Marathon Lake

3451 County Road 520
Raleigh, MS 39153

Overview

This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.

If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

Recreation

Marathon Lake provides various recreational oppurtunties. This includes activities such as biking, hiking, boating, picnicking, fishing, camping, swimming, wildlife viewing, and volleyball.

Facilities

34 campsites with water and electricity
14 picnick tables
Sand volleyball court (no ball provided)
BBQ grills
2 Pavilions (can be reserved for groups, please call local Forest Service Office at 601-469-3811)
Boat Launch
Swimming area with sandy beach
Hiking Trail (1.7 miles in length)
Water fountains
Sanitation facilities with showers and flush toilets
Dump station for trash

Natural Features

Marathon Lake is a 50-acre lake located in Smith County. It got its' name from Marathon Lumber Company which closed in 1929. You will enjoy the beauty and seclusion of this quiet campground located approximately 15 miles southeast of Forest, MS and 25 miles northeast of Raleigh, MS. Marathon Recreation area is equipped with 34 camping sites (with water and electric hook-ups), boat ramp, swimming area, 2 bath houses (warm showers), picnic shelters, picnic tables and a hiking trail. The lake has been stocked with catfish, bass and crappie and is open to bream fishing. A dump station is available. The area has a volunteer Campground Host on site most of the time.

Contact Info

This location is staffed. Please call (601) 469-3811 to speak with local staff.

Camp site features

Across 34 camp sites:

ADA accessible: 24 of 34 sites

Directions

From Forest, go south on Hwy 35 for 8.5 miles to Homewood. Turn east on Morton-Marathon Road and go 9 miles. Turn south on Forest Service Road 520 and go ½ mile to entrance. Another route would be to go south on Hwy 501. Turn east on Morton-Marathon Rd. and go 3 ½ miles. Turn onto FS Rd 520 and go ½ mile to entrance. From Raleigh, go north on Hwy 35 for 15 miles to Homewood and follow same directions above from Homewood. An alternate route is to take Hwy 18 east to Hwy 501; go north 15 miles: turn east onto Morton-Marathon to FS Rd 520. Physical Address: 3451 CR 520 Raleigh, MS 39153

Stay Limit

Check in from 2 PM, check out by 11 AM.

Reviews

7 reviews

5 stars

Gary J

Loop:Scan and Pay

Site:

Reviewed 10 months ago

Wonderfully quiet. Clean and well kept

Trae R

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Site:

Reviewed a year ago

Love staying here! Beautiful place.

Teresa B

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Site:

Reviewed 2 years ago

This camp ground was soooo peaceful and quiet. It seems like its in the middle of nowhere, which was great but also slightly creepy because I was all by myself. I stopped on my way to and from Texas for an event. I will drive the 12 hours again to go to this camp ground again. Almost nooooo cell service so know that and be prepared before you arrive. If you like to fish, definitely bring your gear to fish.

Wilson L

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Site:

Reviewed 2 years ago

Love it!

Linda S

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Site:

Reviewed 3 years ago

Beautiful peaceful and very clean place. Will be back

Enrique/ Whitney T

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Site:

Reviewed 3 years ago

Great camping spot, views, and friendly host. The bathrooms could you a good power washing on a regular to get rid of all the insects that get in.

Availability

See the Camp Sites section below to find detailed booking availability.

Reserve Watch

Camp Sites

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