Waterfront camping opportunities surround Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, with options spanning the Jourdan River, Wolf River, and Gulf-facing locations. The region maintains subtropical weather patterns with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations under 20 feet above sea level, making them susceptible to storm surge during hurricane season from June through November.
What to do
Disc golf access: Buccaneer State Park Campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course through wooded terrain. "We came to play disc golf. It was a very nice course. Loved our campsite. It backed up to some woods & had a lot of space," notes Brie M. from Buccaneer State Park Campground.
Riverfront recreation: McLeod Park Campground provides river access with a boat launch and sandy beaches along the Jourdan River. "Our site was right next to boat launch. It was very beautiful. The park is clean. They have a splash pad and playground for the kids," shares Ann H. from McLeod Park Campground.
Casino gaming: Silver Slipper Beachfront RV Park offers direct casino access for adult entertainment. "Good RV parking lot with full hookups. Pads are level and get beautiful sun rises from your camper. Great stop while going to Casino or hanging out in Bay St Louis," explains Billy G.
What campers like
Beach proximity: Bay St. Louis area campgrounds provide easy access to Gulf beaches. "The ocean is right across the highway from the entry to this campground. It is much larger than it looks," reports J B. from Silver Slipper Beachfront RV Park.
Natural surroundings: Creekside Farm Co. offers more secluded camping experiences with limited sites. "This quiet campground is spacious. They limit the number of campers so this really does feel like primitive camping in the woods," explains Alicia L. from Creekside Farm Co..
Walking trails: Several campgrounds feature nature trails for exercise and wildlife viewing. "Walking trails are meticulously maintained and provide a wide variety of walking choices throughout this park. There is a pond surrounded by the trails filled with lily pads that was starting to bloom," describes Charles F. from Bay Hide Away RV Park And Campground.
What you should know
Hurricane impacts: Most campgrounds in the Bay St. Louis area were rebuilt after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. "Everything was rebuilt after Katrina in 2005 and it was done very nicely," notes J B. about reconstruction efforts.
Seasonal insects: Mosquitoes and biting insects can be problematic during warmer months. "The bugs were crazy bad at the beach in the morning and at dusk. Evidently they are worse this year, so just come prepared," advises Ashley S.
Reservation challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Now that they do online cannot get available spots. No update if spot comes available. Great camping spot but to get in almost impossible now," explains Keith about McLeod Park reservation system.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple campgrounds offer water features for children. "There is a water park with a wave pool which is fitting since its Waveland, MS. The bathrooms and showers are extremely nice and it also has a place to do laundry," shares J B.
Playground access: McLeod Park provides playground equipment and a splash pad. "Lots of trees and shade, paved roads for kids to ride bikes, large playground area, some short hiking trails," states Nicole R.
Farm animal interactions: Pearl River WMA - Crawford Landing offers a natural setting without structured activities. "This was a great camp that was just off the main road outside New Orleans. We got there and realized we needed a permit. So we went to Walmart down the road and paid $3 for a wma permit for lousiana," explains Aliyah B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on privacy and shade needs. "The Dyrt to find real feedback on camping near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Several miles of walking paths circle through wooded areas where leashed dogs can exercise," explains Marty D.
Full hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer full hookup options. "Full hook up water 50 amp service and sewage. Bath house are clean. Boat ramps for boats splash pads for kids," notes Keith about facilities.
Pet friendly considerations: Most campgrounds welcome pets with appropriate restrictions. "With less than 50 spaces, this beautiful little park, just 4 miles from beautiful white sand beaches, is tucked away from the roads and surrounded by a wonderful mixed forest of hardwood and pines," describes Charles F. about pet friendly camping near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
