US Choctaw Lake Campground

For Mississippi outdoor enthusiasts, the **US Choctaw Lake Campground** stands out as a premier destination nestled in the scenic **Tombigbee National Forest**. Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, this campground offers a classic, lake-centric camping experience that skillfully balances rustic forest charm with essential modern amenities. Located off Choctaw Lake Road near Ackerman, this area is a central Mississippi gem, drawing visitors who seek to unplug, enjoy nature, and participate in a wide range of water and trail activities.

The campground wraps gracefully around the tranquil 100-acre Choctaw Lake, providing many sites with stunning water views and a peaceful, shaded environment. Unlike many remote forest areas, Choctaw Lake is **Good for kids**, featuring a dedicated swimming area, a playground, and accessible amenities that make it an easy choice for family outings. The generous spacing between sites, as noted by local visitors, ensures that even when the campground is popular, you retain a valuable sense of privacy and quiet enjoyment, allowing for that true rest and relaxation that so many Mississippians crave. It’s a place where you can switch off the phone (cell service is noted to be spotty) and truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the National Forest.

Introduction / Overview

The **US Choctaw Lake Campground** is a well-developed recreation area within the **Tombigbee National Forest**. It is designed to accommodate a variety of camping styles, from traditional tent camping to modern RV setups. The facility’s commitment to providing a full spectrum of outdoor opportunities makes it a year-round attraction (though services may vary seasonally). The campground offers approximately 20 to 27 campsites, many of which are designated "combined sites," welcoming both RVs and tents.

It functions as the hub of the broader Choctaw Lake Recreation Area, which is managed to conserve the forest resources while promoting public enjoyment. The emphasis here is on providing clean, accessible facilities—including those for **Picnics** and group gatherings—alongside recreational water and land access. Visitors pay a **Camping fee** for overnight stays, which helps maintain the high quality of the sites and facilities, including running water and clean restrooms. The area is a perfect blend of natural seclusion and necessary convenience.

Location and Accessibility

The campground is located deep in the central region of Mississippi, near the town of Ackerman, and is managed by the Tombigbee Ranger District of the National Forests in Mississippi.

• **Address:** Choctaw Lake Rd, Ackerman, MS 39735, USA.
• **Regional Access:** The site is easily accessible, located only a few miles off Highway 15, which connects directly to the town of Ackerman. It is also within a reasonable driving distance—about 30 miles—of larger centers like Starkville, making it a viable weekend escape for many local residents.
• **Road Conditions:** Access is via paved roads, specifically Forest Road 967 (Choctaw Lake Road), leading directly to the fee station and the campground entrance, making it easy to reach even for larger **RV camping** units.
• **Parking:** Abundant **On-site parking** is provided for all campers and day-use visitors. Importantly, the site includes a **Wheelchair accessible parking lot**, part of its commitment to full accessibility.
• **Accessibility:** The facility features a **Wheelchair accessible entrance** and accessible flush toilets and showers, ensuring that the natural beauty of Choctaw Lake can be enjoyed by all members of the Mississippi community.

Services Offered

Choctaw Lake Campground is well-equipped to support a comfortable and extended stay, offering many services that exceed basic forest camping standards:

• **Full Camp Variety:** Offers both dedicated **Tent sites** and modern **RV camping** spots.
• **Utility Hookups:** Most sites are developed with **RV electric hookup** and **RV water hookup**, ensuring comfort for modern camping vehicles. Note: A dump station is provided near the entrance, as sites do not typically include sewage hookups.
• **Sanitation:** Two bath houses are available, featuring both **Public restroom** (flush toilets) and **Public shower** facilities, noted by customers as being clean and in great shape. **Running water** is reliably available.
• **Recreation Fees:** The site operates on a **Camping fee** structure for overnight stays, and a separate day-use fee for activities like fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Discounts may be available for Access and Senior Pass holders.
• **Pet Policy:** The campground is **Dogs allowed**, meaning you can bring your beloved canine companion, though they must be kept leashed and controlled as per Forest Service regulations.

Features / Highlights

The unique highlights of Choctaw Lake Recreation Area are centered on its lakeside location and family-friendly amenities:

• **Choctaw Lake Access:** The centerpiece is the 100-acre lake, which is a **Highlights** for fishing (stocked with bass, bream, and crappie), motorized boating (with a two boat-ramp facility), and a dedicated, safe **Swimming** area.
• **Trail Network:** Excellent opportunities for **Activities** like **Hiking**, including a popular 3-mile accessible trail around the lake and access to the longer Noxubee Hills Trail (26 miles, moderate-to-experienced level).
• **Family Fun:** Features a **Playground** and **Swings** to keep younger campers entertained, alongside **Kid-friendly hikes** that are gentle enough for all ages.
• **Picnicking Amenities:** Day-use and overnight areas are equipped with ample **Picnic tables** and **Barbecue grill** facilities, making it ideal for family **Picnics** and group gatherings.
• **WPA History:** The area is steeped in history, with some original structures built by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930s still visible, connecting visitors to the heritage of the National Forest system.

Contact Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, particularly regarding reservations (which are highly recommended), current fees, and seasonal changes, prospective campers should use the official Forest Service contact points:

Address: Choctaw Lake Rd, Ackerman, MS 39735, USA
Phone: (662) 285-3897 (Often the general Tombigbee District contact number)
Mobile Phone: +1 662-285-3897
*For reservations, check the national booking service or contact the Tombigbee Ranger District Office at 662-285-3264.*

What is Worth Choosing

The **US Choctaw Lake Campground** is unequivocally worth choosing for Mississippi families seeking a balance of adventure and comfort in a stunning natural setting. Its combination of **RV electric hookup** and high-quality, clean amenities like **Public shower** and **Restroom** facilities means you don't have to sacrifice comfort for the authentic experience of camping in the **Tombigbee National Forest**. The ample recreational opportunities—from fishing to the well-maintained **Hiking** trails and **Playground**—ensure that every member of the family, including those with accessibility needs, will find something to enjoy. It is a highly-recommended, well-managed public campground offering fantastic value for a truly memorable Mississippi outdoor adventure.

US Choctaw Lake Campground

Choctaw Lake Rd, Ackerman, MS 39735, USA