Gin Creek Campground

🌲 **Introduction / Overview**

Nestled amidst the peaceful natural beauty of East Central Mississippi, **Gin Creek Campground** in Collinsville offers a refreshing escape for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a genuine, rustic camping experience. Located conveniently near the bustling city of Meridian, this US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) site provides a tranquil setting right on the shores of **Okatibbee Lake**. Known for its quiet atmosphere and focus on nature-based recreation, Gin Creek is an excellent destination for Mississippi residents looking to unplug and immerse themselves in the great outdoors. It's a small, primitive campground, which contributes to its secluded and peaceful charm, perfect for both solo adventurers and families.

This campground offers a simple, back-to-nature approach to camping, focusing on the fundamental joys of an outdoor retreat. With only a limited number of sites, it promises an intimate setting where you can truly appreciate the local environment. Whether you are an avid fisherman, a keen boater, or simply looking for a quiet place to pitch a tent and watch the sunrise, Gin Creek Campground provides the ideal backdrop. Customers consistently note the beauty of the surroundings, with one camper remarking, "Was awesome. We woke up and watched the sunrise. Would camp here again!"

🗺️ **Location and Accessibility**

Gin Creek Campground is situated in the Collinsville area of Lauderdale County, Mississippi, offering easy access from major roadways, making it a convenient weekend getaway destination for many across the state. The specific area is located along the north end of Okatibbee Lake. Its close proximity to Meridian, a regional hub, means campers can enjoy a secluded experience while remaining within a short drive of essential services and attractions.

The campground’s location is defined by its natural setting, nestled by the water's edge. The surrounding Okatibbee Lake offers over 3,000 acres of water and numerous recreation areas managed by the COE. To reach Gin Creek from the Meridian area, follow this general route:

From I-59/20, take Exit 150 and head north onto Highway 19. Travel approximately 12.5 miles, then turn right onto West Lauderdale Road. After about two and a half miles, turn right onto Richard May Memorial Drive, and the campground will be the next right turn. The area serves as both a boat ramp and a small campground, making it a familiar landmark for local lake-goers. The serene drive into the campground sets the stage for the tranquil stay ahead.

🎣 **Services Offered**

Gin Creek Campground is a true primitive camping area, meaning it provides essential services to support an authentic outdoor experience, focusing on getting you close to nature rather than providing extensive modern facilities. The services are intentionally basic to maintain the rustic appeal:

• **Primitive Campground Sites:** The site offers seven designated camping sites, which are available on a **first-come, first-served basis**. These sites are primarily designed for tent camping.
• **Water Access:** Access to fresh drinking water is available.
• **Restroom Facilities:** A well-maintained modern or vault toilet is provided for visitor use. (Note: Campers should be prepared for basic restroom facilities typical of a primitive COE site.)
• **Camping Amenities per Site:** Each site is equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table, perfect for cooking over an open fire and enjoying outdoor meals.
• **Boat Launch:** A dual-lane boat ramp and boat dock provide convenient access for launching boats directly into Okatibbee Lake for fishing and cruising.
• **Parking:** Ample parking is available for vehicles, including RVs up to 35 feet, though the camping sites themselves are primitive with no hookups.

🏞️ **Features / Highlights**

The true appeal of Gin Creek Campground lies in its peaceful setting and the wealth of recreational opportunities provided by its location on Okatibbee Lake. The area is a perfect spot to reconnect with the natural landscapes of Mississippi:

• **Lake Okatibbee Access:** Being right on the lake, the campground is a fantastic spot for all types of water activities. Guests can easily enjoy fishing, boating, and kayaking on the expansive reservoir.
• **Scenic Walking/Nature Trails:** The natural surroundings are ideal for exploring. One happy visitor noted, "Loved the walking path," highlighting the opportunity for gentle hikes and nature walks within the park grounds or surrounding areas.
• **Wildlife Watching:** The lake and adjacent woods are home to abundant local wildlife, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching and observing animals in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for various birds and, as one review noted, "watch for horses" in the vicinity, adding a unique charm to the experience.
• **Stunning Views:** Set at a comfortable elevation, the campground offers wonderful views, particularly over the lake's inlet. Many sites are shaded by trees, providing relief from the summer sun. The opportunity to witness a spectacular sunrise over the water is a recurring highlight for guests.
• **Affordable Primitive Rates:** The campground is a budget-friendly option, offering low nightly rates, often with a significant discount for seniors/Golden Age Pass holders, operating on a convenient honor system for payment.
• **Pet-Friendly Environment:** The campground is suitable for those traveling with their four-legged friends, provided they are kept on a leash, allowing the whole family to enjoy the outdoor adventure.

📞 **Contact Information**

For more specific details, inquiries about site availability, or operating hours, local users typically contact the Corps of Engineers or the local tourism bureau. Due to its primitive, first-come, first-served nature, direct reservations are not taken for the primitive sites.

P **Address:**

Collinsville, MS 39325, USA

P **Phone:**

While the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis for primitive sites, a primary contact number for the Okatibbee Lake COE Project Office or nearby facilities is often used for general information.

(601) 626-8068 (Often associated with nearby Twiltley Branch Campground/Okatibbee Lake COE Project Office)

8604 Okatibbee Dam Rd, Collinsville, MS 39325 (A more specific location associated with the park area)

👍 **What is Worth Choosing**

Gin Creek Campground is an absolute gem for local Mississippi residents who prioritize a quiet, authentic, and **primitive camping** experience. What truly sets it apart is its **unbeatable location right on Okatibbee Lake**. This is not a glamping resort; it is a dedicated spot for people who love to fish, boat, and simply relax by the water's edge without the distraction of modern RV hookups and extensive amenities.

Choosing Gin Creek means choosing peace. The limited number of sites ensures the area never feels crowded, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural soundtrack of the Mississippi woods. The combination of a convenient **boat launch**, access to **walking trails**, and the simple necessities like a fire ring and picnic table at your site provides everything you need for a restorative outdoor trip.

For budget-conscious campers, the **affordable nightly rate** is a major draw. For nature lovers, the chance to **watch the sunrise over the lake** and observe local wildlife is an experience that keeps visitors coming back, as evidenced by positive local reviews. Gin Creek Campground offers a quintessential, no-fuss Mississippi camping experience—a perfect spot to create memorable outdoor moments right here in Lauderdale County.

If your goal is to escape the concrete, get your boat in the water, and enjoy a peaceful night under the stars, Gin Creek is arguably the best primitive, lakeside option in the Collinsville area.