Mississippi Field Trips
Natchez Trace Parkway
The 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway commemorates an ancient trail that connected southern portions of the Mississippi River, through Alabama, to salt licks in today's central Tennessee. Today, visitors can experience this National Scenic Byway and All-American Road through driving, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping.
Natchez Trace Parkway
The 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway commemorates an ancient trail that connected southern portions of the Mississippi River, through Alabama, to salt licks in today's central Tennessee. Today, visitors can experience this National Scenic Byway and All-American Road through driving, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping.
Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail
The Old Natchez Trace was a 500-mile footpath that ran through Choctaw and Chickasaw lands connecting Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. You can experience portions of that journey the way earlier travelers did - on foot. Today there are four separate trails totaling 65 miles and they are administered by the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Lake Lowndes - Columbus
Lake Lowndes offers complete recreational facilities for individuals, families and groups. Located on beautiful 150 acre Lake Lowndes, the park offers unlimited opportunities for picnicking, fishing and camping, as well as complete facilities for football, soccer, softball, tennis, basketball, volleyball, disc golf and other organized sports. Mississippi University for Women (The "W") and Mississippi State University (MSU) are just a short drive to the west, making Lake Lowndes State Park the perfect place to stay during a football weekend at MSU or while visiting either campus.
Corinth Civil War Heritage Day and Confederate Memorial Day - Corinth
Annual two-day event to commemorate Confederate Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by our ancestors. We would like for you and your fellow compatriots to join with us in these weekend activities. You will get to camp on the grounds of the Historic Verandah-Curlee House in historic downtown Corinth; Ms. There will be an opportunity to skirmish on some of the same land where the actual fighting took place in October 1862. You will get to experience this fighting in the same place it took place in the Battle of Corinth. April, Check website for details.
Turkey Creek Water Park - Decatur
Open year-round, Turkey Creek Water Park with its 250-acre lake, attracts travelers from many areas. The park is one of the most popular water skiing spots around. This Pat Harrison Water Park boasts excellent bass fishing and offers boat rentals in addition to camping. Known for its conservation program, Turkey Creek is enjoyed by explorers of all ages. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking or biking the park's nature trail teeming with wild flowers, deer, squirrels, ducks, turkeys, and other wildlife. For campers, the park has fully developed camping spurs as well as three new vacation cabins available for rental. Turkey Creek's campgrounds feature a picnic area, and a playground with modern equipment for children of all ages. The park also features a white sand beach, wooded picnic areas, and nature trails.
Holmes County State Park - Durant
The beautiful hardwood forests of Holmes County State Park are home to an abundant of wildlife, and provide the scenic backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities. Built around two lakes covering 88 acres, the park offer such diverse activities as fishing, roller skating, camping and cabin rentals.
Dunn's Fall's Water park - Enterprise
Here, along a shallow stretch of the Chunky River, the bluffs of the eastern bank rise to tree-top level. From this lofty perch, the flowing water of a stream provides a natural source of power , for the working water wheel before making it's sixty to seventy foot decent to the river below. An 1857 grist mill, moved from Cave Springs, Georgia in 1987 and reconstructed on the site of Dunn's original mill, as well as the rustic homestead fascinate history buffs. Stocked with catfish and complete with ducks, the mill pond and a picnic area are a great spot for a family outing. The crystal clear river offers fishing, canoeing and swimming. A short walk removes visitors from even a nod to civilization, as nature trails wind through the woods which are home to wild turkey, deer, squirrels and other wildlife, carrying hikers - eventually - back to the pond.
Shepard State Park - Gautier
Shepard State Park is nestled in the heart of Singing River (Pascagoula River) country, where legend has it that members of the Pascagoula Indian nation linked hands and walked into the Pascagoula River rather than be taken captive by hostile Indian tribes. The mournful death chant they sang as they walked earned the Pascagoula River the nickname "Singing River". Tales of the heroic exploits of French and Spanish settlers and romantic legends of the Pascagoula and Biloxi Indians are standard fare in the scenic coastal area surrounding Shepard State Park.
