Camping options surround Wiggins, Mississippi in the De Soto National Forest region, where pine forests and small lakes create natural camping environments. Summer temperatures regularly reach into the 90s with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Primitive camping areas offer alternatives to developed campgrounds for those seeking more secluded pet friendly camping near Wiggins.
What to do
Fishing access: Lake Perry Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities with most sites offering lake views. According to a visitor, "The host, Joey, will go out of his way for you" with fishing being the primary attraction at this Lake Perry Campground.
Water activities: Children can enjoy the water slides at Flint Creek during summer months. As one camper notes, "The water park has a ton of slides and will keep kids young and old entertained sliding down the hill into the lake" at Flint Creek Waterpark.
Disc golf: Paul B. Johnson State Park features two complete disc golf courses for outdoor recreation beyond swimming and hiking. A visitor mentioned, "Located on a massive lake and two 18 hole disc golf courses" making this an excellent option for active campers seeking variety.
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Many sites at Flint Creek back directly to the water, offering convenient beach access. One camper shared: "The back of the site backs up to the lake, with plenty of beach to fish or hangout. This site would be perfect during the summer if you wanted to swim."
Spacious sites: Big Biloxi Recreation Area provides room between campsites for increased privacy. A reviewer noted, "The sites are large and level with lots of distance between you and your neighbor. It's very easy to access off Hwy. 49 but seems very remote and secluded" at Big Biloxi Recreation Area.
Natural surroundings: Primitive camping at Airey Lake offers a more rustic experience within the forest. A camper described it as "Nice, quiet, free campground... The area is beautiful with lots of trails and a lake" at Airey Lake Recreation Area.
What you should know
Bathhouse conditions: Bathroom facilities vary widely between campgrounds, with many showing signs of age. At Paul B. Johnson, one visitor cautioned, "Doesn't look like the park had had proper maintenance in 15-20 years" at Paul B. Johnson State Park Campground.
Security considerations: Many campgrounds lack gated security. At Airey Lake, a camper mentioned, "This campground has no security & is not locked at night. Campsites with firepits available on a first come, first serve basis."
Site leveling: Be prepared with leveling blocks at certain campgrounds. At Paul B. Johnson, a camper noted about site 141: "The only issue I had with the spots were they were all uneven, but somehow I was able to level my 37' travel trailer on the first try without any leveling aids."
Tips for camping with families
Waterpark timing: Plan your visit to coincide with waterpark operations if that's a key attraction. One visitor advised, "They do have a water park however it closes the day after Labor Day and reopens for the summer."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Keep cameras ready for animal sightings throughout the area. A camper at Big Biloxi shared, "We enjoyed watching geese and ducks on Geiger Lake in the morning" while camping with family.
Splash pad access: For younger children, Paul B. Johnson offers alternatives to lake swimming. A visitor highlighted, "There is a splash pad, lake swimming, and several picnic areas near the visitor center that would be awesome for kids and families when the weather is warmer" at Wiggins Campground & RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup spacing: At some campgrounds, water and electrical connections may be widely spaced. One RVer at Paul B. Johnson mentioned, "The connections were quite spread out with the water pretty far back from the other connections at this site (we needed two water hoses)."
Site selection: Choose newer numbered sites for more level pads. According to a camper, "Lower numbered sites are older with newer sites being those in the 100s. The newer sites are more level and have concrete pads instead of asphalt pavement."
Monthly stays: For extended stays near Wiggins with pets, consider Magnolia Sands. A long-term camper shared, "Open year round and monthly rates are available. The park is 40 miles north of Gulf Port and Biloxi so finding some Gulf beaches is easy" at Magnolia Sands RV Park.
