5 Things to Do in Bay St. Louis While Camping

The Bay St. Louis Beach along the scenic highway across from Christ Episcopal Church.

When you think about beaches, does your mind drift to thoughts of white sands and blue water of the Carribean or Florida?  South Mississippi offers beautiful quiet beaches along the sleepy stretch of scenic highway between Bay St. Louis and Waveland.  This well-kept secret has something to offer for any traveler.  We spent our first camping trip of 2018 at Buccaneer State Park.  And, we will definitely be going back!

We set out on a trip with only a reserved camping spot and no agenda.  In return, we discovered a well-deserved break and a relaxing getaway only a short car ride from home.  If you are short on time and are open to what the day brings, here are 5 simple things you can enjoy in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.

1.  Buccaneer State Park

Post Katrina reconstruction makes this state park a gem.  You can choose from the sites directly across from the Gulf.  Or, you can select a secluded, wooded spot in the rear of the park.  A large playground, swimming pool, and water park are some of the amenities this state park has to offer.  The water park and pool are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.  So, be aware of this when making your plans.

The large playground is well kept and offers lots of choices for children to play.

You can purchase your ice there as needed during your stay.  Laundry facilities are also located onsite.  You will need to bring your own firewood.  We purchased a couple of bundles from Claiborne Hill Supermarket on Highway 90.  Pick it up on the way to the park to save yourself a trip!

There are lots of campers that secure spots to flee from cold northern winters.  The mild Mississippi weather we have in winter and early spring is appealing to many.  Early March, will have temperatures in the 40's at night and 60's during the day.  But, on sunny days, the even cool weather is nice.

2.  Gulf Beaches

The stretch of scenic highway between Bay St. Louis and Waveland is lined with long, wide sidewalks.  You will see lots of walkers, joggers, and bikers most any time of day.  The beaches are clean with easy access.  You can find roadside parking at some locations.  There is also a fishing pier with parking on the edge of Bay St. Louis near Christ Episcopal Church.

Christ Episcopal Church at the edge of Bay St. Louis

We spent quite a lot of time walking along the beach and playing in the sand.  The water was cold during our stay, but the edge of the water was still nice to enjoy the sand on our feet.  We built sand castles and waded along the water during the warmest parts of the day.  This was a highlight for our son!

Playing in the sand provided lots of entertainment for our preschooler!  I enjoyed laying in the sun for a relaxing break.

3.  Purple Banana

If you are looking for an afternoon excursion and change of scenery, go into town to the Purple Banana.  They offer both ice cream and frozen yogurt.  There is also a list of snack and meal options if you prefer to have lunch there.

Afternoon treats at the Purple Banana

There are both indoor and outdoor seating options available.  We sat outside at a picnic table with our little dog and enjoyed the sun.  If you can guess the weight of your frozen yogurt, you receive it for free.  I was 1 ounce off when I guessed, but it was fun to give it a try.

4.  Bodega Bikes

For the outdoor enthusiast, rent a bike, kayak, or golf cart to explore around town while there.  Bike rentals start at $17 a day.  They have a nice selection of beach bikes.  There are also trailers for children that you can add to your rental.

Bodega Bikes in Bay. St. Louis

The staff is friendly and helpful.  This shop is located just a few doors down from the Purple Banana.  It is just a few steps from the beach.  You could use a bike to go across the pedestrian bridge that joins Bay St. Louis to Pass Christian or to leisurely enjoy the beaches along the sidewalks that stretch for several miles.  Or, if you are looking for an afternoon of shopping and browsing around town bike it.

5.  The Blind Tiger

We cook almost every meal at our campsite.  However, if you are looking for a meal out, head to The Blind Tiger.  They have a short menu of fresh foods.  Prices are reasonable and the selection offers something for everyone.  There are some staples that are always on the menu.  Additionally, each day there are specials to choose from.

My husband and I both had a special the night we dined there.  The shrimp tacos were perfectly seasoned and well portioned.  These were recommended by the server and did not disappoint.

Our son had his typical chicken tenders.  There was a slight worry when we arrived that they might not have chicken tenders that he had his heart set on.  Our server was quick to check and see if the kitchen could offer this.  And, yes, it all worked out in the end and everyone was happy!

The staff is helpful, young and fun.  The service was great as well as the food.  It is a laid-back place.  And while I was worried about coming in with my camping clothes, it was casual enough for anyone.

Shrimp Tacos at the Blind Tiger

These are only a few of the things that you could do in Bt. St. Louis.  There are lots of shops that you could explore while there.  Visiting in early March is an excellent time to visit.  Restaurants are not crowded.  The weather is nice.  You can enjoy the area like a local.

The view from The Blind Tiger

This was our second trip to camp at Buccaneer State Park.  It was our favorite place that we visited in 2017.  Our trip this year was even more memorable.  If you are looking for somewhere new to explore, try Bay St. Louis.  The Mississippi Gulf Coast is a friendly place to visit with a diverse culture, excellent food, and scenic views.  Camping is my favorite way to enjoy this spot in Mississippi.  We were able to enjoy all that my home state of Mississippi has to offer in the great outdoors!

For more information about Bay St. Louis, visit the Hancock County Visitor's Beaurea.   There is a reason people come back to this area over and over to escape harsh winters and enjoy our state.  If you go once, you will fall in love just like we did.

Be sure to share this post.  If you have things you like to do in Bay St. Louis, be sure to share.  I'd love to hear from you.  As spring will be here in a few days...