Outdoors enthusiasts often spend time thinking about ideal places for their hunting and fishing trips, and some of the best camping locations can be found in Mississippi. Fortunately for sportspeople in the Southeast, great camping locations in Mississippi are never far away. Whether you’re a hunter or an angler, the state offers wonderful campgrounds that can serve as perfect bases for your outdoor adventures.
Why Mississippi Campgrounds?
We spoke with Michael Jones of Visit Mississippi to understand why the state’s campgrounds are such a great choice for outdoors people. According to Jones, “Mississippi campgrounds are renowned for their affordability, prime locations, and diverse features. Whether you’re looking for serene forests, picturesque lakes, or convenient access to outdoor recreational activities, Mississippi has it all. With 25 State Parks located from the Tennessee state line to the Gulf Coast, we offer a variety of campgrounds catering to different preferences and needs, from primitive campsites to fully equipped RV parks or cabins.”
Jones also emphasized the affordability of camping in Mississippi, noting that “the cost of camping in Mississippi is very affordable. With nightly cabin rentals ranging from $35-$190 and RV pads rates as low as $25-$190, making it an attractive option for both budget-conscious campers and those seeking more luxurious camping experiences. Many campgrounds are strategically located near popular attractions and natural beauty spots, ensuring a fulfilling and enjoyable stay.”
For more information on Mississippi State Parks and their camping options, Jones recommends visiting the Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks website.
Campgrounds in Northern Mississippi for Hunters
The northern parts of Mississippi, especially the eastern regions, offer a landscape that differs from what many people picture when they think of the state. Northeast Mississippi is almost like mountain foothill country, with stunning forests and uplands that are particularly beautiful in the fall when the colors change.
Jones pointed out that hunters in northern Mississippi will find excellent camping opportunities with easy access to prime hunting areas. He mentions that “J.P. Coleman State Park, located on the banks of the Tennessee River, provides a perfect base for hunting expeditions in the Tuscumbia Wildlife Management Area and Divide Section WMA. Trace State Park, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes, offers great hunting opportunities in the Canal Section WMA, John Bell Williams WMA, and Chickasaw WMA.”
Campgrounds in Southern Mississippi for Hunters
Southern Mississippi is well-known for its world-class waterfowl hunting along the Mississippi River, and the river bottoms also produce some very large deer. Simply put, South Mississippi is a hunter’s paradise.
“In the southern part of Mississippi, hunters can take advantage of several excellent campgrounds that provide access to abundant hunting grounds,” says Jones. He highlights “Paul B. Johnson State Park, surrounded by the De Soto National Forest, as an ideal location for hunting a variety of game with easy access to Leaf River WMA and Pascagoula WMA. Percy Quin State Park, with its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings, offers convenient access to prime hunting areas like Caston Creek WMA and Sandy Creek WMA.”
Campgrounds for Anglers on Mississippi Lakes
If there’s a better place than Mississippi for anglers who want to catch truly big crappie, it’s hard to find. The state’s many oxbow lakes in the western parts and the big Tennessee River lakes up north provide excellent fishing for a wide range of species.
Jones emphasized that Mississippi is a haven for anglers, with numerous lakes offering exceptional fishing opportunities. He mentioned that “most every state lake and state park have camping available. Also, many Mississippi lakes are managed by MDWFP and have campgrounds available.”
Several campgrounds stand out for anglers, including Cossar State Park on Enid Lake, known for its excellent bass fishing and record crappie. John W. Kyle State Park on Sardis Lake is another favorite among fishing enthusiasts. J.P. Coleman State Park, located on Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River, also offers great fishing opportunities.
Campgrounds in the Southern/Gulf Coast Region
For anglers looking for a different experience, the Gulf Coast offers fast-paced fishing for species like redfish, speckled trout, flounder, and other saltwater fish. Mississippi provides excellent places to camp while enjoying the coastal breezes.
Jones recommends Buccaneer State Park for anglers interested in exploring the southern/Gulf Coast region of Mississippi. “Buccaneer State Park, located on the Gulf Coast, offers excellent saltwater fishing and a variety of camping options,” he says. This scenic camping area sits right on the Gulf, giving campers easy access to the saltwater and the many varieties of gamefish that can be caught there. Additionally, camping at Buccaneer State Park places visitors close to Biloxi, where they can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, including casinos.
More Information about Camping in Mississippi
For more information about camping in Mississippi, including details on specific campgrounds, amenities, and booking options, readers can visit mdwfp.com. This resource provides comprehensive information to help plan the perfect camping trip in Mississippi’s beautiful outdoors.