Hugh White State Park - Grenada
Located on scenic Grenada Lake, Hugh White State Park offers the finest outdoor recreation amenities available, all nestled in a setting unmatched in natural beauty. Grenada Lake is best known as a haven for crappie fishermen, but is also well-stocked with bass, bream and catfish.
Gulf Islands National Seashore - Gulf Breeze
Island beaches, sparkling waters, bayous, historic forts and recreational opportunities are plentiful in Gulf Islands National Seashore, the nation’s largest. Open year-round, the Seashore is in Mississippi and Florida. Gentle breezes, tides and hurricanes constantly reshape this dynamic landscape.
Gulf Islands National Seashore - Gulf Breeze
Beautiful beaches, historic forts and recreational opportunities are plentiful. Open year-round, the Seashore is in Mississippi and Florida. Gulf Islands protects a number of historic fortifications that represent the nation's coastal defense. Take a tour when you visit the Seashore. New, universally-designed exhibits opened at the Fort Barrancas Visitor Center. For information call 850-455-5167.
Lynn Meadows Discovery Center - Gulfport
Learn and Laugh at the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center in Gulfport, Mississippi’s only children’s museum. Visitors can crank a crane, touch a tornado, sort seafood, cross a creek, understand a pulley fully, tromp in treehouses, take tea for two, star on a show and much more. The Discovery Center, located in the former Mississippi City Elementary School, constructed in 1915 and an architectural exhibition itself, offers 15,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space and six acres of outdoor play space that includes Treehouse Village, Bear Creek and picnic areas.
Paul B. Johnson State Park - Hattiesburg
Located in the heart of Mississippi's pine belt region, Paul B. Johnson is the gateway to a natural wonderland marked by majestic long-leaf and loblolly pines, delicate dogwoods and ancient oaks. The deep forests surrounding Paul B. Johnson State Park provide a picturesque setting for a variety of outdoor activities. The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is just a 20-minute drive to the north, making Paul B. Johnson State Park the perfect place to spend a football weekend.
Leroy Percy State Park - Hollandale
The oldest of Mississippi's state parks, Leroy Percy is characterized by artesian springs, cypress trees and ancient oaks dripping with Spanish moss. Leroy Percy is the only state park featuring a wildlife preserve. The seasonal pursuit of deer, squirrel, turkey, duck and dove beckons to hunters in search of an unspoiled hunting area away from the crowd. Leroy Percy is also known for its alligator population - visitors can safely observe the scaly reptiles from two observation towers over their hot artesian water home.
Wall Doxey State Park - Holly Springs
Wall Doxey State Park offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities in a setting rich in natural beauty centered around a 60-acre, spring-fed lake. The University of Mississippi (''Ole Miss") is just a 25-minute drive away, making Wall Doxey State Park the perfect place to spend a football weekend. For a weekend getaway or as a central vacation spot, Wall Doxey State Park is an ideal destination.
J. P. Coleman State Park - Iuka
Perched on a rocky bluff overlooking the Tennessee River, J. P. Coleman State Park offers the finest in all types of water sports. Visitors experience unmatched sailing, swimming, skiing and fishing for Smallmouth bass in the sparkling waters of Pickwick Lake and enjoy camping and exploring in the untamed wilderness along the banks of the Tennessee River.
LeFleur's Bluff State Park Golf Course - Jackson
Nestled away between an elbow of the historic Pearl River and one of its many tributaries, there exists a land hidden from the "concrete jungle" of downtown Jackson. It is a land of beauty and relaxation - it is LeFleur's Bluff golf Course. Rolling fairways, manicured greens, and the absolute best in customer service provide public golfers in and around the Capitol City with a pleasant surprise just a short drive from anywhere. The only State Park golf course in the Greater Jackson Metropolitan area, LeFleur's Bluff offers you an opportunity to play a quick nine holes at the end of the day, introduce the family to the game of golf on our generous practice facility, or even work on your swing during you lunch break.
