Primitive tent camping near University, Mississippi offers several budget-friendly options within a 30-minute drive. The Holly Springs National Forest contains small, rustic campgrounds with limited amenities but significant privacy. Winter temperatures in the region typically range from 30-50°F, while summer brings high humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Puskus Lake, campers can fish from the shoreline or docks. "They do have nice docks over the water however to hang out on," notes reviewer Kim N. The lake is stocked with bass, bream and catfish.
Hiking trails: Puskus Lake offers walking trails around the campground. "There are 2 trails you can walk on around the campsite but they only equal about 5 miles and are not maintained very well in some areas although they are flat and easy to explore," according to Kim N. These trails provide access to the surrounding forest.
Swimming access: Eagle Point Primitive Campground offers two designated swimming areas. "To either side of it, there is a swimming area in the day use area and at the boat launch/swimming beach," shares CJ W. The beach areas become busy during summer weekends but remain quiet on weekdays.
Boating options: Multiple lakes near University offer boat ramps for canoes, kayaks and small motorboats. "Fun little quick trip to paddle around in kayak, fish & enjoy great meal over grill," writes david H. about his experience at Puskus Lake. Most primitive camping areas charge $1-2 for day use of boat ramps.
What campers like
Lakefront views: Beach Point at Sardis Lake offers direct water access. "The view and proximity to the water is truly what makes this spot. All sites are tent sites so you have to be parked in the parking lot," writes McKinley L. Sunrise and sunset reflections on the water create memorable camping experiences.
Privacy between sites: Despite being small, Puskus Lake campground offers good site separation. "The campground itself is quite small but the camping spaces have a good amount of room to them so you do not feel like you are on top of each other," notes Kim N. This spacing provides more privacy than many established campgrounds.
Affordable rates: Most primitive campgrounds near University charge minimal fees. "It is also relatively cheap to camp there which is always great!" mentions Kim N. about Puskus Lake. Some sites like Kellys Crossing Campground have become free in recent years, as Heath T. notes: "The fee has been reduced to free, so enjoy but be respectful!"
Level tent pads: Eagle Point features well-constructed tent areas. "There are eight campsites, each with a level gravel pad tent area, picnic table and grill," describes CJ W. These pads help keep tents dry during rain and provide solid footing.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most primitive campgrounds have basic toilets but no showers. At Beach Point, "The bathrooms were…campsite bathrooms. Not the best, not the worst. No locked on stall doors. No soap. But the toilets flushed so there's that," explains Elizabeth S. Bring sanitizer and toilet paper.
Water availability concerns: Water spigots at campgrounds may be unreliable. "The water spout did not work on my visit," reports Natalee F. about Puskus Lake. Campers should bring adequate drinking water supplies, especially during summer months.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close unexpectedly. "We have camped here once, but most of the time it is closed. I am not sure why," shares Steve G. about Elmers Hill. Check with the Army Corps of Engineers or Forest Service before traveling.
Weekend crowding: Weekends can bring full campgrounds, especially during pleasant weather. "I got there at about 3pm and was the first there but by nightfall every site was full," recalls Natalee F. about Puskus Lake. Thursday arrival improves chances of securing preferred sites.
Tips for camping with families
Best kid-friendly sites: Eagle Point offers features suitable for families. "The campground is located in a beautiful spot on a peninsula with great views of Grenada lake at both sunrise and sunset. The tent pads are nice and each camp has a grill and a nice marble picnic table," describes Harrison T. The swimming beaches provide safe water access.
Insect preparation: Flies and mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. "The flies!! They were so so bad! And bighty!! My poor dogs were covered in flies, as were we," warns Elizabeth S. about Beach Point. Pack insect repellent and consider head nets during summer months.
Wildlife awareness: Several campgrounds report wildlife encounters. "At 2am I hear barking and one of my dogs busts through my tent. I go out there and there is a pack of wild dogs scouring the campsite," shares L F. at Eagle Point. Keep food secured and make noise when walking at night.
Trash disposal: Pack out all trash as facilities may be limited. Elizabeth S. notes finding "literally a case's worth of Coors beer bottle caps" at her Beach Point campsite from previous campers. Bring extra bags for trash collection.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most primitive campgrounds near University have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Graham Lake, "Large rigs are a no go I would think, as access can be tight. If you're in a small to medium travel trailer or a tent, this could work out," advises Steve G. Measure your rig length before attempting access.
Road conditions: Access roads to primitive campgrounds can be rough. "The roads in are horrible," warns Steve G. about Hays Crossing. Small trailers under 20 feet have better success navigating these roads, especially during wet conditions.
Arrival timing: Navigating unfamiliar campgrounds is difficult after sunset. JP A. cautions about Eagle Point: "Do not try to come at night. It is pitch black and steep drop offs." Plan to arrive with several hours of daylight remaining for setup.
