Lake Mary Crawford, Monticello, MS

Are you a Mississippian dreaming of a peaceful lakeside retreat, where the gentle sounds of nature replace the everyday hustle and bustle? Lake Mary Crawford in Monticello, MS, is precisely that hidden gem, offering a serene and beautiful setting perfect for your next camping adventure. As a professional content writer specializing in local business SEO, we’re delighted to provide you with a clear, engaging, and factual overview of this charming campground, highlighting why it’s a favorite among those who appreciate the quieter side of Mississippi’s outdoors.

Mississippi is renowned for its welcoming communities and picturesque natural landscapes, and Lake Mary Crawford perfectly embodies these qualities. Unlike some larger, more bustling campgrounds, Lake Mary Crawford offers a tranquil escape, making it ideal for those seeking a truly relaxing experience. Reviews consistently praise its quiet ambiance and scenic beauty, even during the cooler months, ensuring that visitors can truly unwind and reconnect with nature.

Our goal is to give you an inviting yet factual look at what makes Lake Mary Crawford a notable destination for local campers and travelers through the state. We’ll delve into its convenient location, the essential services it provides, and the key features that contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From its reputation for excellent fishing to the convenience of modern amenities like hot showers and electric hookups, it’s clear that Lake Mary Crawford is designed for genuine relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

Whether you’re an avid angler, a family looking for a peaceful getaway, or simply someone needing a quiet spot to recharge, understanding the unique offerings of Lake Mary Crawford will help you plan your perfect trip. Let’s explore what makes this Monticello treasure a suitable and highly recommended spot for Mississippians.

Location and Accessibility

Lake Mary Crawford Campground is wonderfully situated at 293 Lake Mary Ln, Monticello, MS 39654, USA. This location places it just a few miles west of the town of Monticello in Lawrence County, Mississippi, offering a perfect blend of peaceful natural surroundings and convenient access to local services.

The campground’s primary draw is its direct connection to Lake Mary Crawford itself. This 128-acre state fishing lake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, boasting healthy populations of largemouth bass, bream (bluegill and redear sunfish), crappie, and catfish. Campers have easy access to the lake for fishing, boating (no wake all times except Sunday, Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day from noon to sunset within ski area), and other water-based recreation.

From an accessibility standpoint, Lake Mary Crawford is easily reachable from U.S. Highway 84, a major east-west route in southern Mississippi. This makes it a convenient destination for campers traveling from various parts of the state, including those coming from areas around Hattiesburg, Brookhaven, or even further afield. Despite its tranquil setting, the campground is not isolated, with the town of Monticello offering basic amenities such as gas stations and local stores, ensuring that campers have what they need within a short drive. The relatively smooth access road, despite being described by one reviewer as "a little rough" for about 1.5 miles from the highway, still makes it manageable for RVs and trailers.

This balance of secluded natural beauty and practical accessibility makes Lake Mary Crawford an ideal spot for Mississippians looking for a genuine escape without venturing too far off the beaten path.

Services Offered

Camping Sites: Lake Mary Crawford offers a total of 20 developed camping pads. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, indicating a more traditional, less reservation-heavy approach to camping.
RV and Tent Camping: The campground accommodates both RVs (including larger Class A motorhomes, as noted in reviews) and primitive tent camping. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.
Water and Electric Hookups: All 20 developed camping sites are equipped with water and electric hookups (typically 30 amp, with some 50 amp availability). This provides essential conveniences for RV and pop-up campers.
Hot Showers and Clean Restrooms: Reviews explicitly mention "hot showers" and "clean and very nice" restrooms, which are crucial amenities for a comfortable camping experience, especially during cooler seasons. While some older bathhouses might be present, there's also a newer restroom facility at the main park entrance.
Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available on-site near the bathhouse, providing a convenient service for RV owners.
Picnic Tables and Barbecue Grills: Each developed campsite typically includes a picnic table and barbecue grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and dining.
Boat Ramps and Fishing Piers: The campground provides two boat ramps with courtesy piers, facilitating easy access to the lake for boating. There are also two handicapped-accessible fishing piers, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the excellent fishing opportunities.
Nature Trail: A designated nature trail offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings, adding to the recreational offerings.
Pavilion Rental: A pavilion is available for rental, which can be ideal for group gatherings, family reunions, or small events.