LeFleur's Bluff - Jackson
LeFleur's Bluff provides a lush green spot in the heart of urban Jackson. In addition to camping, fishing, picnic spots and nature trails, the 305-acre park features a nine-hole golf course and a driving range. The park is named for Louis LeFleur, a French-Canadian explorer who established a trading post on the banks of the Pearl River in the late 1700s. The city of Jackson was originally known as "LeFleur's Bluff". Today Mississippi's vibrant capital city combines the earth and charm of its rich cultural heritage with exciting activities and attractions and contemporary lifestyles. Visitors to Jackson discover a diversity of museums, unlimited shopping and dining, an exciting night life and a calendar of events packed with activities to suit every mood. For the campsite reservations call Lefleur's Office at 601-987-3923
Legion State Park - Louisville
The fourth of the original state parks developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Legion State Park remains as unspoiled today as when the Choctaw Indian Nation first inhabited the area centuries ago. Hidden in the red hills country of Mississippi, Legion State Park strikes the perfect balance of natural beauty and modern comfort with all man-made structures in the park designed to complement the pristine beauty of the area. Of particular interest is Legion Lodge, a hand-hewn log structure that has remained unaltered since its construction in the 1930s.
Little Black Creek Water Park - Lumberton
For a day of fun, the park has picnic areas with tables and barbeque grills. Family picnic pavilions are also available for year-round rental. The park's 600-acre lake is stocked with plenty of catfish, white perch, bream and large-mouth bass. In addition to scenic campsites, the park offers cabins, bungalows and a convenience store. Overnight guests can obtain a permit to fish for their dinner in Lake Catch A-Lot, a pond stocked with channel catfish. The only thing you could wish for is more time to enjoy it all! Each summer, the water park hosts special events such as children's fishing rodeos, open fishing tournaments, and other special events you wouldn't want to miss. A catfish pond is stocked for your fishing enjoyment.
Percy Quin State Park - McComb
Loblolly pines and stately magnolia trees, rolling hills, spectacular wildlife, and seasonal flowers await visitors at Percy Quin State Park. One of the original state parks cleared and constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Percy Quin is today a delightful blend of the old and new. Located just two and a half hours from New Orleans. The 1700 acre Percy Quin State Park, which includes a 700 acre lake and a championship golf course, provides a colorful natural backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.
Okatibbee Water Park - Meridian
A "splash" for the whole family! With 28 miles of shoreline, the 3,800-acre reservoir offer abundant bass fishing year round, as well as water skiing. Splashdown Country's adult and kiddy waterslides are open May through Labor Day, with lifeguards on duty for added safety. The park features fully developed camping spurs, with 50 amp electrical service, for camping enthusiasts. For the slightly less adventurous, four new vacation cabins are available as well as a 25-room motel. For the naturalist, the park is visited each December by the American Bald Eagle.
Roosevelt State Park - Morton
Conveniently located between Meridian and Jackson, Mississippi, Roosevelt State Park offers an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities in a picturesque setting. The park scenic overlook provides a panoramic view of the Bienville National Forest. The gently sloping landscape is particularly striking during the fall, when the forest is bright with autumn color.
Dry Creek Water Park - Mount Olive
Get set for a "good catch". Fishing enthusiasts come from all areas to reel in the great Florida bass, catfish and crappie that are abundant in the park's 150-acre lake. The lake also offers ample opportunity for boating, camping, canoeing, and picnicking. Aluminum boat rentals are available. The quiet and secluded park has campsites with a bathhouse, as well as picnic areas with barbeque grills and picnic tables. For larger groups, a private park pavilion can be reserved.
Natchez State Park - Natchez
Natchez State Park is located just 10 miles north historic Natchez, the oldest settlement on the Mississippi River. Prior to the Civil War, over half of the millionaires in the entire United States lived in Natchez, constructing elegant mansions unrivaled in size and elegance by any in the nation. Most of these splendid homes were spared during the Civil War, and many are now open for tours. Natchez State Park is also famous in its own right. The largest bass in Mississippi history a largemouth weighing 18.15 pounds - was caught in Natchez lake in 1992.
