Forestry Department

Are you a Mississippi local yearning for a refreshing escape into nature? Look no further than the Forestry Department campground, nestled right here in Holly Springs! This beloved local spot offers a fantastic opportunity to unwind, reconnect with the outdoors, and create lasting memories without having to travel far from home. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the joys of sleeping under the stars, the Forestry Department campground provides a welcoming and scenic environment for all.

Here in Mississippi, we cherish our natural landscapes, and the Forestry Department campground exemplifies the beauty and tranquility our state has to offer. It's a place where you can trade city sounds for the rustling of leaves and the gentle lapping of water, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation. Imagine waking up to the sounds of local birds, enjoying a cup of coffee amidst lush greenery, and spending your days exploring the wonders of the Holly Springs area. This campground is more than just a place to park your tent or RV; it's an experience designed to help you relax and rejuvenate.

The Forestry Department campground is part of the larger Holly Springs National Forest, a true gem in north-central Mississippi. This area is renowned for its sparkling small lakes, picturesque upland hardwoods, and diverse pine forests. It's a testament to the natural heritage of our state, offering a peaceful retreat that often surprises even long-time residents with its hidden beauty. The forest management actively works to preserve native communities and restore ecosystems, ensuring that this precious resource remains vibrant for generations to come. This commitment to conservation only enhances the camping experience, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in a healthy and thriving natural environment.

This local campground serves as a gateway to exploring the broader Holly Springs National Forest, which encompasses roughly 155,000 acres within a larger mosaic of private lands. This means you're surrounded by ample space to explore and enjoy the serene Mississippi landscape. It's truly a public treasure, offering a range of activities that cater to various interests and ensuring there's always something new to discover just a short drive from home.

The Forestry Department campground is conveniently located at 632 MS-178, Holly Springs, MS 38635, USA. This prime location places it right within the Holly Springs National Forest, making it easily accessible for residents across Northern Mississippi and beyond. Getting here is straightforward, allowing for a stress-free journey into your outdoor adventure. From the intersection of State Routes 4 and 7 in Holly Springs, you'll simply take State Route 4 east for about 1.4 miles until you see the Chewalla Lake sign. From there, bear right and continue for approximately 5.7 miles until you reach the Chewalla Lake Recreation Area sign (Forest Route 611 - Chewalla Lake Road).

The proximity to Holly Springs means campers have easy access to local amenities and services should they need them, striking a perfect balance between a wilderness experience and convenient access to town. This accessibility makes it an excellent choice for families with children, as well as those who appreciate being close to essential services while still feeling fully immersed in nature. The routes leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, ensuring a smooth arrival for all types of vehicles, including RVs.

• Tent camping sites: Dedicated areas perfect for pitching your tent and enjoying a traditional camping experience.
• RV camping sites: Accommodations for recreational vehicles, with some sites offering electric and water hookups.
• Picnic tables at each site: Convenient for outdoor dining and meal preparation.
• Fire rings at each site: Ideal for campfires, cooking, and enjoying evenings under the stars.
• Flush toilets: Modern restroom facilities for your comfort.
• Hot showers: Available for campers to freshen up after a day of outdoor activities.
• Drinking water: Accessible water sources throughout the campground.
• Boat ramps: Providing easy access to Chewalla Lake and Puskus Lake for boating enthusiasts.
• Playground: A dedicated area for children to enjoy.
• Self-pay station: For convenient payment of camping fees.
• Designated recreation areas: Including Chewalla Lake Recreation Area and Puskus Lake Recreation Area, which offer additional amenities and activities.

