If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp in Mississippi, look no further. The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the woods or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.
The Meriwether Lewis Campground at milepost 385.9, on the northern end of the Parkway, has 32 sites. All sites are free and available on a first-come, first served basis. They do not offer electricity, showers, or dump stations. Drinkable water and flush toilets are available on site. Enjoy the Meriwether Lewis site which includes hiking trails, a section of Old Trace, exhibits and picnic areas.
While not widely advertised, the Deer Island Coastal Preserve has verified that camping is allowed, at no charge.
Guide
Out of the way. Decent sized parking lot with boat ramp, picnic tables, and trash cans. Unfortunately it seems like the regulars dont know what the trash cans are for.
Traveler
I wish I wouldn’t known this was only accessible via boat, which in hindsight was obvious from the title lol.
RangerNice big pull thrus all along the camping loop. Great camping with mostly one-nighterz. Stayed two days in early December and had no issues.
The campground is a large loop with about 30 sites. Only one bathroom open but everything was clean and garbage service was excellent.
Walked the loop (about 0.6 miles) several times a day. Our site was about 80 yards from the toilet. Lots of trails through the middle of the loop as a shortcut to the toilet.
Ranger
Came in on a Tuesday in late October and found about 10 campsites occupied, so lots to choose from. The campsite has two adjoining loop roads. The lower loop has a bathroom with flush toilets and sinks.
The campground appears to be very well maintained. There is not much privacy between campsites as there are only a few trees and no shubbery between campsites.
We met two other camping groups that were simply delightful Americans.
TravelerI was really looking forward to this place on my way to Arkansas. However, as soon as I turned into the camping area I was “greeted” by not one but TWO off leash dogs barking and running toward my van (they were not together). Fortunately, I took vinegar spray with me when I took my dog for a walk. It was a useful deterrent when one of the loose dogs ran at us. I yelled to put the dog on leash but of course nobody emerged from the van. On the return trip I made sure to have my spray and body pointed straight toward the dog who was just waiting for me to turn around so he could attack again. If you want a flat spot, a pull through spot, or one that you can’t smell the toilets, get there early! I got there around noon and maybe 15 people were there. By sundown most spots were taken…on a Tuesday. Restrooms toward the entrance were nice with running water and flush toilets.
RangerNice first come free camping location just off the Trace. Grounds seem to be keep up on every time I’ve been there.
GuideNice location just off the Trace! Nice free getaway spot with plenty to do around.
GuideAll campsites had a picnic table, fire ring and a grill which were typical of these free NPS campsites. The bathroom facilities were clean with running non-potable water. All of the fire rings and grills were rusty and some of the wooden picnic tables were falling apart but we were one of a few campers this early in the season, so hopefully they'll be attended to before the summer rush. We picked a pull-thru site and lit a fire in the ring and used our own camp chairs and table for a lovely star filled night.
TravelerWe have spent many nights fishing under the bridge. Haven't camped per se but many people fish the general area. There is parking lot and picnic area by the boat ramp. No amenities and if you want to explore other than the boat ramp area you need AWD or 4WD or it's a pretty good hike. This is more of an overnight fishing/parking/boating area for people passing through who don't require all the amenities of the campgrounds in the area.
ScoutDeer Island is an amazing location to fully appreciate the natural splendor of the Mississippi Gulf Coast! We can join minecraftle game together. 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! This particular excursion involved pedal kayaking, which was a new experience for us. 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. Pedaling was definitely the way to go! It wasn't challenging and allowed us to sit back and relax. It's advisable to bring bug spray as there might be occasional insects. We had a delightful picnic lunch on the island and had a fantastic time overall. I highly recommend considering Happy Daze Kayaking if you're seeking enjoyable activities on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Guide
Big site no fire ring no other camp sites that I have seen
GuideOnly site I see on FSR 526 Big site you could pull through with a bigger camper no fire ring but you can see where they have had a fire
RangerNice primitive grounds with pull-through and back-in options. Gave a 1 in service because it is a first come first serve. It is a terrific spot to stop and sleep. We camped at Natchez Trace Parkway- Rocky Springs in a Fifth Wheel. Didnt get a chance to take photos, we arrived at dark and left early morning.
GuideGot here early early morning, only 1 other slot was taken. Easy to find and park. Great mornings by the water.
ScoutSuper easy to find in the dark even! I enjoyed our overnight stay here. It was packed, felt super safe and just have a easy night. Recommend if you need just a quick little place to rest your head. Thanks Merriweather!
Scout
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. 30Sep23
TravelerThe road you drive on to get here has multiple signs warning that stray bullets may cross. The actual sites are littered with bullet casings and other trash. If it’s rainy or wet the ground turns to red mud you could get stuck in. But it’s free so.
LegendCame in for the night on stopover. All paved spots, flushing toilets with water spots Al around campground. Almost full when I got here at 3pm. So far quite.
TravelerNice campground, toilets were clean and has fresh water
TravelerClean, safe and an overall great place to stop on our way to Memphis. It wasn’t very busy since we were visiting in January. The bathrooms were open and clean!
GuideGreat sites for free! Plentiful, clean & convenient on the Natchez Trace.
ScoutBeen 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. It's up on a little hill which is nice. You have a huge amount of space to go back off the road. I'll update again(11/22)
TravelerReally enjoyed our stay. Several trails to enjoy. Lots of history to learn. Two close waterfalls to hike to. Beautiful area. Will definitely be staying again!
GuideLots of Interpretation signs of the history of merriweather & Chris Columbus. Love to see it. Pleasant; more popping of a campground. Gets busy
LegendThis is one of three free campgrounds that can be found along the Natchez Trace. After visiting all three, this one is by far the nicest. Located at the site of Meriwether Lewis’s death, this campground is steeped in history. There are many great hiking trails around this campground and there are amazing views. Be sure to drive down to the creek and check it out. There were 31 campsites. They are pretty close together and some of them are pretty far from the bathroom. Everything is in good condition and there are trash cans scattered throughout the campsites.
ScoutGreat time great place
TravelerWalk down the Natchez Trace, visit the grave of Meriwether Lewis, all around a good visit. No electric, first come first served free campground, show up early and you're good to go. Beautiful park to stay
Mississippi offers a unique experience for those seeking the freedom of dispersed camping, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.
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