Chewalla Lake Recreation Area
3.9557 reviews726 Chewalla Lake Rd, Holly Springs MS, 38659
Chewalla Lake Recreation Area
$7.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$7.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Shelter GS1 costs $40 for groups under 50 people and $80 for groups exceeding 50. Each vehicle using the pavilion must pay an additional $5. Overnight site rates range from $7 for non-electric sites to $20 for electric hookups.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of northern Mississippi, Chewalla Lake Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its tranquil waters and diverse camping options. This peaceful retreat offers both RV and tent sites surrounded by nature's embrace, where days are filled with swimming in the refreshing lake, casting lines for the day's catch, or gliding across mirror-like waters in a kayak. While recent years have brought challenges with maintenance and vandalism affecting some facilities, the area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities continue to draw those seeking an authentic outdoor experience away from the crowds.
Chewalla Lake Recreation Area accommodates RV campers and prohibits tent camping due to closed bathrooms. Options include electric/water hookup sites, non-electric sites, and a rentable shelter. Group camping specifics and cabin or glamping options are absent.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time just minutes from your campsite in nearby Holly Springs, where the echoes of the Old South come alive through stunning Antebellum architecture. This historic gem boasts an impressive collection of over 200 buildings gracing the National Register of Historic Places, offering campers a unique blend of outdoor recreation and cultural exploration. Wander through tree-lined streets where each mansion tells a story of bygone eras, making Chewalla Lake the perfect basecamp for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Mississippi's seasons at Chewalla Lake, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Spring and fall emerge as the crown jewels for camping, offering crisp mornings, comfortable days, and perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Summer brings warm, dry days with gentle breezes that whisper through the pines, ideal for water activities. While winter can surprise with occasional cold snaps, the typically mild climate means year-round opportunities for those willing to embrace the seasonal changes.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Chewalla Lake creates natural vantage points throughout the campground, offering varied perspectives of the surrounding landscape and water views from different camping areas.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of towering pines and majestic hardwoods that create a natural cathedral around Chewalla Lake. In spring, dogwood blossoms burst like stars against the forest canopy, while mighty oaks and sweet gums paint the autumn landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons. The land tells its own story through distinctive erosion gullies - remnants of the area's agricultural past - now transformed into characterful features adorned with rustic split-rail fences that add a touch of frontier charm to the scenery.
Geological RegionDiscover the unique landscape of the Holly Springs Ranger District in northern Mississippi, where Chewalla Lake sits cradled by ancient forests. This fascinating region showcases nature's resilience, with dense stands of pine and hardwood thriving atop land that bears the sculptural marks of its farming heritage. The distinctive erosion gullies, now softened by time and framed by picturesque split-rail fences, create a terrain that's both historically significant and visually captivating - a testament to the land's evolution from farmstead to forest sanctuary.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are minimally discussed in sources or reviews. One user mentioned that campsites are dispersed and not too close together, but specific details regarding ADA compliance or accessible facilities are absent.
Sites SizeSites vary in size with some equipped for RVs with water and electric hookups. "Spot #2 had everything we needed for electrical and water hook up," mentioned one reviewer. Tent camping is currently prohibited.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels differ; some reviewers appreciated the spacing of campsites, while others noted overgrown and neglected sites.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose RV-compatible sites with hookups for a better experience as tent camping is currently restricted. Sites closer to the lake offer better views.
Best CampsitesSite #2 is highlighted for its proximity to the lake and access to electrical and water hookups. However, reviews indicate inconsistent service at other sites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
No maximum stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits mentioned per site.
Groups
Group camping details, such as people and vehicle limits, are not provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are dispersed throughout the campground with adequate spacing. Many are shaded and equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from January 1 to December 31. Reservations can be made up to December 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, contact center, mobile app, or in person.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable through the Scan & Pay system; no modifications or refunds permitted.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies vary: Scan & Pay system is non-refundable and modifications are not allowed. Regular reservations incur $10 cancellation fees and may forfeit first-night fees depending on timing.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Chewalla Lake Recreation Area offers a range of activities including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. "Swimming on a sandy beach, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and catfish" are highlighted in the official overview. User reviews confirm these activities, though conditions may vary due to maintenance or vandalism.
