months. At Chewalla Lake Recreation Area, camping season typically runs "from mid-March through mid-November," requiring off-season visitors to verify availability.
Limited swimming: Many lakes permit fishing but restrict swimming. At Puskus Lake, Kim N. notes "While you can boat or fish on the lake, you cannot swim in the lake so keep that in mind if you are going somewhere where you want to cool off."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wallace Creek has basic playground equipment though some sites note it needs updating. "The playground looks to be the original from the 70's. I do wish they would upgrade that for the families with kids," says Shana D.
Campsite selection: For tent camping families, advance planning is important. At Wall Doxey State Park, Elise D. recommends: "I'm a tent camper and had to move sites since the one I originally picked didn't have an area for my tent. Make sure you get there by 3ish to check that your site can accommodate a tent and stakes."
Halloween festivities: Wall Doxey State Park hosts special seasonal events that children enjoy. Fred S. recounts, "Every camp site had wonderful decorations and the kids had such a blast. It was awesome," describing their Halloween celebration.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: At Trace State Park, site conditions vary. Will G. mentions "not much level space between camper pads," and advises checking site conditions upon arrival.
Hookup locations: Many campgrounds require extra hose length for water connections. At John W Kyle State Park, Christina H. shares: "We did have to buy an extra hose to reach water hookup but other than that, it was good," adding that the dump station was easily accessible.
Site spacing: Wallace Creek receives praise for its spacious RV sites. Michael Austin S. notes, "The campground is large and well-kept, with over 100 sites, and the sites are very spacious," making it suitable for larger rigs.
