Lake Lincoln State Park Campground near Wesson sits among pine forests in southwestern Mississippi, with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet above sea level and an average summer temperature of 91°F. Campsites in the region typically stay muddy after rain due to the clay-rich soil common throughout this part of Mississippi. While glamping options exist as noted in several locations, traditional tent camping and cabin rentals remain the primary accommodations with few yurt camping options near Wesson, Mississippi.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Lincoln State Park Campground offers bank fishing that visitors report as "exceptional" in spring. "We enjoyed fishing and kayaking on the lake. The campground is very scenic with lake views," noted one visitor. This 550-acre lake is stocked regularly, though some campers mention it could use additional restocking.
Hiking trails: Clear Springs Recreation Area features 17 miles of interconnected trails through the Homochitto National Forest. "Trails are throughout the area, couple of fishing spots, lots of picnic areas with grills and a playground," wrote one camper. The Richardson Creek Trail gets overgrown in summer months, so hikers should check conditions before setting out.
Historical exploration: Grand Gulf Military Park contains Civil War-era structures and artifacts from the once-thriving town of Grand Gulf. "This park is filled with history. Features include a church, mill, old cemetery, observation tower, gun emplacements, rifle pits," explains a visitor. The museum displays provide context about the town's decline from nearly 1,000 residents to just 158 by the Civil War.
What campers like
Spacious lakefront sites: Lake Lincoln campers appreciate the waterfront locations. "Camped very near the water. Sites are a little closer than I usually like but sites are nice and view of lake is great," shared one visitor. Sites 36-40 offer direct lake views, though streetlights at some sites can interfere with stargazing.
Privacy between campsites: Natchez State Park Campground provides well-spaced sites with natural barriers. "Nice spacious sites, mostly level. Large beautiful shade trees. Lake sites available," notes a camper. The park has two camping areas (A and B), with many reporting that area B tends to be better maintained and has more lakefront sites.
Affordable rates: Clear Springs Recreation Area charges just $20-25 per night for sites with utilities. "At $20 a night this place is a steal! Water and electricity at all the sites," reports one visitor. Sites include fire rings with fold-down cast iron grills and level ground suitable for tents.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat makes spring and fall better seasons for yurt camping in Wesson, Mississippi area. "Alligators, fishing looks to be best in spring and fall. Hot in summer," warns a Lake Lincoln camper. July and August temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity.
Wildlife awareness: Several parks report alligator sightings in lakes. At LeFleur's Bluff State Park Campground, a camper noted, "Went for a nice walk this morning and saw a gator," while another mentioned, "I had my morning coffee and watched a 7ft gator swimming and paying us no mind."
Availability patterns: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly on weekends. "Unless you're showing up late Friday or Saturday usually spots are available. Last two times I've been the whole park is full even the primitive site," shared a Clear Springs camper. Holiday weekends see particularly heavy use across all campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Percy Quin State Park, a visitor mentioned, "Great place for the kids to go out and play. Ride bikes etc." The recreation area includes a playground near the day use section rather than within the campground loops.
Swimming areas: Natchez State Park provides designated swimming spots. "Nice playground by the lake," notes a camper. Clear Springs also features "a swimming area in the lake, one side shallow and sandy for smaller swimmers, one side deeper."
Educational opportunities: Grand Gulf Military Park offers historical learning experiences. "This park/campground is about 8 miles west of the town of Port Gibson, near a nuclear reactor," explains a visitor. The museum and historical structures provide learning opportunities about local history, particularly Civil War events.
Tips from RVers
Site selection cautions: At Percy Quin State Park Campground, some sites present leveling challenges. "Percy Quinn is a nice state park on a lake. Be careful selecting your site, some are uneven and the pad sets above ground level," advises an RVer. Sites include sewer hookups, picnic tables, and grills, though not all have designated fire rings.
Access limitations: Clear Springs Recreation Area has size restrictions for larger vehicles. "Not a lot of room for large RV's so check with them. Water and electric available as well as a dump station," cautions an RV camper. The campground has two separate areas, with the lower sites less accessible for longer RVs.
Electrical hookups: Most campgrounds offer electrical service, but amperage varies. "Large state park with 30 sites w/e only on small lake. You are allowed to gather downed wood to use in fire pit," notes a camper at LeFleur's Bluff. Campers needing 50-amp service should confirm availability when making reservations.
