Okatibbee Park

For Mississippi residents seeking a superb outdoor retreat, **Okatibbee Park** stands as a major recreation hub just a stone's throw from Meridian. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), the park centers around the expansive **Okatibbee Lake**, a 3,800-acre reservoir created primarily for flood control but now serving as a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and camping. With approximately 28 miles of shoreline, the area provides a blend of water-based excitement and tranquil wooded surroundings, making it a valuable asset to the Lauderdale County community.

The main camping area, **Twiltley Campground**, is the focal point for overnight stays, offering essential amenities for both RV and tent campers. The entire project is part of an 11,000-acre multi-purpose area, ensuring a wide array of activities beyond just setting up camp. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to battle the abundant bass and crappie, a family looking for a scenic picnic spot by the water, or a wildlife enthusiast hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic American Bald Eagle that visits the area in December, Okatibbee Park promises a rewarding East Mississippi outdoor experience. While the park is noted for its fantastic natural environment and potential for fun, visitors should manage expectations regarding infrastructure, as some facilities and pads may show signs of age.

Okatibbee Park boasts an accessible yet secluded location, positioned about seven miles **northwest of Meridian, Mississippi**. This makes it an easy drive for a weekend trip from Meridian, Jackson, and other central and eastern MS communities. The park is situated along Okatibbee Creek and the beautiful Okatibbee Lake, providing a clear escape into nature without being overly remote.

The official address for the main campground area is straightforward to navigate. Visitors will typically approach the area via State Highway 19 North before turning onto Pine Springs Road. The easy access by RVs, trailers, and other motorized vehicles is a significant advantage, and on-site parking is provided at all campgrounds and day-use areas. While the natural surroundings offer a peaceful atmosphere, the close proximity to Meridian ensures that any needed supplies, from groceries to last-minute gear, are within a short driving distance.

**Note to Visitors:** While the overall location is highly desirable for lake access, campers should be aware of the natural environment; water levels in the lake can fluctuate, and some campsites may present unique challenges, such as the placement of utility connections, which may require you to bring an **extra-long sewer or water hose**.

The core camping area, Twiltley Campground, provides a full-service experience managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, focusing on essential utilities and practical conveniences for campers.

• **Campsite Capacity:** Twiltley Campground offers approximately **64 campsites** for RV, trailer, and tent camping.
• **Utility Hookups:** Most RV sites are equipped with **electric and water hookups**, with many also featuring **sewer hookups** (full hookups), including 30 Amp and 50 Amp electrical services.
• **Sanitary Facilities:** **Restrooms and shower facilities** are available on-site, providing necessary comfort for all guests.
• **Boat Ramps:** Multiple **boat ramps** are maintained across the Okatibbee Lake parks, ensuring easy water access for boaters and anglers.
• **Water-based Recreation:** Designated **swimming areas** are available within the park's day-use sections, allowing for safe enjoyment of the clear lake waters.
• **Laundry & Communication:** A **pay phone** and on-site **washer and dryers** are generally available for extended stays.
• **Waste Management:** A central **sanitary dump station** is provided for the convenient disposal of waste.

Okatibbee Park's greatest value lies in the expansive recreational opportunities afforded by the surrounding lake and wildlife management area, making it a true outdoor playground.

• **Premier Fishing Lake:** The 3,800-acre Okatibbee Lake is known for its **abundant bass fishing** (including largemouth and striped), **crappie, catfish, and bream**. The COE manages the lake's resources for year-round angling success.
• **Water Sports Galore:** With over 4,000 acres of water surface and six boat ramps, the lake is perfect for **boating, sailing, jet skiing, and water skiing** (although there are no specifically designated ski areas or times).
• **Wildlife and Bird Watching:** The area is a haven for wildlife. Bird-watchers often spot **eagles and hawks**, and the famous **American Bald Eagle** visits the area each December.
• **Extensive Hunting Area:** Over **6,000 acres** of land are leased to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, offering excellent opportunities for **deer, squirrel, waterfowl, and turkey hunting** (with required permits).
• **Day-Use Amenities:** The four day-use parks (including Pine Springs, Collinsville, and others) offer reserved **picnic shelters, tables, grills, and playground equipment** for family gatherings and picnics by the lake.
• **Recreational Courts and Trails:** Facilities include **ball fields, volleyball areas, and horseshoe pits**, along with various **nature trails** for hiking and nature observation.

For reservations, general park rules, or to inquire about current conditions like water levels, please use the official contact details for Okatibbee Park.

**Address:** 9283 Pine Springs Rd, Meridian, MS 39305, USA

**Phone:** (601) 737-2370

**Mobile Phone:** +1 601-737-2370

Okatibbee Park, with the main campground at Twiltley Branch, is worth choosing for the sheer scale and variety of **water and wildlife recreation** it offers. The 3,800-acre lake is the star attraction, providing exceptional fishing and boating that rivals any other Corps of Engineers project in Mississippi. Local users choose this park because it offers a true, immersive outdoor experience where you can launch a boat, cast a line, and hunt or view wildlife all within the same vast recreation area.

The commitment to providing essential services—like **full hookups** (electric, water, and sewer), paved sites, and on-site laundry—makes it a highly practical choice for RV travelers and extended-stay campers. You get the benefit of a spacious, natural environment under the COE’s management.

**A Factual Consideration for Campers:** It is important to acknowledge, based on user feedback, that some of the park’s infrastructure, including **RV pads and bathroom facilities**, may be older and sometimes fall short of modern resort-style expectations. Some pads are noted as being small or crumbling, and the placement of sewer connections can occasionally be inconvenient, requiring **extra hose length**. However, those who visit Okatibbee are often drawn by the unparalleled lake access and the abundant recreational activities, prioritizing nature and function over perfect aesthetics. If your main goal is fantastic Mississippi lake life, a convenient place to stay with necessary hookups, and a true sense of the outdoors, Okatibbee Park remains a great local choice.