Hiking
The campground features trails around the lake. One user mentioned "trail that goes around the lake on site," but additional details on trail difficulty and lengths are absent.Fishing
Fishing is a key recreational activity, with opportunities to catch largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and catfish. "Great fishing and camping spot," mentioned one user. However, others noted poor water conditions in some reviews.Swimming
Swimming at Chewalla Lake is accessible, featuring a serene no-wake lake and a sandy beach. One user described the beach as "gorgeous sand," but another noted poor water quality during their visit.Boating
Boating is supported with a no-wake lake and an on-site boat ramp. Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities. "Boat ramp is located on-site," per the overview.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are available, including sightings of bears, boars, and cougars, though these animals typically stay away from populated areas. One reviewer detailed wildlife encounters, including a boar attracted by pet food.Beach activities
Beach-related activities include relaxing on the sandy beach and swimming. "The beach was gorgeous sand," one reviewer noted.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available in the no-wake lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings and grills.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters include bears, boars, cougars, and ticks. User reviews also mention poor road conditions and ongoing vandalism.
Active alertsReports of vandalism and closures affecting bathroom facilities and tent camping availability in recent years. Guests are advised to check current conditions before planning a visit.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and emergency services are in Holly Springs, approximately 8.5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are inconsistently utilized. User reviews emphasize issues with trash accumulation and the need for additional cleanup efforts: "Bring extra trash bags to clean up your site."
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to a 260-acre no-wake lake suitable for swimming, canoeing, and fishing.
Common complaintsUsers frequently cite poor maintenance, trash accumulation, lack of functioning facilities, and closures due to vandalism as major concerns.
HostCamp host Chuck has been praised for his efforts to improve campground conditions by clearing storm damage and assisting guests.
Campground Map
726 Chewalla Lake Rd, Holly Springs MS, 38659
Driving directionsIn Holly Springs, Mississippi at the intersection of State Routes 4 and 7, take Route 4 east 1.4 miles to the Chewalla Lake sign. At the sign, bear right and go 5.7 miles to the Chewalla Lake Recreation Area sign (Forest Route 611/Chewalla Lake Road). Turn left at the sign and go 1.3 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads; however, user reviews indicate road conditions to be poor in some areas with potholes and unmaintained paths. It is situated approximately 3 miles from a major highway, requiring careful navigation especially at night due to limited visibility.Nearby places
Holly Springs: 8.5 miles northwest, Memphis TN: approximately 50 miles north
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, gas stations, and dining options are available in Holly Springs, 8.5 miles northwest.
Camper Reviews
4.0
57 reviews
Chewalla Lake Recreation Area has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Chewalla Lake Recreation Area highlight peaceful surroundings, recreational activities, and affordability. However, concerns about facility closures, vandalism, and maintenance issues appear frequently. "Wonderful park," and "nice quiet place," are common praises, but others report "trash everywhere" and "locked bathrooms."
Review Summaries
Based on 57 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include serene atmosphere, spacious campsites, good fishing conditions, and helpful campground hosts. "Quiet, peaceful camping," and "beautiful lake," are recurring themes in reviews.
Based on 57 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues raised include facility closures (bathrooms, showers), vandalism, trash accumulation, and poor road conditions. "Trash everywhere," "locked bathrooms," and "overgrown, unkept...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cash for fees, firewood, extra trash bags, and personal toilet supplies due to facility closures. "Minimize ticks by raking undergrowth," noted one reviewer.
Based on 57 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Facilities appear to have suffered closures from COVID-19 and vandalism, with many reviews from 2021 pointing out significant maintenance issues. Recent reviews from 2023 suggest partial reopening...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "Chewalla Lake is just what we were looking for...a place in nature." (2019) - "Such a peaceful camping experience!" (2019) - "Sadly, the hooligans have vandalized the campgrounds so they're...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews include: - "Found my campsite easily, but my power and my neighbor's power was not turned on until late that night." (2020) - "Campsite 003 had trash and bottles...
Based on 57 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility-specific feedback is limited, though reviews mention dispersed campsites with space. No clear ADA compliance details are available.
Based on 57 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. "Pets are welcome, on leashes," mentioned one reviewer, though another noted that pets are not allowed on the beach.
Based on 57 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025