Primitive camping sites at Puskus Lake Recreation Area in Holly Springs National Forest offer secluded tent camping less than 20 miles from University, Mississippi. Located at an elevation of 400 feet, the campground provides basic amenities in a forested setting. Water levels in area lakes fluctuate seasonally, with summer drawdowns affecting boat launches and swimming areas.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Wall Doxey State Park features a disc golf course winding through pine forest. "The highlight for us is the disc golf course that winds through the pine forest," notes Brandon R., though he cautions about ticks during warmer months.
Fishing opportunities: Wallace Creek campground sits on Enid Lake with boat ramp access. "The campground is large and well-kept, with over 100 sites, and the sites are very spacious," reports Michael Austin S., who tent camped near the lake and bathrooms.
Hiking and nature observation: Davis Lake Campground offers wildlife viewing and short hiking trails. "Great wildlife! Came here for bird watching. Will return to bike the Tanglefoot Trail," says Lynn G., who visited this recreation area along the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Swimming beach access: Chewalla Lake Recreation Area includes a swimming beach for summer recreation. "The park/recreation area is rustic and not overcrowded. There is a boat ramp and fishing pier for the fishermen/water lovers," explains Shana D., who also noted the paved trail that crosses to an island with a picnic table.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Hernando Point offers lake views with level, paved campsites. "Lots of sites are waterfront. There were lots of trails available, but we didn't have time to explore. Each site has electric and water, but still only $20," reports CJ W.
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds provide adequate spacing between campsites. "Wall Doxey is a well maintained campground. The sites are far enough apart to not feel on top of your neighbor," shares Brandon R. about Wall Doxey State Park Campground.
Night sky viewing: The rural setting around many campgrounds limits light pollution. Davis Lake Campground, located in the Tombigbee National Forest, has "no light pollution making the night sky a spectacular sight to see," according to Stephen & Theresa B.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently mention wildlife sightings as a highlight. "We saw a momma dear and her baby cross the road. Lots of trees and leaves everywhere," shares Orita I. about her experience at Wall Doxey State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal maintenance issues: Some campgrounds have limited maintenance during off-peak periods. "This is a very nice campground in need of a little TLC and more visitors," notes Dexter I. about Puskus Lake, adding that the Forest Service considered removing the campground due to low use.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms are old, but clean. I'm leery of old bathrooms, but I can make this one work," reports Shana D. about Wall Doxey State Park.
Site reservation recommendations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially waterfront sites. "Seems like this is a very popular place. I do see why!" notes Bruce F. about Davis Lake Campground, where they found many sites already booked for the following week.
Bug considerations: Ticks can be problematic in wooded areas during warm months. "If you are camping here anytime during the warmer months, be ready to pick ticks off of everyone!" warns Brandon R. about Wall Doxey State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: John W Kyle State Park and other area campgrounds offer playground facilities. "Yokona ridge has a great playground for kids with the putt-putt golf course a short walk away. 4$+tax per person to play," shares Suzi T. about George P. Cossar State Park.
Avoid certain sites with children: Some campgrounds have safety concerns to consider. "Site 55 should not exist. It was wedged in between two others," cautions Donnie D. about Wallace Creek, adding that local visitors at a neighboring site were "drunk and loud into the wee hours of the morning."
Bring aquatic footwear: Swimming areas may have natural hazards. "The swimming area steps are quite slippery as well and muscle shells are ever present so I would recommend aquatic footwear if you plan on using this area," advises Chris M. about Davis Lake.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates for family outings. "It is also relatively cheap to camp there which is always great!" says Kim N. about Puskus Lake, though she notes you cannot swim in the lake.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: George P. Cossar State Park Campground and other sites may present leveling challenges. "Not all sites are level in fact we had to pass up a couple because of that reason," reports Nancy W. about Wallace Creek, though she notes the campground is "pretty hilly but the roads were easy enough for us to navigate in our 45' RV and tow car."
Water hookup distance: Bring extra hose length for some campgrounds. "The water hook ups are at least 100 foot away from most camp sites, so bring lots of extra hose if you do end up staying here," advises Shana D. about John W Kyle State Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: Research campsite dimensions before arrival. "Do your research on the campsites. Some are pretty short and will not accommodate long rigs," recommends Roscoe's R. about Davis Lake Campground.
Tree clearance considerations: Some campgrounds have tight spacing between trees. "We came in with a 38' RV not much problem with spaces but be aware of trees on both sides of spaces," cautions Orita I. about Wall Doxey State Park, explaining they couldn't use their original assigned site because trees would have prevented opening their slides.
