Forestry Department

Mississippi boasts an incredible tapestry of natural landscapes, from its Gulf Coast beaches to its expansive pine forests. For those in the Magnolia State who yearn to connect with nature, whether through the comfort of an RV or the simplicity of a tent, finding the right campground is key to a memorable outdoor experience. The state's public lands, often managed by entities like the Forestry Department, provide invaluable access to these natural treasures, offering a serene escape from the everyday hustle.

Today, we're focusing on a true gem that is managed by the Forestry Department and is often referred to as Turkey Fork Recreation Area, located near Richton, Mississippi. While the direct name given was "Forestry Department" with an address, extensive public data reveals this is the popular Turkey Fork Recreation Area within the National Forests in Mississippi. This area is celebrated for its premier fishing, diverse camping options, and a wide array of water-based activities. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Turkey Fork Recreation Area, helping local users in Mississippi discover what makes this particular campground a fantastic choice for their next outdoor adventure.

Turkey Fork Recreation Area offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the tranquility of the forest while enjoying a variety of recreational pursuits. We'll delve into the specifics of its location and accessibility, the range of services and amenities it provides, and the standout features that make it a favorite among campers and day-use visitors alike. By the end of this overview, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of why this Forestry Department-managed campground is a suitable and appealing option for anyone looking for a well-maintained, activity-rich, and peaceful outdoor experience in rural Mississippi.

Turkey Fork Recreation Area, managed by the Forestry Department, is conveniently located at 825 Wingate Rd, Richton, MS 39476, USA. While the given address is Wingate Road, it's important to note that the primary access point and detailed information often refer to the main entrance for Turkey Fork Recreation Area, which is well-signed within the DeSoto National Forest.

Richton, Mississippi, is a small town in Perry County, offering a peaceful, rural setting. The campground's location within the larger DeSoto National Forest means it is enveloped by natural beauty, including mature oak and cypress trees, providing ample shade and a true forest ambiance. Despite its serene environment, Turkey Fork is quite accessible. It's approximately 21 miles east of Hattiesburg via U.S. Highway 42, making it a reasonable drive for many residents across Southern Mississippi. From Richton itself, visitors would continue east on Highway 42 for about 12 miles to Sandhill, where directional signs for Turkey Fork Recreation Area are typically present.

The road leading into the campground and recreation area is generally well-maintained, allowing for easy access for both RVs and vehicles towing trailers. Public information indicates a large parking area near the boat launch, facilitating ease of use for day visitors. The secluded nature of the campground, nestled within the national forest, ensures a quiet retreat away from the noise and traffic of urban centers, yet it's still close enough to Richton and Hattiesburg for essential supplies and services if needed. This balance of secluded natural beauty and relatively straightforward access makes Turkey Fork Recreation Area an ideal spot for Mississippians seeking both adventure and tranquility.

• RV Campsites with Hookups: Turkey Fork offers 20 RV campsites, each equipped with picnic tables, grills, water, and electrical hookups (30 amp & 20 amp).
• Tent Camping Areas: There are 8 primitive tent camping sites available, each with picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts.
• Bathhouses: The recreation area provides three bathhouses, noted for being clean and offering showers and flush toilets, enhancing comfort for all campers.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is located within the campground loop for RVers.
• Boat Ramp and Floating Dock: For water enthusiasts, there's a boat ramp and a floating dock, facilitating easy access to the lake for boating activities.
• Swimming Areas: Two designated swimming areas are available, perfect for cooling off on warm Mississippi days.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous secluded picnicking sites are available, equipped with tables and grills, some near the beach and shaded. Group picnic shelters are also available for reservation.
• Lake Activities: The 240-acre lake is stocked with bass, crappie, and bluegill, making it a premier fishing destination. Water skiing and other watersports are also popular.
• Hiking Trail: A 0.75-mile hiking trail connects the day-use area to the camping area, offering a winding pathway with forest and lakeside views.
• Day Use Access: Fees cover day-use, picnic area, and boat launch access for visitors not camping overnight.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open year-round, offering flexibility for visits in any season.

• Premier Fishing Lake: The 240-acre stocked lake is a major highlight, renowned for bass, crappie, and bluegill, attracting anglers from across the state.
• Diverse Water Activities: Beyond fishing, the lake supports water skiing, swimming (with two designated areas), and general boating, making it a hub for aquatic recreation.
• Clean & Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers consistently praise the "clean bathrooms with hot water," and the overall "clean" state of the bathhouses and facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Shady & Natural Environment: Nestled among mature trees in the DeSoto National Forest, the campground offers abundant shade and a natural, peaceful setting.
• Variety of Camping Options: With both 20 RV campsites (with full hookups) and 8 primitive tent sites, the area caters to different camping preferences and styles.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Described as having a "nice and friendly atmosphere," contributing to a welcoming environment for visitors.
• Tranquil and Peaceful: Many visitors note the area is "so quiet and peaceful," providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
• On-site Amenities: Includes picnic tables, fire rings/grills at each site, and a dump station for RV convenience.
• Hiking Opportunities: A short, scenic hiking trail provides an enjoyable way to explore the forest and lakeside views.
• Honor System Payment: While a new fee machine is in place, past experiences highlight an honor system, suggesting a trusting and relaxed environment for payment (check current procedures).