• Scenic lakeside camping: Many sites offer beautiful views of Chewalla Lake and Puskus Lake, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
• Diverse natural surroundings: The campground is set within a heavily wooded area of pine and hardwoods, including sweet gum and oak, providing a lush and beautiful backdrop.
• Dogwood tree displays: In the spring, the abundance of dogwood trees creates a stunning floral display, while in the fall, the changing leaves offer vibrant colors.
• Hiking trails: Access to a network of trails for various skill levels, including the two-mile Pine Mountain Trail and the 1.7-mile Virginia Pine Trail, offering opportunities for both foot and mountain biking. The Lakeside Trail also provides access to a 14-mile West Chewalla Lake trail network.
• Fishing opportunities: Both Chewalla Lake (260 acres) and Puskus Lake (90 acres) are excellent for fishing, with species like smallmouth bass, bream, and crappie. Puskus Lake even hosts an annual Fishing Rodeo.
• Boating access: Both motorized and non-motorized boating are permitted on the lakes, with "no-wake" policies on both Chewalla and Puskus Lakes ensuring a calm environment.
• Swimming beach: Chewalla Lake Recreation Area features a sandy beach perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Wildlife viewing: The healthy forest ecosystem provides excellent habitat for a variety of resident and migratory wildlife, making it a prime spot for bird-watching and spotting local animals.
• Historical significance: Chewalla Lake was once the location for Indian ceremonial burial mounds, with one reconstructed mound offering insight into past cultures.
• Quiet and tranquil setting: Particularly at Puskus Lake, the atmosphere is known for being peaceful and secluded, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle.

While specific, ongoing promotions are not publicly advertised for the Forestry Department campground, it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal discounts or special events directly with the Forestry Department. State and National Forests often have programs throughout the year, especially during off-peak seasons, that might offer reduced rates or unique experiences. For instance, sometimes non-electric sites or even sites with hookups might be offered at a free or reduced rate during weekdays, as noted in some past reviews for similar sites within the region. Keep an eye on the official Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website or contact the Holly Springs Ranger District for the most up-to-date information on any potential deals or upcoming events.

Additionally, for those who frequent multiple campgrounds or participate in outdoor activities across the state, exploring broader Mississippi state park passes or national forest passes might offer overall savings. These passes often provide discounted entry or camping fees at various locations throughout the year, making them a worthwhile investment for frequent outdoor enthusiasts.

For more information or to inquire about reservations, you can contact the Forestry Department campground directly.

Address: 632 MS-178, Holly Springs, MS 38635, USA

Phone: (662) 252-4531

Mobile Phone: +1 662-252-4531

Please note that some users have reported difficulties reaching the facility by phone. If you encounter this, it's recommended to consult the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Holly Springs National Forest or the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks for alternative contact methods or online reservation systems, which are often available for public campgrounds. For the Holly Springs Ranger District specifically, you might also try contacting them at 1000 Front Street, Oxford, Mississippi 38655-4915, with a phone number of (662) 236-6550, as this is the administrative office for the area.

For those of us living in Mississippi, the Forestry Department campground in Holly Springs offers an unparalleled opportunity to embrace the natural beauty and tranquility of our own backyard. This isn't just a destination for out-of-state visitors; it's a vital local resource that provides a convenient and enriching outdoor experience for families, solo adventurers, and groups alike. Its location within the Holly Springs National Forest means you don't have to travel far to feel completely immersed in nature, making it perfect for spontaneous weekend trips or planned family vacations that fit easily into a busy schedule.

The variety of activities available—from serene lakeside fishing and boating on Chewalla and Puskus Lakes to exploring miles of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails—ensures that there's something to appeal to every member of the family. Imagine teaching your kids to fish, sharing stories around a crackling campfire, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet that only a deep immersion in nature can provide. The presence of amenities like flush toilets, hot showers, and playgrounds makes camping comfortable and accessible, even for those who might be new to the outdoor lifestyle.

Furthermore, supporting local natural resources like the Forestry Department campground contributes to the ongoing conservation efforts that preserve Mississippi's unique ecosystems. By choosing to camp here, you're not only enjoying the present but also helping to ensure that these beautiful environments remain healthy and accessible for future generations of Mississippians. The sense of community and the connection to our state's rich natural heritage are invaluable aspects of visiting a place like this.

In essence, the Forestry Department campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation to rediscover the simple joys of the great outdoors, right here in the heart of Mississippi. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t need to cross state lines to find adventure and relaxation. Come and experience the wonders of Holly Springs National Forest and see for yourself why this campground is such a cherished spot for locals seeking a genuine connection with nature.