Clear Springs Recreation Area (Ms)
4.3137 reviews3888 Clear Springs Rd, Meadville, MS 39653
Clear Springs Recreation Area (Ms)
$7.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary depending on site type and amenities. Primitive camping starts at $7 per night, standard sites range from $14-$20, and RV sites with hookups can go up to $40 per night.
About this campground
Discover your perfect forest retreat at Clear Springs Recreation Area, where 22 thoughtfully designed campsites await beneath the towering canopy of the Homochitto National Forest. Whether you're arriving with a fully-equipped RV or seeking a back-to-basics primitive camping experience, this tranquil haven offers the best of both worlds. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with natural beauty, featuring hot showers to refresh after a day of exploration, clean flush toilets, and inviting picnic areas perfect for family gatherings. The spacious pavilion provides a community hub for group events, while meandering trails beckon adventurers to explore the surrounding wilderness.
The Clear Springs Recreation Area accommodates various camping preferences, from standard RV sites with water and electric hookups to primitive camping areas. A group camping site is also available, requiring prior reservation.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living legacy of American conservation at Clear Springs, nestled within the storied Homochitto National Forest. This protected landscape represents decades of careful stewardship, preserving Mississippi's natural heritage for generations of outdoor enthusiasts. The forest's establishment marked a pivotal moment in regional conservation efforts, transforming once-depleted lands into the thriving ecosystem you'll explore today.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Mississippi's seasons at Clear Springs, where mild winters give way to warm, vibrant summers. Each season paints the forest in different hues – from the fresh greens of spring to the golden tapestry of fall. While summer brings balmy days perfect for lake activities, occasional afternoon thunderstorms add drama to the landscape and may temporarily affect trail access. Pack layers year-round and embrace the ever-changing moods of this dynamic forest environment.
ElevationThe campground rests comfortably within Mississippi's gently undulating terrain, offering an accessible outdoor experience for campers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering pines and majestic hardwoods that create a natural sanctuary at Clear Springs. The landscape unfolds in gentle waves of rolling hills, each vista revealing new perspectives of this diverse forest ecosystem. At the heart of the campground, a pristine 10-acre lake mirrors the sky and surrounding trees, creating a serene centerpiece that connects the various camping areas. Morning mist often dances across the water's surface, while evening brings a symphony of forest sounds and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.
Geological RegionClear Springs showcases the distinctive beauty of Mississippi's Homochitto National Forest region, where ancient geological forces sculpted rolling hills now cloaked in magnificent pine and mixed hardwood forests. This diverse ecosystem thrives on the area's unique topography, creating varied microclimates that support an impressive array of plant and animal life. The campground's crown jewel, a sparkling 10-acre lake, serves as a natural gathering point where the forest's beauty is reflected in tranquil waters, offering campers a front-row seat to one of Mississippi's most picturesque landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible amenities, including accessible campsites, parking, flush toilets, showers, and walkways. These features enhance accessibility for all visitors.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with some sites featuring multiple pads. "The electric power sites have 3 pads each and are spaced far enough apart that you can't hear the other campers or feel 'crammed,'" noted one review.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by campsite, with some offering quiet and secluded settings. "Site #11 is private, quiet, and secluded," noted a camper. Other sites are described as well-spaced to provide a sense of privacy.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUpper loop sites recommended for easier trailer/RV access and better cell signal. Lake-side sites offer scenic views.
Best CampsitesSite #11 stands out for its two-story walk-up feature, offering privacy and elevated views of the lake and campground.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in requires immediate payment upon arrival within 30 minutes.
Check-out
Not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit mentioned in the source materials.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No maximum guest count explicitly mentioned.
Groups
The group site can accommodate larger gatherings and requires a reservation. Specific guest capacities are not detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites divided into two loops: Upper loop (Sites 13-22) and Lower loop (Sites 1-12).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but access may be limited by weather or road conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Recreation.gov mobile app using Scan and Pay.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Late arrivals may find limited availability.
