Davis Lake Campground
859 CR 124 Houlka, MS 38850
Davis Lake Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping fees are $20 per night, which includes a $14 base fee and a $6 hook-up fee. For group shelters: $40 for groups under 50 people, $80 for...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$80.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider662-285-3264
About this campground
Discover your perfect lakeside retreat at this enchanting campground nestled along the eastern shore of Davis Lake. Here, crystal-clear waters beckon swimmers and kayakers while anglers cast their lines in pursuit of the day's catch. Nature enthusiasts will find themselves immersed in a paradise of birdwatching opportunities and scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forest. Whether you're seeking adventure on the water or peaceful moments by the shore, this campground offers an unforgettable escape into nature's embrace.
Davis Lake Campground offers diverse camping options, including tent and RV camping. The lakeside sites are a highlight, providing scenic views and close proximity to the water.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living timeline where ancient history meets American heritage. The campground serves as your gateway to the legendary Natchez Trace Parkway, a storied corridor that has witnessed 10,000 years of human history. From prehistoric peoples to European explorers, from Native American nations to early American settlers, this route has seen it all. Nearby, the mysterious Owl Creek Mounds stand as silent sentinels, preserving the archaeological treasures of civilizations long past and inviting modern explorers to contemplate the rich tapestry of human history woven into this landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the campground's ever-changing personality throughout the year. Spring arrives with gentle breezes and blooming wildflowers, creating perfect conditions for hiking and wildlife watching. Fall transforms the landscape into a tapestry of golden and crimson hues, with crisp air ideal for campfire gatherings. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and water sports, while winter offers a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere with cooler temperatures that invite cozy evenings under star-filled skies.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain part of the landscape's natural mystery, visitors will discover a terrain that gently rises and falls with the natural contours of the land, creating diverse microclimates and varied perspectives throughout the campground.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where rolling hills clothed in majestic hardwoods and towering pines create a natural amphitheater around the pristine 200-acre Davis Lake. This diverse forest ecosystem provides a stunning backdrop of emerald canopies in summer and spectacular color displays in autumn. The interplay of water and woodland creates countless scenic vistas, from misty morning lake views to sunset-painted hillsides, offering photographers and nature lovers endless opportunities to capture the beauty of Mississippi's natural heritage.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Tombigbee National Forest, the campground occupies a fascinating geological canvas where ancient hills tell stories written in stone and soil. The undulating terrain, carved by millennia of natural forces, supports a thriving ecosystem of mixed hardwood and pine forests. This unique positioning along Davis Lake's eastern shore creates a diverse habitat where upland forests meet aquatic environments, resulting in an extraordinarily rich natural setting that showcases the best of Mississippi's hill country.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers several accessible features, including flush toilets, fishing docks, and campsites. Specific measures, such as accessible drinking water and picnic areas, enhance usability for those with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious, accommodating various setups, including RVs. However, a few sites are less level than others, as highlighted by one camper: "Several of the sites were far from level, so be careful picking the site."
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies, with lakeside sites being more open and less private but offering excellent views. "The sites are nicely spaced," noted one reviewer.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLakefront sites offer better views and access to water. Reviewers recommend avoiding older sites with uneven surfaces farther from the lake.
Best CampsitesSites near the lake, such as #17 and #18, received high praise for their views and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 2 PM
Check-out
Check-out at 2 PM
Stay Limit
No specific stay limit appears in the authoritative content.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit maximum guest limit per site is stated.
Groups
The group picnic area is available for reservation at $40 per day for groups of fewer than 50 people and $80 for larger groups. Each vehicle requires a $5 day-use fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites arranged in two main areas—lakeside sites and wooded sites. Lakeside sites are more open and closer to the water.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservation accessible via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityScan and Pay system allows for first-come, first-served payments. No refunds or changes for reservations made this way.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay system does not allow refunds, modifications, or cancellations. Day-use sites forfeit fees if canceled less than 14 days in advance.
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
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Davis Lake Campground cover a range of interests, from water-based activities like fishing, swimming, and kayaking to land-based options such as hiking, birding, and wildlife observation. The nearby Chickasaw OHV Trail adds a motorized recreation dimension, while the Tanglefoot Trail caters to cyclists and hikers. The serene environment and picturesque lake attract visitors seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures alike.
