Camping spots near Walnut Grove, Mississippi offer access to Bienville National Forest's lush pine woodlands with elevations ranging from 300-500 feet. The region receives approximately 55 inches of annual rainfall, creating ideal conditions for the area's abundant waterways and forest ecosystems. Camping options range from full-service RV parks to primitive tent-only locations with varying levels of seclusion.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Roosevelt State Park Campground features bass fishing in a scenic lake setting. One camper reported, "Grew up coming here for the summer to fish, swim, ski and use the water park. It is an older park but with that being said it has many years left of good camping" and noted the park offers hiking trails through wooded areas.
Water activities: Turkey Creek Water Park provides both fishing and swimming options at its reservoir. A visitor shared, "Small area for camping but new area for bringing horses to camp and trail ride. Clean with nice bunk houses. Fishing was good and sunsets amazing."
Hiking and exploring: For those seeking more secluded outdoor experiences, the Bienville National Forest trails connect many camping areas. The terrain features moderate elevation changes with mostly pine forest cover, creating shaded pathways suitable for day hiking from spring through fall.
Family recreation facilities: Yogi on the Lake - Jellystone Pelahatchie offers extensive child-focused activities beyond basic camping. According to a visitor: "Water park is heated which I didn't know and wished we brought swim suits. Had tons of laughs and memories with my family."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Tent campers appreciate the isolation available at forest camping spots. A camper at Shockaloe Base Camp I described, "The ride out is a little ruff. Pack in pack out. There is a restroom and water."
Well-maintained facilities: Roosevelt State Park Campground receives positive reviews for its upkeep. One visitor commented, "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."
Scenic water views: Many campsites offer direct waterfront views. At Coal Bluff Campground, a camper mentioned, "The area is shaded with big beautiful trees and a decent sized pond. Besides the showers needing a fresh coat of paint, I'd definitely stay here again!"
Adequate spacing between sites: Campers appreciate the layout at certain campgrounds. At Goshen Springs, a visitor noted, "Nice large pads and yard with grill," while another mentioned, "Some sites are shady, some sunny, others limited shade."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some camping areas have limited facilities during winter months. A Roosevelt State Park visitor reported, "Pool and slide was closed (probably COVID related??) as were the bath houses."
Campsite variations: Sites within the same campground can differ significantly. One camper at Roosevelt State Park noted, "Some spots are very narrow and drop off as soon as you leave the pad. Spots in the 'older' area seem more spaced out."
Road conditions: Shockaloe Base Camp I Camping and similar forest service sites may require cautious driving. A visitor advised, "The ride out is a little ruff."
Long-term residents: Some campgrounds have significant numbers of permanent residents. A visitor to Coal Bluff noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Leake County Water Park provides family-friendly amenities. A camper described 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."
Kid-friendly campgrounds: For families with young children, campgrounds with dedicated recreational facilities work best. At Yogi on the Lake, a visitor mentioned, "Pool, slides, jumping pad, playground, mini golf, tennis, basketball, planned activities each day for family fun."
Site selection for families: Choose sites with adequate space for multiple tents and play areas. A Roosevelt State Park visitor recommended specific site numbers: "Best spots are in the 14-17 area flatter than others," noting that some other spots have steep drop-offs that could be hazardous for small children.
Swimming options: Campgrounds offer different swimming facilities, some at additional cost. A Roosevelt Park camper shared, "There is swimming (in the lake for free or swimming pool $ plus a water slide) full hookup."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should prepare for varied pad conditions. A Roosevelt State Park visitor advised, "We stayed in site 13 which was right on the lake. The view was beautiful. The spot was really large with plenty of room for tents and hammocks."
Hookup availability: Coal Bluff Park Pearl River Valley Water Supply District provides full hookups in a natural setting. A visitor commented, "Older and newer sites. Wooded and clear sites. Fire pits, Pic nice tables. Pool. bathrooms and showers. Boat ramp. Friendly park rangers."
Overnight options for travelers: Love's RV Hookup in Lake offers convenient overnight stays. According to a traveler, "There are 5 RV sites at this location. They are easy to reserve on Love's website. Once we arrived, we checked in on the link, and poof, the power came on."
Big rig considerations: Some parks accommodate larger RVs better than others. At Goshen Springs, a visitor with a 38-foot gooseneck reported, "The concrete pad was pretty much level. In fact, most sites are really level with minimal effort needed to finish leveling. Electric and water were easily accessible."
