Lake Tom Bailey

**Introduction / Overview**

Nestled in the rolling landscape of East Mississippi, **Lake Tom Bailey** is a treasured spot for local anglers and campers seeking a genuine outdoor experience. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP), this 182-acre public lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, holding the state record for Channel Catfish and offering a healthy population of largemouth bass, crappie, and bream. The accompanying campground provides a convenient base for visitors, specifically catering to those who prefer RV or trailer camping with essential hookups.

Lake Tom Bailey Campground offers a straightforward, functional, and budget-friendly camping environment. It provides a peaceful setting for overnight stays or extended fishing trips, all centered around the beautiful lake. The park is less about luxury amenities and more about providing direct access to Mississippi's natural resources. It is ideally suited for fishing enthusiasts, transient travelers, and anyone wanting a simple, lakeside retreat. As public access sites, MDWFP parks like this focus on conserving natural resources and offering affordable recreational opportunities to the Mississippi community. While some general maintenance concerns might occasionally arise, as noted in user reviews (such as restroom upkeep or freeway noise), the core value—a developed site with utilities right next to excellent fishing water—remains the park’s strongest appeal.

The property also serves as a lovely location for general public enjoyment, featuring picnic areas and open fields where local families can spend a pleasant afternoon by the water, even if they aren't camping. The long fishing pier and boat ramp further solidify its status as a complete outdoor recreation area for the people of Mississippi.

**Location and Accessibility**

Lake Tom Bailey is conveniently located in Lauderdale County near the community of Toomsuba, making it easily accessible from the major city of Meridian and the state line with Alabama.

The official address is:

**3222 Northshore Dr, Toomsuba, MS 39364, USA**

The lake is situated approximately 8 miles east of Meridian, just a short drive off of the main **Interstate 20/59** corridor via Highway 11. This ease of access is a significant advantage for travelers moving between Mississippi and Alabama or heading across the state. While the convenience of the freeway is undeniable, guests should be aware that, as noted by one customer, some highway noise may be audible at the campsites.

Its proximity to Meridian means campers have quick access to essential services and attractions, including grocery stores, dining, and cultural sites like the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience. The campground is also a short drive from other popular outdoor destinations in the area, such as Bonita Lakes Park and the Okatibbee Lake recreational area, making it a great central point for exploring East Mississippi's parks and waterways.

**Services Offered**

Lake Tom Bailey Campground provides a select range of services focused on supporting RV and fishing activities, managed directly by the state's wildlife agency.

• **Developed Campsites (22 Pads):** The campground features 22 developed camping pads suitable for RVs, trailers, and tents.
• **Water and Electrical Hookups:** All 22 developed sites are equipped with water and electrical hookups (some sources indicate 20 Amp service, calling ahead is advised for confirmation).
• **Restrooms with Showers:** The park offers restrooms that include shower facilities, an important amenity for campers, although their cleanliness can vary as noted in some user feedback.
• **Primitive Camping:** In addition to the developed sites, the park also offers areas for primitive (tent) camping.
• **Boat Ramp:** A single, easily accessible boat ramp is available for launching fishing and recreational boats onto the 182-acre lake.
• **Fishing Piers:** Two public fishing piers extend into the lake, offering excellent bank fishing access.
• **Sanitary Dump Station:** A dump station is available for RVs, completing the necessary facilities for self-contained camping.
• **Picnic Facilities:** The area includes little areas with benches, picnic tables, and barbecue grills for day use and campers.

**Features / Highlights**

The key attractions and features of Lake Tom Bailey are overwhelmingly focused on its aquatic and recreational value, making it a favorite for the Mississippi fishing community.

• **Exceptional Fishing:** The lake is regionally famous, stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and redear sunfish (bream). It is recognized for its large bream and holds the state record for Channel Catfish (51.75 lbs).
• **Long Fishing Pier:** The **"long pier was cool to fish from,"** providing substantial space for anglers to spread out and enjoy deep-water access without a boat.
• **Affordable Day Use:** The area is clean and really pretty, offering low-cost access for fishing (typically $5 per person for bank fishing and a slightly higher fee for boats).
• **MDWFP Management:** Being managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks ensures the lake and its fish population are actively monitored and conserved, guaranteeing a high-quality fishing experience.
• **Open Recreational Fields:** There is a **"big open field area where kids can play or have a picnic,"** making it a family-friendly destination beyond just camping and fishing.
• **Year-Round Operation:** The campground is typically open all year, providing flexibility for seasonal camping trips.

**Contact Information**

For the most current information regarding camping fees, fishing regulations, and facility status, it is best to contact the Lake Tom Bailey office directly.

Address:

**3222 Northshore Dr, Toomsuba, MS 39364, USA**

Phone:

** (601) 632-4679 **

Mobile Phone:

** +1 601-632-4679 **

**What Is Worth Choosing**

For Mississippi locals, Lake Tom Bailey is worth choosing primarily for its **unbeatable value as a fishing and RV destination**. If you are an angler looking for a beautiful, well-stocked public lake with convenient access and you own an RV or trailer, this campground checks all the major boxes.

The presence of 22 developed pads with electricity and water, combined with an accessible boat ramp and long fishing piers, means you can maximize your time fishing and minimize setup hassle. Furthermore, its management by the MDWFP provides assurance that the lake itself is a priority. While the review mentioning restroom issues is a necessary caution, the strength of the location—a peaceful, scenic lakefront setting near major interstate travel routes—outweighs the occasional maintenance shortfall for many RV and fishing enthusiasts. It offers an affordable, state-supported way for Mississippi families and travelers to connect with the state’s beautiful natural resources and enjoy some of the best fishing the region has to offer. Just be sure to call ahead to inquire about the current status of restroom facilities and note that the experience is primarily geared toward self-contained RVs and not fully featured for tent camping.