Dispersed camping near Wiggins, Mississippi offers options for outdoor enthusiasts seeking budget-friendly wilderness experiences. The area features red clay soil terrain with pine forest ecosystems typical of southern Mississippi. Winter temperatures range from 40-60°F, making it a viable year-round camping destination with fewer insects during cooler months.
What to do
Explore solitude options: Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping provides peaceful stays even with minimal preparation. One visitor noted, "Been there once, Going again sometime soon. Stayed in my SUV for 2 nights and didn't see or hear anyone around. Did hear dogs(or coyotes) in the background but nothing happened."
Wildlife observation: Deer Island Dispersed Camping attracts birdwatchers and nature photographers. A camper shared, "Great paddling, quiet camping, lots of birds. Downsides included: casino views on one side, and a lot of litter along the shores."
Waterfront activities: Access to coastal waters provides fishing and paddling opportunities. According to one Deer Island visitor, "The journey from the launch point to the island was just a short and enjoyable few minutes. The owner of the company provided us with valuable insights about the wildlife and ensured we didn't miss anything noteworthy."
What campers like
Affordability: Free camping near Wiggins, Mississippi appeals to budget-conscious travelers. As one camper stated about Camp Shelby, "It's up on a little hill which is nice. You have a huge amount of space to go back off the road."
Weekday visits: Leaf Wilderness Area offers more privacy during less busy periods. A reviewer mentioned, "You just drive and see very clear campsites along the main road."
Quick escapes: The proximity to Biloxi makes Deer Island popular for weekend trips. One visitor remarked, "When the pandemic hit, I hit the road. Drove south to Biloxi, parked, hopped in my kayak, and paddled to Deer Island. It's less than a half-mile off the coast, but far enough away to be left alone."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Finding camping areas requires preparation. One Leaf Wilderness visitor warned, "My GPS said turn left, I looked and there was an old, overgrown, wagon trail. Next to a private residence. WITH NO SIGN. I was afraid I was trespassing!"
Site conditions: Camp Shelby Dispersed Camping varies in cleanliness. A recent visitor reported, "The entire area was littered with burnt trash, animal remains and shell casings. It seems to be more of a shooting range than a camping spot."
Terrain issues: Red clay becomes problematic during rainfall. A camper noted, "If it's rainy or wet the ground turns to red mud you could get stuck in. But it's free so."
Transportation requirements: Some sites require specific access methods. A would-be camper learned, "I wish I wouldn't known this was only accessible via boat, which in hindsight was obvious from the title lol."
Tips for camping with families
Timing considerations: Weekdays provide quieter experiences at Deer Island. A camper observed, "I've been told it gets crowded with parties and boats on weekends, but I didn't see any of that. Just the trash left behind."
Safety awareness: No-cost camping near Wiggins requires vigilance. A Camp Shelby visitor warned, "not a terrible spot if in a pinch."
Guided experiences: Happy Daze Kayaking offers family-friendly access to Deer Island. A satisfied customer shared, "My spouse, a few friends, our teenagers(a group of six) and I decided to embark on a tour with Happy Daze Kayaking in Biloxi, MS, and we were extremely satisfied!"
Tips from RVers
Ground assessment: Check soil conditions before parking larger vehicles. Avoid areas with red clay during wet weather.
Site selection: Choose elevated locations at Camp Shelby. A visitor recommended, "It's up on a little hill which is nice."
Noise factors: Be prepared for unexpected sounds. One Leaf Wilderness camper mentioned, "Due to it being public land, we did hear shooting nearby, not fun. If it weren't for the shooting, this would be a 5 star."
