Felder Campground

In the heart of Southwest Mississippi, there exists a place that transcends the typical definition of a campground. Felder Campground, located in Summit, is not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it is a profound historical and spiritual landmark, deeply woven into the fabric of Mississippi's religious heritage. For generations of Mississippians, this site has been a cornerstone for faith, fellowship, and family gatherings. This article is designed specifically for our local community, offering an engaging, informative, and factual look at what makes Felder Campground a truly unique and cherished destination. We understand that for many, finding a place that offers both recreation and spiritual nourishment is invaluable, and Felder Campground certainly fits that description.

Established in 1843, Felder Campground boasts an incredible 170 years and more of history, making it one of the oldest ongoing Methodist camp meeting sites in the United States. It was originally called Gatlin's Camp Ground on the Bogue Chitto River and later moved to its present location at Topisaw Creek in 1845. This deep historical root means that visitors aren't just engaging with a campground; they are stepping into a living legacy, a place where countless "souls have been saved," and a profound sense of community has flourished over nearly two centuries. It's a place where tradition meets renewal, and where the values of faith, family, and fellowship are celebrated yearly.

We'll delve into the campground's serene location near Summit, discuss the unique "services" it offers—which extend far beyond typical camping amenities—and highlight the special features that make it such a beloved and welcoming destination. While traditional "promotions" in the commercial sense may not apply, we'll guide you on how to connect with this special place. Finally, we’ll provide essential contact information and explain why Felder Campground is not just suitable, but truly significant for locals seeking a spiritual retreat, a family tradition, or simply a quiet place of reflection in the Mississippi landscape.

Felder Campground is nestled at 1061 Campground Rd, Summit, MS 39666, USA. This address places it in Pike County, a rural yet accessible area of Southwest Mississippi. While Summit is a smaller town, it offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, characteristic of the state's charming countryside.

Accessibility to Felder Campground is generally straightforward for those traveling by personal vehicle. Summit is located near major state routes, providing reasonable connectivity to larger towns like McComb to the south and Brookhaven to the north. Interstate 55, a primary north-south artery through Mississippi, is also within a manageable driving distance, making the campground accessible from various parts of the state. The address on "Campground Road" itself suggests a dedicated and easily identifiable path leading to the site, often implying a degree of seclusion that enhances the peaceful atmosphere.

Given its historical nature as a camp meeting site, the focus of the location is on creating an environment conducive to spiritual gathering and community. The surrounding area in Pike County offers a taste of rural Mississippi, with natural landscapes and a slower pace of life. While amenities in Summit itself are those of a small town (local stores, gas stations), the primary draw of Felder Campground is its intrinsic purpose and atmosphere, rather than proximity to extensive commercial offerings. For those seeking a quiet retreat rooted in tradition, the location provides the perfect backdrop, away from urban distractions, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

Felder Campground operates differently from typical commercial campgrounds, as its primary purpose revolves around its long-standing annual "camp meetings." Therefore, the "services" it offers are uniquely tailored to facilitate these spiritual gatherings and communal living during these times. Based on historical accounts and current information, here's what visitors can expect:

• Seasonal Accommodations: During the annual camp meeting, the campground provides various forms of accommodation. This includes traditional "tents" (which often refer to the closely packed, front-gabled bungalows or "frame tents" used by families for generations), and possibly more modern cabins. These are set up to allow families to stay on-site for the duration of the meetings.
• Worship Facilities: A central "tabernacle," which was notably rebuilt in 1881 and expanded in 1898, serves as the main venue for religious services. There is also a 1957 brick church on the grounds. These facilities are integral to the camp meeting experience.
• Communal Gathering Spaces: Beyond the tabernacle, the campground provides spaces for fellowship and communal meals, fostering the "family atmosphere" that is a hallmark of the camp meeting.
• Scheduled Spiritual Programs: The core service during camp meetings includes daily worship services (morning devotional, midday, and evening worship), Bible studies, and class meetings led by guest preachers and religious leaders.
• Children and Youth Activities: The camp meetings include dedicated programs for children and youth, ensuring that all age groups are engaged in age-appropriate spiritual and fun activities.
• Basic Utilities (During Events): While not explicitly detailed for individual sites outside of the main event, the functioning of a camp meeting implies necessary access to basic utilities like water and potentially electricity for the communal areas and accommodations during the event period.

It is important to understand that Felder Campground is not a year-round commercial campground with daily rentals. Its services are primarily focused on supporting its annual, multi-day camp meeting event. Therefore, interested individuals should inquire directly about availability and specific offerings for these special times.