Natchez National Historical Park - Natchez
From the magnificent antebellum estate of John McMurran, to the downtown home of African-American barber and diarist William Johnson, to the French Fort Rosalie, this diverse Mississippi River town has lent itself to opportunity for hundreds of years.
George P Cossar State Park - Oakland
This sits on peninsula point located on the Enid Reservoir in Oakland, MS. This park offers 83 campsites. Yocona Ridge offers 35 waterfront sites, a laundry room, a playground, and a bathhouse. Jones Creek campground offers 48 naturalized wooded camping areas, restrooms, and a small playground. We offer 13 cabins, 2 pavilions, visitor center, putt putt golf course, and an 18 hole disc golf course. The Enid Reservoir is 28,000 acres and holds the world record crappie being caught.
Grand Gulf Military Park - Port Gibson
Park guests can step back in time and relive history as it was made. Beginning at the museum, you can trace the development of Grand Gulf through early photographs, maps, scale models, and authentic artifacts found in the area. Coaches and carriages bear silent witness to the days when Grand Gulf was bustling with people; while Union and Confederate uniforms, cannon balls, and muskets remain to tell of the fierce fighting that took place during the latter stage of the Civil War.
Virtual field trip online
Archusa Creek Water Park - Quitman
The 450 acre lake is a fisherman's paradise with large quantities of bass, catfish, perch and bream. The whole family can enjoy camping, boating, swimming, water skiing and picnicking. The picnic areas are equipped with barbecue grills and family-size picnic tables. In the fall of each year, the water park hosts its annual Forestry and Wildlife Festival featuring chainsaw sculpting, races, special events and activities for all ages. The blue green waters and piney woods provide relaxation for campers and fishermen year round. Other activities include a Dixie Youth baseball field, a disc (frisbee) golf course, a playground for the children, and a one-half mile nature trail for nature lovers.
Clarkco State Park - Quitman
Located just south of Meridian, Mississippi near the Mississippi-Alabama state line, Clarkco State Park has been favorite Mississippi recreation spot since 1938. Situated on 815 acres of gently rolling woodlands, Clarkco State Park offers camping, cabin rentals and water sports in a convenient yet unspoiled location, providing the perfect retreat for an afternoon or weekend getaway.
Great River Road State Park - Rosedale
Great River Road State Park offers magnificent views of the "Fathers of Waters" from a setting unmatched in natural beauty. The focal point of the park is a 75-foot high overlook tower, which provides panoramic views of the Mississippi River as well as being the ideal spot for a picnic. The park is named for the Great River Road, a scenic parkway that follows the Mississippi from its beginning as a small Canadian creek to its end at the Gulf of Mexico.
John W. Kyle State Park - Sardis
Located on scenic Sardis Reservoir just one hour south of Memphis. John W. Kyle State Park offers a wide array of recreational opportunities in an area abundant in natural beauty. The historic campus of the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) is just 25 miles away, making John W. Kyle state Park the perfect spot to spend a football weekend.
Big Creek Water Park - Soso
Visitors from many areas are attracted to the beautiful countryside and abundant fishing waters of Big Creek Water Park. Bass, bream, crappie and catfish abound in the 200-acre lake, making for good fishing, and the rolling green countryside is a treat for the eyes. One of Big Creek's claims to fame is that it is home to one of the oldest cedars in the state of Mississippi. History lovers will enjoy exploring the historic cemetery where the first homesteaders of the area are buried. The whole family can enjoy camping at this Pat Harrison Water Park, with fully developed camping spurs, or for those who prefer a few conveniences, the park has two cabins and two camphouses. The unique beach area makes for pleasant swimming, and the picnic area is equipped with barbeque grills and family picnic tables. Aluminum boat rental is available year-round.
