Camping at Dewayne Hayes Recreation Area

Overview

The Dewayne Hayes Recreation Area is situated along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway near Columbus, Mississippi. This scenic area offers various outdoor activities, including camping, boating, fishing, and hiking. It's a family-friendly destination with amenities and services to accommodate campers of all experience levels.

Camping Details

Facilities:

• The Dewayne Hayes Recreation Area includes multiple camping sites, many of which have electric and water hookups suitable for both tents and RVs.
• Visitors have access to restrooms with showers, picnic tables, grills, and playgrounds for children.

Reservation:

• Camping spots can be reserved in advance, particularly for the busier seasons and holidays when the park is most popular.
• Reservations can typically be made online through recreation.gov or by calling the park office directly.

Cost:

• The cost of camping at Dewayne Hayes Recreation Area varies based on the type of site (primitive or with hookups) and the time of year.
• Campers should check the current rates on the official website or by contacting the recreation area directly.

Activities

Boating and Fishing:

• The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway is known for excellent boating and fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to catch species like catfish, bass, and crappie.
• There are boat ramps available for easy waterway access.

Trails:

• For those who enjoy hiking, there are trails that meander through the natural landscape, offering peaceful walks and the chance to observe local wildlife.

Wildlife Watching:

• The area is a habitat for a variety of wildlife, so bring your binoculars for bird watching and possibly spotting other local fauna.

Other Amenities

Playground:

• Younger visitors will enjoy the playground areas designated for children.

Day-Use Areas:

• For those who are not camping overnight, there are day-use areas where visitors can enjoy picnicking and relaxing by the waterway.

Accessibility:

• The recreation area strives to accommodate visitors with disabilities, but it's advisable to contact the park in advance to ensure specific needs can be met.

Rules and Regulations

Campsite Etiquette:

• To ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, campers are expected to follow campsite etiquette, which includes keeping noise to a minimum, respecting the wildlife, and maintaining clean sites.

Fire Safety:

• If fires are permitted, they must be contained in designated fire rings or grills, and campers must always be vigilant about extinguishing fires completely before leaving them unattended.

Pets:

• Pets are allowed but must be kept on leashes and are not allowed in swimming areas.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

• The weather can vary significantly with the seasons. It's essential to check the forecast and be prepared for hot and humid conditions in the summer, and cooler temperatures during the off-season.
• Certain facilities may be closed during the off-season, so verify what services and amenities will be available during your visit.

Contact Information

• For the most current information and to make reservations, campers should contact the Dewayne Hayes Recreation Area directly or visit the official Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway National Recreation Area website.