As a public recreation area managed by the Forestry Department (specifically within the National Forests in Mississippi), Turkey Fork Recreation Area typically offers standardized fee structures rather than seasonal or promotional discounts commonly found at private campgrounds. However, there are established pricing tiers and potential concessions that can benefit visitors:

• Day Use Fees: A standard fee of $5 per vehicle per day (with an additional $1 per person for groups over 6) covers day-use access, picnic areas, and boat launch.
• RV Campsite Fees: RV campsites with water and electrical hookups are priced at $20 per campsite, per night.
• Tent Campsite Fees: Primitive tent campsites are available at $7 per campsite, per night.
• Group Picnicking: Group picnic sites are available for $40 per day, with entrance fees still applying. Reservations for group shelters may need to be made through the Laurel office.
• America the Beautiful Passes: Individuals holding an Access Pass or Senior Pass (part of the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass series) often receive a 50% discount on standard amenity fees at federal recreation sites, which would typically apply to campsite fees here. It's advisable to confirm this upon arrival or by contacting the relevant office.

The facility now uses a new fee machine at the campsite for payments, making the process straightforward. While there aren't "promotions" in the commercial sense, these established rates and potential federal pass discounts make Turkey Fork Recreation Area an affordable and accessible option for outdoor recreation in Mississippi. For the most up-to-date information on fees and any applicable pass discounts, it is always recommended to check the official National Forests in Mississippi website or contact the Chickasawhay Ranger District directly.

To learn more about Turkey Fork Recreation Area, managed by the Forestry Department (specifically the National Forests in Mississippi), or to inquire about current conditions and camping availability, you can use the following contact details. While the primary phone number provided in the prompt is (601) 788-6006, specific inquiries about Turkey Fork Recreation Area are often best directed to the relevant Ranger District.

For campground inquiries and specific details about Turkey Fork Recreation Area:

Primary Contact for Turkey Fork Recreation Area (Chickasawhay Ranger District):

Phone: 601-428-0594

Address: 746 Turkey Fork Road, Richton, MS 39476, USA (This is often the more direct physical address for the recreation area itself, complementing the Wingate Rd address for broader context.)

You can also contact the general Forestry Department line provided in the prompt for broader inquiries:

General Forestry Department Phone: (601) 788-6006

Mobile Phone: +1 601-788-6006

When you call, be sure to specify that you are inquiring about Turkey Fork Recreation Area, particularly for camping, fishing, or day-use activities. The staff at the Chickasawhay Ranger District can provide the most precise and current information to help you plan your visit to this beautiful part of the DeSoto National Forest.

Turkey Fork Recreation Area, a vital part of the National Forests in Mississippi and managed by the Forestry Department, is exceptionally suitable for locals throughout the state. It offers a comprehensive and accessible outdoor experience that caters directly to the desires of Mississippians seeking both adventure and tranquility in their own backyard.

Firstly, its location within the DeSoto National Forest near Richton provides a genuine escape into nature without requiring extensive travel for many Southern Mississippi residents. The area's "quiet and peaceful" atmosphere, surrounded by mature trees, offers a perfect respite from the daily grind, allowing locals to truly unwind and reconnect with the natural world. This accessibility to a pristine forest environment makes it ideal for spontaneous weekend trips or planned longer vacations, keeping travel costs and time manageable for local families.

Secondly, the sheer breadth of activities available at Turkey Fork makes it a versatile destination for all interests. For anglers, the 240-acre stocked lake offers "premier fishing." For water sports enthusiasts, there are designated swimming areas, a boat ramp, and opportunities for water skiing. Hikers can enjoy the scenic trail, and families can utilize the picnic areas with grills. This diversity ensures that every member of a local family can find an activity to enjoy, fostering memorable outdoor experiences right here in Mississippi.

Furthermore, the range of camping options—from well-equipped RV sites with full hookups to more rustic tent sites—caters to various preferences and budgets, making it accessible to a wider segment of the local population. The consistently "clean bathrooms with hot water" and well-maintained facilities significantly enhance the comfort level, ensuring a pleasant stay regardless of the chosen camping style. This commitment to cleanliness and visitor comfort is a hallmark of well-managed public recreation areas and greatly appreciated by local users.

Lastly, the affordability of the fees, especially with potential discounts for federal pass holders, makes Turkey Fork Recreation Area a cost-effective choice for outdoor recreation. This enables more Mississippians to enjoy high-quality camping and recreation without breaking the bank. In essence, Turkey Fork Recreation Area, managed by the Forestry Department, is not just a campground; it's a vital natural asset that provides an accessible, diverse, and well-maintained haven for relaxation and adventure, perfectly suited for the outdoor-loving people of Mississippi.