Piney Grove Campground

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For Mississippi residents seeking a refreshing escape into nature, particularly one that revolves around abundant water recreation, Piney Grove Campground in New Site, MS, presents a compelling option. Nestled along the expansive Bay Springs Lake, which is part of the iconic Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, this campground offers a picturesque setting for families and groups of friends to unwind, enjoy the outdoors, and create lasting memories. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Piney Grove Campground, offering local users in Mississippi a comprehensive guide to what makes this destination a popular choice for their camping and recreational needs.

Mississippi's natural landscape, particularly its waterways, provides a rich tapestry of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From tranquil fishing spots to vibrant boating areas, the state offers diverse environments for recreation. Piney Grove Campground capitalizes on this, providing direct access to the nine-mile Bay Springs Lake, making it a prime location for those who enjoy being on or by the water. It’s a place where the beauty of the forest meets the vastness of the lake, creating an idyllic backdrop for any outdoor adventure.

While often praised for its scenic beauty and recreational offerings, it's also important to provide a realistic perspective based on collective visitor experiences. Our goal is to present a balanced view, highlighting the strengths of Piney Grove Campground while also addressing areas noted in public feedback. This transparency ensures that local Mississippi users can plan their visit with accurate expectations, helping them to prepare for a truly enjoyable and hassle-free camping trip. Whether you're an experienced RVer, a tent camping enthusiast, or simply looking for a beautiful spot for a day of fishing and relaxation, understanding the ins and outs of Piney Grove Campground will enhance your experience.

Introduction / Overview

Piney Grove Campground is a popular recreational area situated on the shores of Bay Springs Lake, which forms a crucial part of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in northeastern Mississippi. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this campground is designed to accommodate both RV and tent campers, offering a blend of natural beauty and essential amenities. With 141 sites, it provides a variety of settings, including highly sought-after waterfront spots. The campground is well-known for its abundant water-based activities, making it a go-to destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. It is recognized for its generally peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained grounds, though some facilities, like the bathhouses, have been noted by past visitors as being older and in need of renovation. Despite this, the overall consensus points to Piney Grove as a beautiful and family-friendly park perfect for outdoor enjoyment.

Location and Accessibility

Piney Grove Campground is located at County Road 3550, New Site, MS 38859, USA. Its position in northeastern Mississippi, near the town of New Site and approximately 8 miles southwest of Booneville, makes it reasonably accessible for many residents across the state. The campground is situated along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, a significant man-made navigational canal that connects the Tennessee River to the Tombigbee River. Access to the campground is typically via well-maintained county roads. From Highway 45 near Booneville, visitors would generally take Highway 30 East towards Burton, then turn onto CR 3501, followed by a turn onto CR 3550. While the primary access roads are paved, some internal roads or approaches might have gravel sections. Many sites are designed as "drive-in," allowing campers to park their vehicles directly at their site. Additionally, some sites offer "boat-in" access, making them reachable by watercraft, which is a unique feature for boaters. Visitors should be aware that some sites feature uneven ground and steps, which might require agile footwork.

Services Offered

• Electric Hookups: All 141 campsites are equipped with electrical hookups, with options for both 30 Amp and 50 Amp service, accommodating a wide range of RVs.
• Water Hookups: Each site also provides potable water connections, ensuring fresh water access for campers.
• Sanitary Dump Station: While individual sewer connections are not typically available at sites, a sanitary dump station is provided within the campground for RV waste disposal.
• Restroom Facilities: Bathhouses with toilets are available for public use. However, it's noted by some visitors that these facilities, particularly the showers, are older and could benefit from renovation.
• Showers: Showers are present in the bathhouses, although some reviews mention a lack of shower curtains or a need for updates.
• Picnic Tables: Every campsite includes a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals.
• Fire Rings/Campfire Rings: Fire rings are provided at each site for campfires, often with grates for cooking.
• Lantern Posts: Sites are equipped with lantern posts for ambient lighting.
• Playground: A playground area is available for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
• Boat Launch/Ramp: The campground offers boat launch facilities for direct access to Bay Springs Lake, ideal for boaters.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach, Piney Grove Beach, is a short walk or bike ride from the campground.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater is present within the park, likely used for interpretive programs or gatherings.
• Laundry Facilities: Some sources mention the presence of laundry facilities, which is a convenient amenity for longer stays.
• WiFi/Cell Service: While generally available, cell service and Wi-Fi can be spotty, with AT&T showing better coverage than Verizon for some users.

Features / Highlights

• Expansive Water Recreation: The primary highlight is Bay Springs Lake, offering vast opportunities for boating, fishing (known for good fishing), kayaking, and swimming across its nine-mile expanse.
• Beautiful Waterfront Sites: Many sites are located directly on the waterfront, providing campers with stunning views and immediate access to the lake, some even offering a "private beach" feel.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Despite some facility observations, the campground itself is generally described as well-maintained, clean, and beautiful, with ample shade from the pine trees.
• Spacious Campsites: Sites are typically well-spaced, offering a good degree of privacy between camping parties.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With playgrounds and ample space for kids to play, combined with various recreational activities, it's a popular choice for families.
• Accessibility for Various Campers: Catering to both RVs and tents, with electric and water hookups available at all sites, makes it versatile for different camping styles.
• Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway Access: Being part of this monumental waterway offers a unique geographical and recreational significance, with 180,000 acres of public land to explore.
• Friendly Staff/Camp Hosts: Many reviews consistently mention friendly and helpful camp hosts and employees, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
• Proximity to Natural Attractions: The surrounding area and the waterway itself offer opportunities for hiking and exploring other recreational areas.

Contact Information

Address: County Road 3550, New Site, MS 38859, USA

Phone: (662) 728-1134

Mobile Phone: +1 662-728-1134

Note: Reservations can often be made through Recreation.gov or similar national reservation systems.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Piney Grove Campground stands out as an incredibly suitable and appealing destination for locals across Mississippi, particularly for those in the northern regions of the state. Its prime location on Bay Springs Lake, part of the magnificent Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, immediately makes it a premier choice for water-loving residents. For Mississippians, the ease of access to such a large and active body of water for boating, fishing, and swimming is a significant advantage, offering endless opportunities for weekend getaways or longer vacations without the need for extensive travel.

The campground's comprehensive offerings, including electric and water hookups at every site, cater effectively to both RV and tent campers, ensuring a comfortable experience regardless of their preferred camping style. While some facilities may show their age, the core amenities and the natural beauty of the surroundings consistently receive high praise from visitors. The presence of a dump station, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site further enhances the convenience for campers. The family-friendly atmosphere, complete with a playground, makes it an ideal spot for bringing children, fostering a love for the outdoors from a young age.

Furthermore, the spacious and often waterfront sites provide a sense of privacy and direct connection to nature that many locals seek. The consistent positive feedback regarding friendly staff and camp hosts creates a welcoming environment, adding to the overall positive experience. Despite minor concerns about older facilities or occasional pests, which are common in natural settings, the overwhelming sentiment is that Piney Grove offers immense value and memorable experiences. For Mississippi residents, it's a readily accessible, scenic, and activity-rich campground that perfectly embodies the outdoor lifestyle the state offers, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation and recreation throughout the year.

Piney Grove Campground

County Road 3550, New Site, MS 38859, USA