Features / Highlights

Quiet and Pretty Environment: Consistently highlighted in customer reviews, the campground is celebrated for being "very quiet and pretty." This peaceful atmosphere is a major draw for those looking to escape noise and unwind in nature.
Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Lake Mary Crawford is a well-managed state fishing lake known for its healthy fish populations, including largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. The presence of fish attractors and designated fishing piers further enhances the angling experience.
Well-Maintained Facilities (including hot showers): The availability of hot showers and clean restrooms, even in winter, is a significant highlight, ensuring comfort for campers. The sites themselves are generally described as clean and well-maintained.
Lakeside Recreation: Beyond fishing, the lake offers opportunities for boating, with two boat ramps provided. The "No Wake" rule for most of the time (except specific holidays) ensures a calm environment for anglers and quiet enjoyment.
Accessibility for All: The provision of handicapped-accessible fishing piers demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, allowing more individuals to enjoy the lake's resources.
Flexibility in Camping: With 20 developed sites offering hookups, plus primitive camping options, the campground caters to different levels of camping preferences. The first-come, first-served policy for sites offers spontaneity for last-minute trips.
Natural Beauty: The blend of wooded areas and open spaces around the lake creates a scenic backdrop for camping, perfect for nature photography, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a state-managed facility by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP), Lake Mary Crawford Campground typically operates on a standardized fee schedule rather than offering frequent, publicly advertised commercial promotions or special discounts. However, there are established pricing tiers and potential long-term options that can be considered advantageous for locals.

Daily Rates: Camping permits are generally affordable, with reported rates around $18-$22 per day for RV sites with power and water, and around $13 per day for primitive camping.
Monthly Permits: For those looking for extended stays, a 30-day camping permit is available for approximately $360. This offers significant savings compared to nightly rates for long-term campers, making it a cost-effective option for locals.

While specific "promo codes" or limited-time sales are not common for state parks, the consistent affordability and the option for monthly permits act as ongoing benefits for regular visitors or those needing a longer-term camping solution. It's always best to call the lake office directly to confirm current rates and any specific policies regarding extended stays or potential discounts that might apply to seniors, military personnel, or other groups, as these can sometimes vary or be updated.

Contact Information

For inquiries, availability, and specific details about camping at Lake Mary Crawford, please use the following contact information:

Address: 293 Lake Mary Ln, Monticello, MS 39654, USA

Phone: (601) 587-7853

Mobile Phone: +1 601-587-7853

Since camping sites are on a first-come, first-served basis, calling ahead to the lake manager is highly recommended to inquire about current capacity, especially during peak seasons or holidays. They will be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on site availability, fees, and any specific lake regulations you should be aware of for fishing or boating.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Lake Mary Crawford Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in the Mississippi region, particularly for those seeking a tranquil, affordable, and authentic outdoor experience. Its unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and understated charm makes it a perfect escape right in their backyard.

Firstly, the campground's defining feature – its quiet and pretty environment – directly caters to Mississippians looking for genuine relaxation. Unlike more commercialized or bustling parks, Lake Mary Crawford offers a serene ambiance, allowing visitors to truly unwind amidst nature's sounds. This peaceful setting is ideal for families, retirees, or anyone simply needing a break from daily stresses, fostering a deeper connection with Mississippi's natural landscapes.

Secondly, the lake itself is a significant draw, especially for the strong fishing community in Mississippi. Renowned for its excellent populations of bass, bream, crappie, and catfish, Lake Mary Crawford provides ample opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The readily available boat ramps and accessible fishing piers further enhance its appeal, making it a convenient and productive spot for a day of fishing or a multi-day angling trip.

Moreover, the practical amenities, including full hookups, clean restrooms with hot showers (a welcome feature even in winter!), and a dump station, ensure a comfortable camping experience for both RVers and tent campers. The affordability of daily and especially monthly rates makes it an economical choice for extended stays or frequent visits, providing a stable base for locals without breaking the bank.

In essence, Lake Mary Crawford offers a genuine taste of Mississippi's outdoor lifestyle. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories by the water, anglers can pursue their passion, and anyone can simply enjoy the quiet beauty of the state. For locals, this campground represents an accessible, well-maintained, and truly peaceful retreat that consistently lives up to its promise of a quiet and pretty escape.