George P. Cossar State Park

Situated on the shores of Enid Lake, George Payne Cossar State Park is a sportsman's paradise. Most of the land around the lake and in nearby Holly Springs National Forest is open for public hunting, and is abundant in variety of game. Hunters are not the only sportsmen who will find their quarry in the area. The world record crappie, weighing in at over five pounds, was pulled from the waters of Enid Lake. These excellent hunting and fishing opportunities, combined with a variety of recreational opportunities and scenic natural beauty, make George Payne Cossar State Park the perfect family vacation spot.

Amenities

Park Directions
Google Map Directions (link)
Park Directions (PDF Download)

Area Attractions
The following attractions are located within a short drive of George Payne Cossar State Park. The park staff will be happy to provide you with directions.

• The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
• Holly Springs National Forest
• Fiddlin' Rooster Farm
• North Mississippi Fish Hatchery and Visitor Education Center
• Malmaison Wildlife Management Area
• O'Keefe Wildlife Management Area

Developed Camping
The 76 sites available for developed camping feature picnic tables, grills, electrical, water and sewage hook-ups. Two bathhouses with hot showers are located in the developed camping area, and a laundry facility is available in the Yocona Ridge Campground. Reservations are highly recommended in Yocona Ridge Campgournd's 35 campsites and are available for up to 24 months by reservation, Jones Creek Campround 41 campsites are walk up only (first come first serve basis).  Monthly camping may be available.  Please check with the park office for availability. 

Cabins
George Payne Cossar State Park features 13 air-conditioned cabins, each accommodating four to six people and furnished with bed and bath linens, basic kitchen equipment, utensils, and dishware. Cabins feature fireplaces, screened-in porches, and afford beautiful shaded views of Enid Lake.  Reservations are strongly recommended and are available for up to 24-months.  Smoking is not allowed in any Mississippi government building (including cabins).
Cabin Brochure (PDF download)

Group Camp
The group camp is designed to accommodate groups up to a maximum of 26 people. Dorm guests must furnish their own bed linens and bath accessories. Meals are availble through park restaurant. Fees are charged per person, per meal, and lodging per night. Call the park office for booking information, reservations may be made for up to 24-months in advance.

Pool (Seasonal) (CLOSED for 2012 Season)
A swimming pool is located near the Family Cabin Area and Visitor's Center. The pool complex has shower facilities. The pool is operated Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. CLOSED on Mondays and Tuesdays each week, unless a holiday falls on one of these days. A fee is charged. Traditionally lifeguards are school aged and days of operation will be dictated by school schedule (Inquire at Park Office for any changes to normal days and hours of operations).

Visitor/Activity Building
The Visitor's Center houses the park office, a concession stand, and a large meeting/banquet room overlooking Enid Lake. Contact the park office for specific information on facilities, seating capacity, and costs (662) 623-7356.

Picnic Area/Pavilion
A spacious shaded area overlooking Enid Lake and featuring tables and grills is available for picnicking. Two large picnic pavilions are available by reservation, providing the perfect spot for a family reunion, company picnic, or church or school outing.  Reservations may be made up to 24-months in advance by contacting the park office.

Nature Trail
A 2.5 mile nature trail begins at the boat ramp overlooking Enid Lake and winds through a mixed pine and hardwood forest, providing a close look at the natural beauty, flora, and fauna found in the park.

Playground
Several playgrounds are also located throughout the Park.

Miniature Golf
An 18-hole miniature golf course is located near the Visitor's Center. A fee is charged.  Balls and clubs may be rented at the park office.

Boat Launching
Enid Lake offers 28,000 acres of fresh water for fishing and water sports. Ramps are provided for those who wish to launch their own boats.
Alert: Enid Lake water levels are controlled by the US Army Corp Engineers.  Generally the lake is lowered for flood control starting on July 1 to January 1 and starts its rise back to recreation pool level. Many boat lauch ramps are inoperale during this time however, there are always low water ramps on the lake that are useable and available.  You can view current lake levels at www.mvk.usace.army.mil/lakes/ms/enid/ or by contacting the park office at 662-623-7356. 

Water skiing
Water skiing is permitted, and launch ramps are available.

Fishing
The world record crappie, weighing in at five pounds, three ounces, was caught in Enid Lake in 1954. Bass, bream, and catfish are also plentiful. A Mississippi fishing license is required for all persons between the ages of 16 and 65. Licenses may be purchased at the park office for a nominal fee.  Enid Lake offers 28,000 acres of fresh water for fishing and water sports.
Weekly Fishing Report (MDWFP link)
Fishing License Information (MDWFP link)

Laundry Facilities
Laundry facilities are available in the Jones Creek Campground.

Disc Golf
Eagle Crest Course is a 18 hole disc golf course starts and ends near the Visitor's Center.  The course is open to the public, free of charge, however, the normal entrance fee is required. Disc can be rented or purchased from the park office.

Day Use
A day use entry fee is charged on a per vehicle basis.

Worship Services
Non-denominational Sunday worship services are held in the outdoor amphitheater during the summer season.