Hiking
The campground features a 2-mile trail along the north edge of the lake, connecting to fishing piers. Further afield, the Tanglefoot Trail—a 43.5-mile Rails-to-Trails path—is located 5 miles west of the campground, accommodating both hikers and cyclists.Fishing
Davis Lake is known for its fishing opportunities, with species such as largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, crappie, catfish, and bream. "Fishing is great," said a camper, and fishing docks provide accessible options for anglers.Swimming
The grassy beach along Davis Lake offers a designated swimming area. The lake's 'No Wake' policy enhances its appeal for peaceful swimming.Biking
Cyclists can enjoy the Tanglefoot Trail, a nearby 43.5-mile multi-use trail. It spans multiple towns and offers varied terrain suitable for all skill levels.Boating
Boating is permitted, with many lakeside sites offering spaces to anchor boats. The 'No Wake' policy ensures a tranquil boating experience, and the lake is noted for being ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including foxes, bobcats, and migratory birds like geese, ducks, hawks, and herons. "We had a Great Blue Heron 'friend' during our entire stay," shared one camper.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around the grassy swimming beach by Davis Lake, which is suitable for sunbathing and shoreline relaxation.Winter Activities
Winter recreation is limited but includes peaceful camping experiences due to low visitor numbers and serene surroundings.Water Sports
The lake is ideal for non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, with a 'No Wake' policy enhancing safety and enjoyment.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings with grills provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsReports of stray dogs wandering in the area. Wildlife such as foxes and bobcats may be present.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Nov 26
Wednesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Located 21 miles from Tupelo, MS, the nearest city for emergency services like hospitals and police. The campground itself is unstaffed.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (year-round peak season).
Trash and recyclingThe campground has waste disposal facilities, but some reviewers found them narrow or difficult to access. "The dump station was narrow," one visitor pointed out.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the 200-acre Davis Lake with accessible docks and piers. Lake is no-wake, offering serene conditions for kayaking and fishing.
Common complaintsStray dogs, outdated bathrooms, inconsistent enforcement of campground rules, narrow dump station access, locked showers.
HostCamp hosts frequently mentioned as friendly and helpful, with regular checks on facilities and campers.
Campground Map
859 CR 124 Houlka, MS 38850
Driving directionsFrom Tupelo, drive 17 miles south on the Natchez Trace Parkway to the Davis Lake Recreation Area Exit at milepost 243. Turn right on Davis Lake Road and continue 4 miles to the campground.
Located off the Natchez Trace Parkway, 4 miles from the Davis Lake Exit. Roads leading in are reportedly bumpy, with potholes and tight turns noted by reviewers. Accessibility is convenient from the Parkway but may pose challenges for large rigs.Nearby places
Tupelo, MS (21 miles south) | Houston, MS (12 miles north)
Nearby supplies
Groceries available in Houlka, MS (4 miles). Additional options in Tupelo, MS (21 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.5
88 reviews
Davis Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly rated for its scenic location, cleanliness, and variety of recreational opportunities. However, there are concerns about maintenance and infrastructure, such as uneven sites and outdated facilities. "The lake and pine trees are beautiful, but this place overall seems like it has seen better days," said one user.
Review Summaries
Based on 88 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere, well-spaced sites, and picturesque lake views. "Great quiet little campground," noted a camper. The friendly and helpful camp hosts consistently...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include maintenance issues, such as locked or broken showers, uneven sites, stray dogs, and outdated facilities. "Campground rules only apply to certain people," remarked one...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing leveling blocks for uneven sites and extra hoses for water connections. "Be aware several of the sites were far from level," advised one user. Early reservations are...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is quieter and more serene during winter months, as noted by multiple visitors. Spring and fall see increased activity, particularly for bird migration and fishing. Summer weekends can...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Spectacular sunrises and evening sunsets," "Fishing is great," "The facilities were clean and grounds well-kept," "The campground is well-kept, the bathrooms are always clean," "A peaceful getaway,"...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #017 receives positive feedback for its views and proximity to the lake. Site #018 is noted for being spacious, level, and close to facilities. Conversely, site #015 has been criticized for an...
Based on 88 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are appreciated, with accessible fishing docks and flush toilets highlighted. "Accessible flush toilet facilities and fishing docks," noted one reviewer.
Based on 88 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed, and they are not allowed on the beach. Stray dogs were noted as a problem by some reviewers: "There are at least 3 stray dogs that wander around the campground."
Based on 88 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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