Cabin camping opportunities spread across the Water Valley region, with most options located within 30-40 miles of town. The area sits at approximately 390 feet elevation and experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August. Seasonal considerations affect cabin availability, with winter months (December-February) typically offering more vacancy at lower rates than peak summer periods.
What to do
Disc golf at Wall Doxey State Park: The park features a complete course winding through pine forest. "The highlight for us is the disc golf course that winds through the pine forest," notes one visitor, though they warn that during warmer months "be ready to pick ticks off of everyone" due to the pine trees.
Fishing at Enid Lake: George P. Cossar State Park offers excellent lake access with various fishing spots. "Lakeside sites would allow for boat pull-up within view," mentions a reviewer who visited in April 2021. The park provides multiple locations for shore fishing or boat launching.
Miniature golf: Small courses available at multiple parks for family recreation. A visitor at George P. Cossar notes, "They also have disc golf, but I don't play so I can't offer an opinion on the condition of that," while mentioning "a bare bones mini golf that would probably entertain very young children" in the day use area.
What campers like
Lakefront views: Eagle Point Primitive Campground offers exceptional water vistas. "The campground is located in a beautiful spot on a peninsula with great views of Grenada lake at both sunrise and sunset," writes one camper who visited in September 2021. The sites feature marble picnic tables positioned for optimal viewing.
Quiet off-season stays: Winter and spring months provide more peaceful experiences at most area campgrounds. "Small campground attached to a public use park. Gated after dark with older but usable bathrooms and showers," notes a reviewer about Howard Stafford Park, adding "you can hear cows in the distance from across the lake."
Swimming areas: Several parks maintain designated swimming zones during summer months. A visitor to Eagle Point notes, "To either side of it, there is a swimming area in the day use area and at the boat launch/swimming beach." Access to these areas is typically included with camping fees.
What you should know
Maintenance varies significantly: John W Kyle State Park and others show signs of deferred upkeep. "This time, we'll, it was pretty ugly around here. Looks like it has been weeks since the grass was cut. Talking to another camper, he said this park is known for never getting mowed," reports a June 2021 visitor.
Limited shower facilities: Not all campgrounds offer shower access. "The restroom has flush toilets, but no showers. You can go to one of the other many Corps of Engineers campgrounds nearby to shower," mentions a visitor to Eagle Point Primitive Campground.
Varying site conditions: Campsite quality differs even within the same park. A visitor to George P. Cossar advises, "Definitely, stay only in Yocona Ridge as the other section is in complete disrepair. MS really needs to fund their state parks better so they can get the maintenance needed."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Trace State Park offers family-friendly recreation areas. "We loved the park. Great for walking our dogs," states a reviewer who visited in October 2024, noting the park's suitability for family activities despite mentioning "the only issue was the poor road maintenance in getting to our campsite."
Budget-friendly options: Many state parks offer cabin accommodations at reasonable rates. Howard Stafford Park provides affordable stays, with one visitor noting, "Can't beat the price at $22/night. We stopped in for a night in our teardrop trailer on our way farther up north," adding that "Tupelo is 30 minutes away with the Elvis Birthplace museum and other attractions."
Limited food services: Pack all necessary supplies before arrival. "There's a gas station at the entrance to the park for snacks and ice," mentions a Howard Stafford Park visitor, highlighting the lack of comprehensive food options at most campgrounds in the region.
Tips from RVers
Site length limitations: Howard Stafford Park has specific constraints. "The rv pads are very short.an uneven," notes a visitor who stayed in August 2021, though they still rated the park highly, adding it was "very clean" with a "very friendly camp host."
Dual sewer connections: Serenity RV Park offers convenient hookup options. "There are two sewer connections on both cement and gravel sites, which is a nice convenience," reports a March 2025 visitor, noting "the pad was spacious, providing ample room for our 40' fifth wheel and F-450 truck."
Water pressure considerations: Bring regulators if needed. The same Serenity RV Park visitor reported, "The water pressure was adequate at around 40 psi," which works for most RV systems but may require adjustment for sensitive equipment.