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds, modifications, or cancellations allowed for Scan and Pay system payments. The system functions similarly to cash payment.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Clear Springs Recreation Area offers a rich variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore a one-mile trail around the lake and a 10-mile hiking/mountain biking trail. Canoeing and kayaking are permitted, and the area is excellent for picnicking and enjoying the serene lake environment.
Hiking
The campground features two main hiking options: a one-mile trail looping around the lake and a 10-mile hiking and mountain biking trail. "Really enjoyed our 10-mile hike on Richardson trail," shared one camper.Fishing
Fishing is available at the campground, and the nearby Okhissa Lake offers additional opportunities to catch catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and other small panfish.Biking
Mountain biking is available on the 10-mile trail. The terrain and trail conditions are suitable for adventurers seeking a mix of hiking and biking.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are permitted on the campground's 10-acre lake. Okhissa Lake also offers boating opportunities with one boat launch available.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. "The deer walk through the park," commented one camper, emphasizing the natural setting.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed for this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available on the 10-acre lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted; adhering to local fire regulations.
- Quiet hours are expected; no explicit times provided.
Hazards
General hazardsSome reviews noted the presence of hunting activity near the campground during hunting season. Limited cell service in lower loop.
Active alertsRoad access may become challenging during heavy rain or storms.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 emergency services are Meadville, MS, where you'll find hospitals and police stations. For general inquiries, call the main office at (601) 384-5876.
Good to know
Peak season datesJan 01, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash is collected daily, and the campground is described as clean and well-maintained. "Refuse was collected daily," noted one camper.
Proximity to water featuresA 10-acre lake connects camping areas; Okhissa Lake, a 1,075-acre lake, lies 15 minutes away.
Common complaintsCell service is limited in lower campsites. Some electrical hookups have issues, as noted by reviewers. Some trails require maintenance.
HostNo campground host present during many reviews; campground managed by park staff from afar.
Campground Map
3888 Clear Springs Rd, Meadville, MS 39653
Driving directionsFrom Meadville, take State Route 84 Westbound. Turn south onto Clear Springs Road and follow the paved road to the campground entrance. Alternatively, avoid Google Maps recommending a 4-mile dirt road by staying on Route 84 westward to Clear Springs Road.
Mostly paved roads; some routes can lead to dirt roads as indicated by Google Maps, but the main access through Clear Springs Road is paved and easy to navigate.Nearby places
Meadville (approx. 6 miles, 10-minute drive)
Roxie (approx. 15 miles, 20-minute drive)
Natchez (approx. 40 miles, 50-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be accessed in Meadville (6 miles away). Larger stores and supplies available in Natchez (40 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.3
37 reviews
Clear Springs Recreation Area (Ms) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Clear Springs Recreation Area are generally positive, with an average rating of 4.3. Campers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, clean facilities, and well-maintained trails. Some concerns include the variable cell phone service and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers highlight the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and natural beauty. "The campground was well maintained," and "bathhouses were kept clean," are frequent remarks. The hiking trails and...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Key complaints include poor or no cell phone service in lower areas, outdated or non-functional electric hookups at some sites, and the lack of a camp store. "No signal on the lower one," remarked...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Stay on the upper level of the campground for better cell service. 2. Check electric hookups before settling into a site. 3. Bring cash for the honor box payment system. 4. Prepare for long trails...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive reviews are consistent year-round, with campers frequently noting the quiet ambiance and well-maintained facilities. However, some hikers caution about trail conditions during hunting...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campground was well maintained even though there were no camp hosts," noted Robert S. "Site #11 is private, quiet, and secluded," shared another camper. "Bathhouses were kept clean and refuse...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #11 is described as secluded and private with a unique two-story layout. Some sites in the upper loop are noted to have better cell service and easier RV access.
Based on 37 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground has accessible features such as flush toilets, showers, and parking. However, there are no reviews specifically from users with disabilities to gauge their experiences.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet owners have found the campground accommodating. "Having less foot traffic beside our campsite made it easier having the dogs with us," shared one user.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025