Camping options near McCool, Mississippi include several public campgrounds operated by the National Forest Service and Corps of Engineers. Located in the central part of the state, this area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often reaching the 90s and mild winters with occasional freezing conditions. Many campgrounds close or reduce services between November and March, with camping demand highest during fall when travelers explore the Natchez Trace Parkway.
What to do
Hiking at Little Mountain: Take the mile-long trail at Jeff Busby Campground for significant elevation changes and scenic views. "There is a paved road and hiking trail to a viewpoint. The road is less than a mile and the trail is over a mile and has some good elevation changes," notes Kevin C.
Fishing from shoreline: Cast a line directly from campsites at Choctaw Lake, particularly from sites 3-12 on the smaller lake. "Large hands in the smaller lake. I haven't even had a bite in the larger lake," shares Jonathon B., who finds the smaller lake more productive for fishing.
Disc golf: Look for courses near camping areas for additional recreation. Lynn G. observed that "There is a disc golf course nearby" when staying at Choctaw Lake, making it a good option for campers seeking varied activities.
What campers like
Lake access: Waterfront sites at Choctaw Lake provide direct water entry. "Our site was right off the lake. The scenery was beautiful, it was quiet, the sites are pretty spread out. Camp sites 3-12 is where you want to be," according to Tiffany C.
Social atmosphere: Jeff Busby Campground offers opportunities to connect with fellow travelers due to its layout. "Paved pull through sites are first come first serve. They seem to over lap and lots of folk share the sites," explains Jacqueline A.
Digital disconnection: Limited connectivity provides a true outdoor experience at many area campgrounds. Jonathon B. appreciates that Choctaw Lake offers "No WiFi and very little cell signal, as camping should be," creating a more immersive camping experience.
What you should know
Site configuration challenges: At Jeff Busby, the unusual parking arrangement requires planning. "The way the campground is constructed makes this a unique place to stay. The campsites are very close together causing lots of social interactions. That's the best and worst thing about the campground," Kevin C. reports.
Tent camping limitations: Rocky terrain at some campgrounds creates challenges for tent campers. Gregory H. notes about Leake County Water Park: "Tents cannot be set up on grass; only on their 'tent pads' (jagged rocks). I asked the camp host if any sites had actual tent pads instead of rocks and was told no."
Water access points: Potable water availability varies between campgrounds. At Jeff Busby, campers can find "a single outside faucet at the bathroom for potable water," according to Stacy G., though no water hookups are available at individual sites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Choctaw Lake provides designated swimming areas for children. "Nice little beach for swimming, boating and fishing. All quite clean, water and power at each campsite, great showers," reports Lynn G.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. Tiffany C. mentions that Choctaw Lake has "a playground for kids, a boat dock if you have one, or you can just fish right off your site."
Educational hiking: Take advantage of interpretive trails to engage children in nature learning. "There are a few other similar primitive campsites in the park nearby. Nice and wooded," notes Lynn G. about opportunities at Jeff Busby.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Plan for waste management as facilities are limited. Randy C. cautions about Choctaw Lake: "This is a great place to dump your tanks. Only one problem and we expect it to be resolved soon. The charge is $5.00 but there is no one to pay!"
Site selection for large rigs: Larger RVs have specific site requirements at these rv parks near McCool, Mississippi. "We were in a 41' motorhome and had plenty of room," shares Jeff about his stay at Jeff Busby.
Power considerations: Solar-dependent RVers should consider tree coverage. Stacy G. notes at Jeff Busby: "Large shade trees made for minimal solar power," suggesting backup power sources may be necessary for boondocking.
