Camping near Thomastown, Mississippi offers multiple options for outdoor recreation around lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. The area sits in central Mississippi's pine belt region with elevations ranging from 300-400 feet. Campsites generally stay open year-round, though summer humidity can reach 80-90% with temperatures averaging 90°F in July and August.
What to do
Fishing on Shadow Lake: Roosevelt State Park offers access to Shadow Lake with its active fish population. "The old campground is where we like to stay. Mostly quiet and this is the side with the primitive tent camping. This side also has a good bit of shaded spots that are on the water," explains one Roosevelt State Park visitor.
Trail walking: The natural trails at LeFleur's Bluff provide woodland walking opportunities. "The trails are lovely, easy walks through cypress swamps and dry forest. One way the trail leads to a dam with old structures and great fishing opportunities, the other fork leads you to the museum of natural science," notes a LeFleur's Bluff State Park camper.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature boat launches, swimming areas, and waterfront access. At Coal Bluff Campground, "The river and sand bar are literally right behind the CG. Would like to try and camp here if they ever had an opening for a somewhat 'good' spot. Has swimming pool, tennis court and a basketball goal. Boat ramp and day use spot as well."
What campers like
Level concrete pads: Campers appreciate the solid foundations at many area campgrounds. A visitor to Roosevelt State Park noted, "This is what a State Park should look like! Smooth paved roads, level concrete pads, picnic tables that will seat 8, fire ring and grill at each site. This park has been completely remodeled and they did a fantastic job. Pull thru's and back in's available."
Wildlife viewing: The waterfront locations provide opportunities to observe native species. At Goshen Springs Campground, campers can "Fish from a boat or the shore and catch bass, perch, or huge catfish. Campground is equipped with grills, picnic, boat launches, boat slips, monthly rentals, swimming pool, playground, bathhouse, laundry."
Secluded locations: Despite proximity to towns, many campgrounds maintain a natural feel. Leake County Water Park offers a "Secluded location" according to one reviewer, while another describes it as "a unique place just north of a dam (low head dam) that has another park and boat ramp for fishermen and a very friendly family owned bait store between the parks."
What you should know
Seasonal maintenance: Some campgrounds undergo renovations during different times of year. A Roosevelt State Park visitor mentioned, "Been camping there for years. Some of the sites are pretty rough and in need of repair and they are working on them in stages. Nice lake and lots of woods and trails for hiking."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary between campgrounds. At Coal Bluff Park, one visitor noted, "The host was very nice and accommodating. We was able to pull in at 6pm on a Friday night. There's showers, bathrooms, a pool and laundry room. Besides the showers needing a fresh coat of paint, I'd definitely stay here again! We felt safe."
Long-term residents: Some campgrounds have monthly rental options with permanent residents. "Finally stopped by to check out this CG. Actually a lot bigger then I had expected. The grounds were clean and looked nice. That being said, there are a lot of people who call this home. They have pay monthly spots but it looked like so many more are living there."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Movietown RV Park, "For 30$ a night u get a level gravel drive thru spot electric, sewer, water, and wifi, laundry facilities and bath house very very clean. Very quiet all thru the day and night. Friendly people all round. 5 min to walmart, tractor supply, and many restaurants and gas stations."
Swimming options: Multiple locations feature swimming facilities. Leake County Water Park remains popular with families, while Roosevelt State Park offers both lake swimming and a pool facility. A camper at Roosevelt mentioned, "Lot's to do here. Hiking, boating, pool, water slides."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds connect to educational facilities. A LeFleur's Bluff visitor noted, "Campground located next to Mississippi Museum of Natural History, a Children's Museum, Ag Museum and a golf course too. Great location to explore Jackson MS."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: RV sites vary in their need for leveling equipment. At Roosevelt State Park, one RVer advised, "Nice park. Best spots are in the 14-17 area flatter that others. Some spots are very narrow and drop off as soon as you leave the pad. Spots in the 'older' area seem more spaced out."
Overnight access: For late arrivals, Low Head Dam Campground offers "Secluded. All the basic amenities. Well maintained" sites. This campground provides the essential services while maintaining a quiet atmosphere.
Site spacing: Sites vary in size and separation between neighbors. A Goshen Springs visitor observed, "Camp there several times a year from spring through summer. Sites are spacious and level. Has easy access to the Pearl River and Ross Barnett Reservoir. Plenty of boat parking and nice boat launch. Clean restrooms and nice pool."
