Camping sites near University, Mississippi range from secluded forest settings to waterfront locations on several major reservoirs. The terrain varies from pine forests with sandy soil to lakefront areas with elevations between 220-450 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-55°F while fall camping offers milder conditions with daytime highs in the 60-70°F range and less humidity than summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Wallace Creek, Enid Lake provides excellent angling. One camper notes it "sits on Enid Lake which is recognized as one of 'One of America's Top 10 Fishing Spots.'" The campground includes a boat launch and fish cleaning station for convenient processing.
Disc golf course: Wall Doxey State Park Campground features a complete disc golf course through pine forest. A visitor mentioned, "The highlight for us is the disc golf course that winds through the pine forest," making it an excellent activity option between swimming or hiking.
Paddling: Several lake-based campgrounds support non-motorized boating. One camper at Wallace Creek shared they "didn't have fishing licenses but loved paddling around the lake," while at Puskus Lake, visitors appreciate the "nice docks over the water to hang out on" after kayaking.
Wildlife viewing: The forested campsites at Puskus Lake offer wildlife viewing opportunities. A reviewer noted, "We saw a momma dear and her baby cross the road. Lots of trees and leaves everywhere." The secluded setting increases chances for wildlife encounters.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the generous site sizes at Pats Bluff, where "concrete pads were spacious for just about any size rig." Another reviewer highlighted one premium location: "One sweet spot I believe it is lot 16. Lake views on 3 sides of the camper."
Affordability: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds offer excellent value. At Wallace Creek, a reviewer emphasized "full hookup at $20/night a total bargain," while another camper at Puskus Lake mentioned it's "great for a night or two when you just want to go out and tent camp for a great price."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites. At Hurricane Landing, a camper noted "plenty of space and privacy between sites," while at Wall Doxey, reviewers appreciate that "the sites are far enough apart to not feel on top of your neighbor."
Off-grid experience: For those seeking solitude, Puskus Lake offers a true escape. A camper described it as "a great location to disconnect, but do not expect the amenities other sites offer (bathrooms, electricity, water, etc.)." Another mentioned it has "hardly any other people around."
What you should know
Bathhouse conditions vary: Facilities range from basic to problematic across campgrounds. At Hurricane Landing, a camper reported, "The bathhouse isn't the worst I have seen. It gets the job done, but the floor in the shower area seems to be falling apart." At Beach Point, "Bathrooms are...campsite bathrooms. Not the best, not the worst. No locked on stall doors. No soap."
Seasonal insects: Bugs can be challenging in warmer months. At Beach Point, a camper warned, "The flies!! They were so so bad! And bighty!! My poor dogs were covered in flies, as were we." Ticks are also common, with one Wall Doxey visitor cautioning, "If you are camping here anytime during the warmer months, be ready to pick ticks off of everyone!"
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels impact camping experiences significantly. At Prophet Bridge, visitors noted seasonal changes affect access: "If you want to explore other than the boat ramp area you need AWD or 4WD or it's a pretty good hike."
Maintenance varies by agency: State parks often receive less upkeep than Corps of Engineers sites. At John W. Kyle State Park, campers reported "the grass was overgrown, trash/garbage is littered everywhere" while the Corps sites typically have "paved roads with most sites on large concrete pads."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween festivities: Wall Doxey State Park Campground hosts special seasonal events. A visitor shared, "We were invited to the halloween get together at the park. And we had no idea it was such a big deal...Every camp site had wonderful decorations and the kids had such a blast."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Wallace Creek has a playground, though one camper mentioned it "still looks to be the original from the 70's," suggesting modest expectations. Hurricane Landing received better reviews with "a great little playground for little ones."
Swimming options: Beach areas are available at several campgrounds but not all. A Puskus Lake visitor pointed out that "while you can boat or fish on the lake, you cannot swim in the lake," important information for families planning water activities.
Insect preparation: Families should bring appropriate insect protection. Wall Doxey campers warned, "If you are camping here anytime during the warmer months, be ready to pick ticks off of everyone," highlighting the importance of proper clothing and repellent.
Tips from RVers
Water connection distances: At some campgrounds, utilities may be far from parking pads. One camper at John Kyle State Park advised, "The water hook ups are at least 100 foot away from most camp sites, so bring lots of extra hose."
Dump station access: RVers should verify dump station availability before arrival. At Pats Bluff, a camper reported the "dump station has been blocked by a massive mound of gravel," while another noted it was fixed later: "Every time I went they had one that worked fine."
Site selection for large rigs: Many campgrounds accommodate large RVs but require careful site selection. At Clear Creek, campers noted, "Sites are nestled in the woods and neighbors aren't too close," but emphasized checking site details as "we did see at least one site that did not appear to have a water connection."
Solar considerations: For boondockers using solar power, tree cover impacts energy collection. A Puskus Lake visitor advised, "If you have solar or starlink pick your spot wisely as a lot have a ton of trees."
