10 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do at a Mississippi State Park
7/3/2019 9:12:19 AM
From MDWFP
Fourth of July celebrations at Roosevelt and Paul B. Johnson state parks
Roosevelt and Paul B. Johnson State Parks host annual Fourth of July Celebrations with Fireworks Shows. Roosevelt State Park also hosts an annual boat parade.
Hold family reunions and weddings
Several of Mississippi’s State Parks have meeting rooms, cabins, and other facilities to hold family reunions. Our most popular parks for family reunions include Percy Quin, Paul B. Johnson, Clarkco, Roosevelt, Tombigbee, and John Kyle state parks. Reservations for reunions and weddings should be coordinated with the respective park office.
Swim in the state’s largest wave pool at Buccaneer State Park
Buccaneer Bay Water Park at Buccaneer State Park in Waveland features the largest wave pool in the state at 460,000 gallon, 17,400 square feet. This wavepool is a perfect place for tubing, body surfing, playing in the whitecaps or just relaxing in the rolling action of the waves without the sand and sea critters. The water park is open daily throughout the summer from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. through Labor Day.
Ride ATV trails at Trace State Park
Trace State Park in Belden features 35 miles of trails that can be utilized by ATV's. Helmets are required for any ORV. No double riding is permitted unless rated so by the manufacturer of vehicle. Persons operating or riding on an ATV must possess a valid driver's licenses or possess an All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Course Certificate.
Horseback riding at Trace State Park and Lake Lowndes State Park
Trace State Park in Beldin and Lake Lowndes State Park in Columbus features trails for horseback riding. These trails are also great for mountain biking. A horse barn for overnight accommodations is also available at Trace State Park, but be sure to contact the park office in advance.
Rock climbing at Tishomingo State Park
Tishomingo State Park offers one of the few places in Mississippi where you can experience rock climbing on the natural terrain. Rock climbing is available by permit only. Participants must provide their own equipment and secure a permit at the park office prior to engaging in any climbing activities. Climbing Guides are available for purchase at the Park Office. Helmets are required.
See waterfalls at Clark Creek Natural Area
Clark Creek Natural Area in Woodville is highlighted by some 50 waterfalls, ranging in size 10 to more than 30 feet in height. Creation and protection of this fabulous area came about in 1978. The park has both primitive and improved trails. The primitive trail is approximately 2.6 miles and usually takes 3–5 hours to complete. Unlike the primitive trail, the improved trails have been paved with pea gravel and include steep wooden stairs.
Catch smallmouth bass at J.P. Coleman State Park
There are opportunities to catch smallmouth bass at Pickwick Lake at J.P. Coleman State Park in Iuka. Park visitors can also experience unmatched sailing, swimming, and skiing at Pickwick Lake.
Watch snappy sync firefiles at Wall Doxey State Park
During May and early June, visitors at Wall Doxey State Park in Holly Springs can get a glimpse of Snappy Sync fireflies. Wall Doxey is one of the few places in the world with fireflies that synchronize their flashing light patterns.
Kayak Bear Creek at Tishomingo State Park
Winding through Tishomingo State Park is Bear Creek, a scenic stream settled within the bluffs of the park. The park offers a 6.25-mile canoe float trip down the rocky-bottomed stream. The float trip operates daily from mid-April until mid-October, (weather and water level permitting).
