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Best Campgrounds near University, MS

277 Reviews

The landscape surrounding University, Mississippi features a variety of camping options centered around several lakes and reservoirs within a 30-mile radius. Corps of Engineers (COE) campgrounds at Sardis Lake, including Clear Creek, Oak Grove, and Beach Point, provide well-maintained waterfront sites with varying levels of amenities. Wall Doxey State Park, located on the edge of Holly Springs National Forest about 20 miles north of University, offers wooded campsites with lake access and hiking trails. Puskus Lake Recreation Area provides more primitive camping experiences with tent and RV sites but fewer hookups, while Wallace Creek on Enid Lake consistently receives high ratings for its spacious waterfront sites.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region. Summer humidity can be intense, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August, making waterfront sites particularly desirable. Spring brings potential for heavy rainfall and occasional flooding at lower elevation sites, particularly at Sardis Lake campgrounds. As one camper noted, "Mississippi does a great job of maintaining their COE campgrounds. Nice, spacious spots underneath large Pine trees with water views and access to the Lower Lake." Reservation systems vary by location, with many COE sites requiring advance booking during peak summer months. Cell service is generally reliable near University but can become spotty at more remote campgrounds.

Quality and maintenance levels differ significantly between campgrounds managed by different agencies. Corps of Engineers sites typically receive positive reviews for cleanliness and upkeep, with campers praising the level concrete pads and well-maintained facilities. State park campgrounds show more variation in maintenance. One reviewer of Wall Doxey State Park mentioned it was "not the fanciest campground, extremely basic but that's not a problem for me." Fishing opportunities abound throughout the region, with Enid Lake recognized as one of America's top fishing spots for crappie. Wildlife viewing is common, with great blue herons, deer, and various waterfowl frequently spotted. Most campgrounds feature boat ramps and swimming areas, though water levels at some lakes fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access and water recreation options.

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Best Camping Sites Near University, Mississippi (68)

    1. Puskus Lake

    9 Reviews
    University, MS
    12 miles
    Website

    "One bathroom away from the sites in the "day use" area. Mostly fisherman. The lake has motor oil/ fuel running on the surface. The docks nice, wide with bench seating."

    "Self check in is handled at the permit box upon turning off the highway. Be mindful of snakes and you’re usual pests."

    2. Pats Bluff

    7 Reviews
    Sardis, MS
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (662) 563-4531

    $24 - $100 / night

    "It appears they are working on the shoreline, however, they blocked access to the station when they stored the rock."

    "Camp host was very nice Nice level rv pads The lake was beautiful!"

    3. Hurricane Landing

    6 Reviews
    University, MS
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (662) 563-4531

    $24 - $100 / night

    "Easy access to fishing and water sports when the lake is up. When the lake is down, explore the lake bottoms."

    4. Oak Grove - John W. Kyle State Park

    9 Reviews
    Sardis, MS
    15 miles
    Website

    "Mississippi does a great job of maintaining their COE campgrounds. Nice, spacious spots underneath large Pine trees. Water views and access to the Lower Lake."

    "Beautiful views all around."

    5. Wall Doxey State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Waterford, MS
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (662) 252-4231

    "This is a little state park on the edge of the Holly Springs National Forest.

    **Yay: lovely easy hiking, lots of water activities, wooded campsites, simple and pretty."

    "First, I drove in while Mississippi was under a blanket of snow."

    6. Clear Creek - Sardis Lake

    3 Reviews
    University, MS
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (662) 563-4531

    $24 - $100 / night

    "It is on the way out of the campground near the primitive campsites.

    The primitive sites are amazing. Most overlook a small valley/bottom that allow for spectacular views and hiking."

    "Only a short walk from the beach and the bugs aren’t too bad. The campground is also very quiet which is ideal."

    7. John W Kyle State Park — John W. Kyle State Park

    10 Reviews
    Sardis, MS
    16 miles
    Website

    "We’ve stayed here three times and always in the same area away from the lake. Very quiet, friendly neighbors and pretty well maintained."

    8. Beach Point - Sardis Lake

    4 Reviews
    Sardis, MS
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (662) 563-4531

    $8 / night

    "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."

    "Cars stay in the parking lot, and you walk up to your site. Pretty basic. Running water, flushable toilets, no showers. Quiet area.

    Early march, it was raining and I was the only one there"

    9. Prophet Bridge

    2 Reviews
    Water Valley, MS
    14 miles

    10. Wallace Creek

    13 Reviews
    Pope, MS
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (662) 563-4571

    $30 - $50 / night

    "Stock up on supplies because there is not much around. Sites are really nice and spacious with paved driveways and patios. "

    "Enid Lake has an earthen dam and was built for flood control. We enjoyed the nearby North Mississippi Fish Hatchery and Visitors Center."

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Recent Camping Photos near University, MS

75 Photos of 68 University Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near University, MS

277 Reviews of 68 University Campgrounds

Guide to University

Camping near University, Mississippi, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun family trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking Trails: Explore the 4.5-mile hiking trail at T.O. Fuller State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground is adjacent to the Chuckalisa archeological burial mounds that offers tours," making it a great spot for history buffs too.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Wallace Creek, you can enjoy fishing and other water activities. A camper noted, "This is a very popular camping area with very good fishing."
  • Disc Golf: If you enjoy disc golf, Wall Doxey State Park Campground has a nice course. One visitor shared, "Disc golf looked nice and there were two playgrounds."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate clean bathrooms and showers. A review for Hernando Point mentioned, "Bathroom and Shower house felt clean," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the peaceful environment. One reviewer at Tombigbee State Park Campground said, "The campground stayed pretty quiet the whole time."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at EZ Daze RV Park remarked, "From the moment I pulled in I could tell I had made a great choice."

What you should know

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds require reservations, while others are first-come, first-served. For example, Graceland RV Park & Campground requires you to call for reservations, as there’s no online option.
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially near wetlands. A camper at T.O. Fuller State Park Campground noted, "The downside is they are near wetlands so mosquitoes are prevalent."
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have unpaved or poorly maintained roads. A visitor at Chewalla Lake Recreation Area mentioned, "The roads inside the campground were atrocious."

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Bikes and Games: If you have kids, consider bringing bikes and games. A review for Hernando Point suggested, "If you have kids you may want to bring bikes, games, and other things to do."
  • Choose Campsites Wisely: Look for sites that offer more privacy. One camper at Trace State Park Campground noted, "The sites on the loop seemed to afford no privacy."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to plan activities ahead of time. A visitor at Wall Doxey State Park Campground mentioned, "There were a lot of gnats on the sink counter but something I would expect from outdoor bathrooms."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at EZ Daze RV Park mentioned, "Full hook up, 50 amp site was $70."
  • Look for Level Sites: Many RVers prefer level sites for easier setup. A camper at Wallace Creek said, "Beautiful level RV pads with good amenities."
  • Be Aware of Surroundings: Some campgrounds are in less desirable areas. A visitor at Graceland RV Park & Campground noted, "Neighborhood around the park and Graceland is pretty run down."

Camping near University, Mississippi, has its unique charm and challenges. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near University, MS?

According to TheDyrt.com, University, MS offers a wide range of camping options, with 68 campgrounds and RV parks near University, MS and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near University, MS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near University, MS is Puskus Lake with a 4-star rating from 9 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near University, MS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near University, MS.

What parks are near University, MS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near University, MS that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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