Felder Campground's unique identity is shaped by its profound history, spiritual focus, and the communal experience it fosters. Here are its key features and highlights:

• Rich Historical Significance (170+ Years): Established in 1843, Felder Campground is "the oldest ongoing Methodist camp meeting in Mississippi." This deep history means that visitors are participating in a tradition that spans generations, connecting with a profound past where "MANY souls have been saved." The site includes a monument marking its centennial in 1945.
• Annual Camp Meetings: The central feature is its yearly "campmeeting," typically lasting 8-10 days, usually in July. This event draws people from across Mississippi and even "from 14 states," signifying its widespread impact and importance. It's described as a "renewal" and "like revival," emphasizing its spiritual depth.
• Strong Sense of Community and Family: Reviews consistently highlight the "wonderful folks, moving worship, and welcoming atmosphere." It's described as having a "huge family atmosphere," akin to a "family reunion for the church." This welcoming and inclusive environment is a major draw for attendees.
• Unplugged and Distraction-Free Environment: The camp meeting is seen as a way for families to "spend time together, unplugged and without any distractions," promoting genuine connection and spiritual focus.
• Historic Tabernacle and Structures: The grounds feature a "massive open-sided pyramidal-roofed tabernacle," originally built in 1881 and expanded in 1898, where services take place. The "closely packed frame tents" (bungalows) create a semicircle around the tabernacle, preserving a historic layout. The foundation of the original frame church also remains.
• Generational Attendance: Many "Felder descendants still attend meetings here each July," showcasing the strong generational ties and enduring legacy of the campground. Attendees often include those who grew up attending the camp meetings.
• Focus on Spiritual Growth: With daily Bible studies, worship events, and engaging guest preachers, the campground's core highlight is its dedication to spiritual enrichment and the "revival of the Holy Spirit."
• Natural Setting: Mature water oaks draped with Spanish moss shade the grounds, providing a serene and beautiful backdrop for reflection and fellowship. The campground is situated near Topisaw Creek.

Felder Campground is not simply a place to stay; it is an experience rooted in faith, history, and community, offering a unique spiritual retreat unlike typical commercial campgrounds.

Given its primary function as a historic religious camp meeting site rather than a commercial campground, Felder Campground does not typically offer "promotions or special offers" in the traditional sense of discounts or packages for transient stays. Its focus is on facilitating the annual camp meeting and providing a spiritual home for its attendees.

Instead of commercial promotions, the "offer" of Felder Campground is its open invitation to participate in its rich spiritual and communal tradition. Attendance at the camp meeting, including the various services and activities, is generally open to all who wish to participate. Accommodations during the camp meeting are often handled through long-standing family associations or by contacting the campground management for availability during that specific time.

To learn more about how to attend the annual camp meeting, what arrangements are available for lodging during that period, or how to get involved, prospective visitors should directly contact the campground. They can provide details on the schedule of events, any specific requirements for staying on-site during the camp meeting, and how to become part of this historic tradition.

To learn more about Felder Campground, its rich history, the annual camp meeting, or any specific arrangements for attendance and lodging during these special events, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1061 Campground Rd, Summit, MS 39666, USA
• Phone: (601) 876-4151
• Mobile Phone: +1 601-876-4151

Direct contact with the campground's representatives is the best way to get accurate and up-to-date information regarding their events, facilities, and how you can participate in their long-standing traditions.

For residents of Mississippi, particularly those in the Southwest region, Felder Campground in Summit is more than just a place to visit; it’s a living testament to faith, history, and community, making it uniquely suitable for locals. Its deep roots, stretching back to 1843, resonate with Mississippians who value heritage and tradition. The annual camp meetings offer a powerful opportunity for spiritual renewal and a return to simpler, more connected times, which is a powerful draw in today's fast-paced world.

The overwhelming sentiment from visitors points to a "wonderful folks, moving worship, and welcoming atmosphere." This "huge family atmosphere" ensures that newcomers are embraced, making it feel less like a temporary stay and more like joining an extended family reunion. For families seeking an "unplugged" experience where children and youth have dedicated activities that combine fun with spiritual growth, Felder Campground provides a rare and valuable environment. It offers a chance to step away from daily distractions and focus on faith, fellowship, and quality time together.

While it operates differently from commercial campgrounds, its primary purpose as a spiritual retreat makes it incredibly relevant for Mississippians looking for deep meaning and connection. The quiet, serene setting, shaded by mature oaks, offers a peaceful backdrop for reflection. For those who cherish historical sites, value strong community ties, and seek an enriching spiritual experience, Felder Campground is not just a suitable option, but an essential part of Mississippi's cultural and religious landscape, inviting generations to continue a cherished tradition.