Turkey Fork Recreation Area

For Mississippians, escaping the everyday hustle often means heading outdoors to embrace the state's natural beauty. When the call of the wild beckons, finding a serene and well-equipped campground becomes paramount. Nestled within the expansive De Soto National Forest, Turkey Fork Recreation Area in Richton, MS, stands out as a beloved destination for campers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts alike. This beautiful park offers a peaceful retreat, inviting locals to unwind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories.

Turkey Fork Recreation Area is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an experience. Imagine waking up to the sounds of local wildlife, enjoying a cup of coffee by a tranquil lake, and spending your days fishing, hiking, or simply soaking in the quiet. This campground provides the ideal setting for individuals, couples, and families seeking a classic Mississippi outdoor adventure. Its reputation for cleanliness, quietude, and abundant wildlife makes it a go-to spot for those who appreciate the simpler pleasures of camping and the great outdoors.

Turkey Fork Recreation Area is located at Richton, MS 39476, USA, specifically off MS-26. While the general address is Richton, for GPS purposes, you might find "746 Turkey Fork Road, Richton, MS 39476" to be more precise. This gem is nestled within the sprawling De Soto National Forest, offering a truly immersive natural experience.

For Mississippians, accessing Turkey Fork is relatively straightforward. It's approximately 40 miles from Hattiesburg and 44 miles from Laurel, making it a convenient drive for many residents in the southern part of the state. Directions typically involve traveling east on U.S. Highway 42 from Hattiesburg to Richton, then continuing east on Highway 42 to Sandhill, and following signs from there. From Laurel, you'd travel south on Highway 15 to Richton, then follow the directions from Richton. Its location provides that desirable "away from it all" feeling without being excessively remote, ensuring a manageable drive for weekend trips or longer stays. The roads leading to the park are generally well-maintained, accommodating RVs and trailers with ease.

Turkey Fork Recreation Area provides a range of services and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for its visitors:

• RV Campsites with Full Hookups: The park offers 20 RV campsites, each equipped with picnic tables, grills, and essential water and electrical hookups (30 amp & 20 amp). Some double campsites are also available (sites 1, 6, 12, and 19).
• Tent Camping Areas: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, there are 8 primitive tent camping sites available, complete with fire rings and lantern posts.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is located within the campground loop for RVers.
• Bathhouses: The recreation area features three bathhouses. Campground bathhouses offer flush toilets and showers, which are generally described as "relatively clean."
• Picnic Areas: Secluded picnic sites are available, equipped with tables and grills, often shaded and near the beach. There are also designated group picnicking sites with shelters.
• Water Access: Water fountains are available for potable water.
• Fire Rings and Grills: Each campsite includes a fire ring and grill for campfires and outdoor cooking.

Turkey Fork Recreation Area is celebrated for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a true highlight for outdoor enthusiasts in Mississippi:

• Beautiful and Quiet Environment: Consistently praised in reviews as a "beautiful park" and a "very quiet and clean campground," it offers a serene escape from daily life.
• 240-Acre Lake: The centerpiece of the recreation area is the 240-acre Turkey Fork Reservoir, a prime spot for various water-based activities.
• Premier Fishing: The lake is stocked with bass, crappie, and bluegill, offering excellent fishing opportunities for all skill levels. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the banks or by boat.
• Watersports: Beyond fishing, the lake is ideal for swimming (with two designated swim areas), water skiing, and boating (motorized boats allowed). A boat ramp and floating dock are available.
• Abundant Wildlife: Visitors frequently report seeing a variety of wildlife, including cardinal birds, enhancing the natural experience.
• Hiking Trail: A 0.75-mile hiking trail connects the day-use area to the camping area, providing scenic views of the forest and lakeside.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: The campground is generally described as "well maintained," contributing to a pleasant visitor experience.
• Family-Friendly: With diverse activities from swimming to fishing and picnicking, it's an excellent destination for families looking for outdoor fun.
• Open Year-Round: The RV camping area is open year-round, allowing for seasonal visits. The day use area and boat launch typically operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

As a public recreation area managed by the U.S. Forest Service (part of the National Forests in Mississippi), Turkey Fork Recreation Area typically operates with set fee structures rather than frequent promotional offers or discounts. However, it's worth noting the established daily and overnight fees:

• Entrance Fees: $5 per vehicle per day (covers day-use, picnic area, and boat launch). An additional $1 per person for groups over 6.
• RV Campsite Fees: $20 per campsite, per night, for full-service camping areas.
• Tent Campsite Fees: $7 per campsite, per night, for tent camping areas.
• Group Picnicking: Group shelters can be reserved for $40 per day (entrance fees still apply, payable at the Laurel office).

Visitors should be aware that fees are payable via a new fee machine at the campsite. While direct discounts aren't typically promoted, the daily rates are generally considered affordable for the range of amenities and natural experiences offered. It's always a good idea to check the National Forests in Mississippi website or call directly for the most current fee schedule and any updates on operations or potential alerts.

For inquiries, reservations (some RV sites can be reserved via Recreation.gov, while others are first-come, first-served), or to check on current conditions at Turkey Fork Recreation Area, you can use the following contact details:

Address: Richton, MS 39476, USA (Physical address often cited as 746 Turkey Fork Road, Richton, MS 39476)

Phone: (601) 428-0594 (Chickasawhay Ranger District, which manages Turkey Fork Recreation Area)

Official Website: Information can often be found on the National Forests in Mississippi website (fs.usda.gov).

For Mississippians, Turkey Fork Recreation Area is an exceptional choice for experiencing the natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities that the state has to offer. Its location within the De Soto National Forest provides a genuine escape into the wilderness, offering a "very quiet and clean" environment that many seek for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you're a passionate angler drawn to the stocked 240-acre lake, a family looking for a safe and fun place to swim and play, or a camper desiring a peaceful night under the stars, Turkey Fork caters to a variety of outdoor interests.

The combination of well-maintained RV and tent sites with essential hookups, clean bathhouses, and engaging features like the fishing area, boat ramp, and hiking trail, ensures a comfortable and activity-filled visit. While a previous review noted a temporary issue with power and phone contact, the overall sentiment points to a well-regarded destination with abundant wildlife and natural charm. Its accessibility from major Mississippi cities makes it a convenient and affordable local getaway, allowing residents to easily tap into the therapeutic benefits of nature right in their backyard. Turkey Fork Recreation Area truly is a jewel in Mississippi's crown for outdoor enthusiasts.