Tent camping near Pope, Mississippi offers seasonal opportunities from spring through fall with mild to hot temperatures depending on the time of year. Summer campers should prepare for high humidity and temperatures reaching into the 90s, while spring and fall bring more comfortable conditions with occasional rainfall. Primitive tent sites around Sardis Lake tend to see higher occupancy on weekends and during fishing tournaments when locals utilize the boat launches.
What to do
Fishing at Kellys Crossing: Access Arkabutla Lake for fishing without competing with crowds at this primitive site. "This is an off the beaten path area for standard recreation. It's technically a boat ramp that accesses Arkabutla Lake with picnic and camping areas nearby," notes Heath T., who adds that the area is particularly quiet during winter months when "there are hardly any other persons around besides the fishermen out on the water."
Kayaking at Puskus Lake: Paddle the calm waters at this small lake in Holly Springs National Forest. The lake features "nice docks over the water to hang out on" according to Kim N., while another visitor mentioned it's a "fun little quick trip to paddle around in kayak, fish & enjoy great meal over grill."
Hiking local trails: Explore the limited but accessible trails around Puskus Lake. "There are 2 trails you can walk on around the campsite but they only equal about 5 miles and are not maintained very well in some areas although they are flat and easy to explore," shares one camper. The trails provide good opportunities for day hikes without venturing far from camp.
What campers like
Privacy at smaller sites: Graham Lake offers seclusion with its limited number of campsites. "This is a very small campground with about 5 spots," explains Steve G., making it ideal for campers seeking quieter surroundings. The campground's small footprint means less noise and fewer neighbors.
Water views: Many tent sites provide scenic lake views, particularly at Eagle Point. A visitor notes, "The campground is located in a beautiful spot on a peninsula with great views of Grenada lake at both sunrise and sunset." Another camper adds that Eagle Point has "breathtaking" views and is "about 10 mins to town."
Low cost camping: Beach Point offers affordable lakeside camping with seasonal price fluctuations. "We went in the off season so it was free!" reports McKinley L., while regular rates typically run $8 per night. Graham Lake is described by one reviewer as "a free campground," providing no-cost camping options for budget-conscious campers.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Expect basic or non-functioning amenities at most primitive sites. At Beach Point, Elizabeth S. reports, "The bathrooms were…campsite bathrooms. Not the best, not the worst. No locked stall doors. No soap. But the toilets flushed so there's that." Similarly at Puskus, "Only one of the three outhouses where open and that was the one by the boat launch."
Accessibility challenges: Eagle Point Primitive Campground requires caution when navigating after dark. One RVer warns, "Do not try to come at night. It is pitch black and steep drop offs." The campground layout may present challenges for larger vehicles, with the same reviewer noting, "I fit pretty good in my 24' motorhome but would be leery of something too much bigger."
Seasonal pests: Bug activity increases during warmer months. At Beach Point, one camper warned, "The flies!! They were so so bad! And bighty!! My poor dogs were covered in flies, as were we." Another visitor at Puskus advises to "Be mindful of snakes and your usual pests."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hugh White State Park - Outlet Channel offers family-friendly facilities. "Playgrounds available for the kids," notes CJ W., making it suitable for families with younger children who need recreational options beyond swimming and hiking.
Water safety: Exercise caution with children near water, especially at Hugh White State Park. "This water flow is after the dam, so has a very strong current. Definitely not for swimming, but an okay view," warns a camper. Similarly, Puskus Lake has restrictions where "you cannot swim in the lake."
Site selection: Choose tent sites based on proximity to facilities when camping with children. At Beach Point, locations vary considerably: "We reserved campsites 13 and 14, at the far end, behind the restrooms. You have to park in the parking lot and carry your stuff to the site." Campers with kids should select sites closer to bathrooms and water sources.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Elmers Hill accommodates only smaller RVs and trailers. "No hookups of any kind for campers," mentions Steve G., who clarifies it has "about 8 tent sites" but isn't suitable for larger rigs. Similarly, at Graham Lake, "Large rigs are a no go I would think, as access can be tight."
Parking restrictions: Some campgrounds require separate parking from tent sites. At Beach Point, "Cars stay in the parking lot, and you walk up to your site," explains Caitlyn E. Another camper adds, "All sites are tent sites so you have to be parked in the parking lot but we were the only ones there in early January so was easy to park as close as possible to a spot."
Boondocking considerations: Prepare for self-contained camping at primitive sites. "No hookups. Nothing. But, it is a free campground so what can you say," notes one camper about Graham Lake. Another reviewer advises, "If you're in a small to medium travel trailer or a tent, this could work out. Bathrooms are there but bring your own paper."
