Turkey Creek Water Park provides equestrian camping near Carthage, Mississippi, with dedicated facilities for riders and horses. The campground offers 142 Parkway Drive access in Decatur, approximately 30 minutes from Carthage. Sites accommodate trailers with parking and hookups, while the natural setting includes trails suitable for novice to intermediate riders across wooded terrain.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Creek reservoir contains abundant bass fishing spots with lily pads. According to Brad O., the lake offers "Lilly pads and bass," making it a productive fishing destination for anglers of all skill levels.
Trail riding: The equestrian trails at Turkey Creek Water Park provide natural terrain suitable for horses. As Kesha notes, there's a "new area for bringing horses to camp and trail ride" with "clean with nice bunk houses" for overnight stays.
Water recreation: The reservoir allows various activities beyond horseback riding. Lynn G. explains that visitors can "enjoy fishing and especially water skiing with your own boat or a boat rented on site," adding that "you can rent boats on site makes it so much easier!"
What campers like
Peaceful environment: The smaller campground size creates a quieter experience. Nelwyn B. describes it as a "small campground on a lake. Pretty and quiet" noting "recent work on campsites to create level sites."
Helpful staff: Turkey Creek Water Park maintains a reputation for good customer service. Tony H. states it's "one of the best campgrounds around hands down" where "the people that work there are super friendly and helpful."
Private campsites: The wooded setting provides separation between sites. Lynn G. mentions "great peaceful area with classic MS views" and "wooded and private campsites" that enhance the natural experience.
What you should know
Not a conventional water park: First-time visitors should understand the terminology. Lynn G. clarifies that "By 'water park' they mean 'park with recreation activities on the water' not a man made park with slides and rides."
Facility amenities: Bienville National Forest Shockaloe Base Camp 1 offers more rustic facilities compared to Turkey Creek. Shawn & Vicki M. note the "place is ok bathroom gross" and "fire pits need to be cleaned out," indicating visitors should prepare accordingly.
Lake access costs: The main lake activities require additional payment. Lynn G. mentions "costs a little more to access the lake (not bad, just a surprise)" when planning water recreation.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Yogi on the Lake provides family-focused recreation near Carthage. Claire M. explains "Fun campground for the kiddos. Loved all of the activities and amenities available" and notes "kiddos were obsessed with jumping pillow."
Rainy day alternatives: Weather considerations are important for family trips. Claire M. highlights that the "activity center was awesome especially for rainy days" ensuring entertainment regardless of conditions.
Seasonal water features: Water attractions vary by season and temperature. Ashley S. shares that Yogi on the Lake "seemed like they had a lot of water activities for summer time" suggesting families plan accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for potentially uneven sites. Ashley S. cautions "our site was a very tight pull thru site" and "the site was very sloped so getting in the camper was difficult because the steps were so high off the ground."
Site selection: When making reservations, confirm site dimensions and access. Jackie H. experienced "extremely un-level" RV gravel pads, suggesting campers request specific site information or alternatives if needed.
Extended stays: Horse campgrounds near Carthage, Mississippi offer monthly options for longer visits. Claire M. mentions "very good monthly rate" at Yogi on the Lake for those planning extended equestrian camping trips.
