Turkey Fork Recreation Area is situated in De Soto National Forest approximately 7 miles west of Richton, Mississippi. The campground sits along a 250-acre reservoir at an elevation of around 220 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while winters are mild with occasional freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Fork Reservoir is stocked with fish, making it popular among anglers. "Had a blast here. With great camper lots, scenic fishing spots, and friendly park staff me and my family thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this park," notes a visitor to Turkey Fork Rec Area.
Golfing nearby: The Citronelle area offers camping combined with golf access. "We camped in site 17 in a 40' motor home and had plenty of space. Nice concrete pad, fire ring and picnic table. The lake is beautiful and water is clear," reports a camper at Citronelle Lakeview RV Park. Another visitor adds, "We loved Citronelle and will definitely go back regularly. Whole family enjoyed playing golf, fishing, and walking."
Swimming access: Turkey Fork has designated swimming areas across the lake from the camping area. "There are two different swimming areas and a boat dock just across the lake from the camp," shares a camper who visited in 2020.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the more generous spacing between sites. "The sites were spaced further apart than many of the other campgrounds we've been. It was quite and peaceful," notes a reviewer at Turkey Fork Rec Area.
Natural shoreline: The undeveloped areas between campsites and water create a more natural feel. "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 (which we prefer). Better for the environment."
Pet amenities: Several RV parks provide dedicated pet areas. "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. Poop bags and garbage cans were convenient there and throughout the park," says a camper at Sleepy Hollow RV Park.
What you should know
Honor system payment: Some public campgrounds operate with minimal staffing. "I love the honor system. Shady camping that overlooks the reservoir," mentions a visitor about Turkey Fork.
Bathroom facilities: Availability and quality of restrooms vary by campground. "We camp in a pop-up so we rely on the bath houses - these were clean and the showers were hot!" reports a Turkey Fork camper, while at Magnolia Sands RV Park, "On site is a laundry, game room, meeting room and bathrooms with showers."
Limited activities: Some campgrounds focus primarily on water recreation. "No complaints, but if you don't have a boat there's not much to do on site," notes one Turkey Fork visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple areas for water recreation accommodate different age groups. "There's also a nice little pool. Nothing fancy, but just what the kids needed. It wasn't busy in there so they had free reign to wear themselves out," reports a family at Sleepy Hollow RV Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "There was a playground area right there between the pool and dog run," mentions a camper at Wiggins Campground & RV Park, which another visitor describes as "Very clean throw out the park. Place to walk your dogs."
Wildlife interaction: Shoreline areas provide opportunities for nature observation. "The children enjoyed playing with the perch that would swim up to them," shares a family who visited Turkey Fork.
Tips from RVers
Parking pad conditions: Surface quality varies between campgrounds. "The sites were soft/sandy and not level. My in laws had their front tires of the RV off the ground after leveling," notes an RV camper at Turkey Fork.
Navigation challenges: Some RV parks have tight turns. "Overall I like the campground it is nice and mostly quiet the hiway does produce a bit of road noise but we could not hear it in the camper with the windows closed. Lots of turns so go slow and know your rig," advises a visitor to Sleepy Hollow RV Park.
Convenient overnight stops: For travelers passing through the Richton, Mississippi area, certain RV campgrounds offer easy access. "Convenient stop for an overnight stay. Small park with Full hook-ups just off the highway. Easy in and out," says a reviewer at Mike's Place RV Park.