Northern Mississippi's forested hills and waterways offer several camping options near Waterford. The region's gentle terrain includes rolling hills at elevations between 300-500 feet, with numerous lakes created through damming projects in the mid-20th century. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Puskus Lake, you'll find good bank fishing and boat access. "We've frequented this small space since childhood. It's very well remote off of HWY 30 in the Holly Springs National Forest," notes Justin Y., who appreciates the well-maintained fishing spots.
Disc golf courses: Wall Doxey State Park Campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course through pine forests. Brandon R. shares, "The highlight for us is the disc golf course that winds through the pine forest," though he warns about ticks during warmer months.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer hiking paths through pine and hardwood forests. At Wall Doxey, Christine S. reports, "Camped 4days/3nights. Really nice wooded sites. Water and Electric on site." The park's trail system loops around the lake and through surrounding woodlands.
Water activities: Many campgrounds provide lake access for paddling. At Chewalla Lake Recreation Area, Josh G. recommends, "The shaded footpaths make walking the trails on a hot day still enjoyable. Quiet, low humidity, and plenty of camp sites to choose from make this location a great place to unplug and relax."
What campers like
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the reasonable rates at national forest campgrounds. At Puskus Lake, Dexter I. notes, "All the campsites have picnic tables, metal fire rings and metal poles for hanging your lantern. The campground sits in a nicely forested area just above the lake."
Privacy between sites: Many campers mention the spacing between sites as a positive feature. At Hurricane Landing, Steve G. observes, "Sites on the back side of the loop are spaced out much more nicely than those on the front. All sites have a parking spot."
Lakefront views: Several campgrounds offer sites with lake views. At Pats Bluff, Chris P. recommends, "Around 3 or 4 spots with the best Lake views. Like no other at Sardis. One sweet spot I believe it is lot 16. Lake views on 3 sides of the camper."
Seasonal events: Wall Doxey State Park hosts special seasonal activities. Fred S. shares, "We were invited to the halloween get together at the park. And we had no idea it was such a big deal... Every camp site had wonderful decorations and the kids had such a blast."
What you should know
Varying maintenance levels: Campground conditions can vary significantly. At Oak Grove - John W. Kyle State Park, Laurie H. reports, "Most bathrooms are closed due to a storm 4 years ago. Not well maintained and no one around to help with registration."
Limited amenities: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. At Puskus Lake, Natalee F. advises, "Bathrooms are what you can expect from a small campground, bring your own TP. The water spout did not work on my visit."
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Chewalla Lake is typically open from mid-March to mid-November, while others operate year-round with reduced services in winter.
Safety considerations: Some campers report concerns at less-developed sites. Regarding Hurricane Landing, Elizabeth S. shares, "I ended up leaving early because of a creepy experience with a man who made me feel uncomfortable…even unsafe."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hurricane Landing offers dedicated play areas for children. Steve G. mentions, "There is a great little playground for little ones. Easy access to fishing and water sports when the lake is up."
Educational opportunities: Multiple campsites near Waterford, Mississippi provide nature exploration. At Puskus Lake, Alex B. notes there's "a drainage site that turns into a stream with a nice little 'hole' to swim or fish in."
Tick prevention: When camping with kids in warmer months, prepare for insects. Brandon R. warns about Wall Doxey: "If you are camping here anytime during the warmer months, be ready to pick ticks off of everyone!"
Wildlife viewing: Families can spot local wildlife at several campgrounds. Orita I. shares her Wall Doxey experience: "We saw a momma dear and her baby cross the road. Lots of trees and leaves everywhere."
Tips from RVers
Site selection challenges: At Graham Lake, Steve G. advises, "No hookups. Nothing. But, it is a free campground so what can you say. Large rigs are a no go I would think, as access can be tight."
Leveling considerations: Many campsites require leveling equipment. At Wall Doxey, Orita I. notes, "Most of them are not leveled. Water and electric hookups."
Dump station availability: Check if dump stations are operational before arrival. At Pats Bluff, Rick G. reports, "Recently added sewer to upper sites to go along with current 50amp and water hookups."
Big rig accessibility: Some campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs. At Pats Bluff, Rick G. confirms, "Concrete pads were spacious for just about any size rig."
