Dispersed camping near Petal, Mississippi provides access to the Longleaf Pine region with moderate humidity levels and average summer temperatures of 90°F. The camping areas around Petal sit at elevations of 150-300 feet above sea level, with sandy soil conditions that drain quickly after rainfall. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with peak visitor seasons from March through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Perry Campground offers multiple lakeside sites with excellent fishing access. "Perfect base camp for traveling deep into DeSoto National Forest while still being close enough to civilization," notes Lynn G., who enjoyed kayaking and hiking Black Creek Trail during their stay.
Disc golf courses: Little Black Creek Campground features two championship-level disc golf courses. "The park boasts 2 championship level Disc Golf courses and hosts Big Rip Classic Disc golf Tournament each October. Great fishing, kayaking, swimming, and hiking," according to Dale M.'s review.
Nature exploration: Forest trails provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. "Started out the day looking for a different place in De Soto National Forest, but got lost and found this campground. Was very surprised at how clean and neat the areas were...The trail was a short .5 mile nature walk, but beautiful and relaxing," shares Sheep S. about Lake Perry.
What campers like
Lake-centered activities: Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground offers waterfront camping with pier access. "Our site was lakeside on a hill leading down to a pier that jutted into the lake. It also had a grill and wooden picnic table that was movable," writes Layla D., who appreciated the full hookups and bird watching opportunities.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds provide designated swimming zones. "We stayed here for a couple of nights and wished we could have stayed longer because there is so much to do. The park is set amongst tall trees giving it that nice outdoorsy feel," explains Nancy W., who visited Paul B. Johnson.
Quiet setting with privacy: Secluded sites offer peaceful camping experiences. "Beautiful property that is well cared for," states Erin about Hattiesburg / Okatoma River KOA, which features sites arranged around a central lake with walking trails.
What you should know
Site conditions: Campgrounds vary in terrain and accessibility. "Some sites have wooden decks, but that really sacrifices 'yard space' if that's an important factor for you," notes Layla D. about Paul B. Johnson State Park.
Off-peak advantages: Visiting during weekdays provides a quieter experience. "The weekend we were there in November was jammed packed but it seems to clear out during the week when kids go back to school," shares Nancy W., who noticed significant differences in noise levels at Paul B. Johnson.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Petal: Lake Walker Military - Camp Shelby accepts pets at campsites. "No pull throughs....some spots are hard to park campers in...clean and full hook ups in all spots," mentions Penny W., who appreciated the coin-operated laundry facilities near the shower buildings.
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "While maybe not a destination site, it's great for overnighting," says JJ M. about Forest County Multi-Purpose Events Center, adding that payment operates on an honor system.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Lake Perry Campground provides safe water access for children. "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," explains Meagen W., highlighting the affordable $13 nightly rate with water and electric hookups.
Splash pads: Water features provide entertainment during hot months. "Paul B Johnson State Park in Mississippi is a great place to get away and enjoy the outdoors! They have a splash pad for the kids and a disc golf course," recommends Michelle F.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Multiple campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. "Beautiful park. Could use just a little more space. Lots of wildlife and amenities. Cabins, laundry, pavilions, pool, propane and store," writes John R. about Hattiesburg / Okatoma River KOA, noting the park's groomed appearance despite wilderness setting.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placements: Consider connection locations when selecting sites. "The connections were quite spread out with the water pretty far back from the other connections at this site (we needed two water hoses)," warns Layla D. about Paul B. Johnson State Park.
Parking challenges: Shady Cove RV Park offers pull-through sites for travelers. "Mostly filled with full-timers / trade workers they don't do reservations but they do reserve 5 pull thru sites for people passing through," explains Richard S., adding that "sites were soft/sandy and not super level."
Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "A large 5th wheel had to leave as there was not a site large enough," shares Roger W. about Lake Perry, noting that only site #1 would have accommodated the trailer.