Tishomingo State Park - Tishomingo State Park
Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Tishomingo State Park is steeped in history and scenic beauty. Archaeological excavations confirm the presence of Paleo Indians in the area now encompassed by the park as early as 7000 B. C.; the park takes its name from the leader of the Chickasaw nation, Chief Tishomingo. The famous Natchez Trace Parkway, the premier highway of the early 1800s and a modern scenic parkway, runs directly through the park. Today's visitors to Tishomingo State Park discover the same timeless natural beauty that enchanted the Indians centuries ago. Tishomingo offers a unique landscape of massive rock formations and fern-filled crevices found nowhere else in Mississippi. Massive boulders blanketed in moss dot the hillsides, and colorful wildflowers border trails once walked by Native Americans.
Tombigbee State Park - Tombigbee
Tombigbee State Park offers the finest in outdoor recreation opportunities just minutes from one of Mississippi premier shopping, dining and entertainment areas. Tupelo is the site of the bi-annual Tupelo Furniture Market, home of the Elvis Presley Birthplace; and the headquarters of the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Trace State Park - Trace
Trace State Park offers a quiet, natural retreat and a variety of outdoor activities ranging from fishing and water sports to exploring miles of secluded nature trails. A special arrangement with the Pontotoc Country Club allows Trace State Park guests to enjoy the club's 18-hole golf course without paying green fees.
Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site - Tupelo
The Confederate victory at Brices Cross Roads was a significant victory for Major General Nathan Bedford Forrest, but its long term effect on the war proved costly for the Confederates. Brices Cross Roads is an excellent example of winning the battle, but losing the war.
Tupelo National Battlefield - Tupelo
In June of 1864, Maj. Gen. William Sherman successfully kept Maj. Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest's cavalry corps in Mississippi at the Battle of Brices Cross Roads and away from the Federal supply line in Tennessee. To keep Forrest there in July, Sherman had to order another attack.
Army of Mississippi School of the Battery - Utica
Event at the 160 year old plantation used by Gen. McPherson before his march to Raymond. Infantry and Cavalry also welcome. November - check website for details!
Vicksburg National Military Park - Vicksburg
Vicksburg National Military Park commemorates the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg. Vicksburg was a fortress located on high ground guarding the Mississippi River. Its surrender on July 4, 1863, coupled with the fall of Port Hudson, Louisiana, divided the South, and gave the North undisputed control of the Mississippi River. The Vicksburg battlefield includes 1,330 monuments and markers, a 16 mile tour road, a restored Union gunboat, and a National Cemetery.
Maynor Creek Water Park - Waynesboro
One of Pat Harrison's most colorful Water Parks, Maynor Creek Water Park is located six miles west of Waynesboro, Mississippi, off Highway 84. Fishing buffs cast for bream, catfish, crappie and Florida bass in the park's 450-acre lake. Dogwoods and magnolias bloom in the spring and fall paints the hickories in glorious autumn colors. The challenging waters of Maynor Creek flow clear and bright in the summer and fall, and full and brown in the winter and spring. Camping, boating, swimming, water skiing and picnicking are all part of the family fun at Maynor Creek. Maynor Creek Park has three cabins and two bungalows for rental. Aluminum boat rentals and family picnic pavilions are also available.
Lake Lincoln State Park - Wesson
Nestled in the shade of towering hardwood trees, Lake Lincoln State Park is the quintessence of serenity. Located in the northeast corner of Lincoln County, the park's close proximity to Interstate 55, U. S. Highway 51 and State Highway 27 provide easy access for visitors.
Flint Creek Water Park - Wiggins
Offers water fun for the whole family. The park is comprised of 1900 total acres and features a 600-acre lake with 13 miles of shoreline stocked with bass, bream, crappie and catfish offering excellent fishing 24-hours a day. The lake is also a favorite for boating, water skiing and swimming. Aluminum boat rentals are available. Flint Creek's Water Town with kiddy waterslides and four adult giant waterslides, is open most of the year.