MDWFP News

Mississippi’s State Parks conjure up thoughts of nature trails, campgrounds, and maybe even disc golf — but do not overlook the fun to be had on the water. From boating and water skiing to splash pads and slides, get ready to get wet at the parks’ many attractions.

 

BUCCANEER STATE PARK

LOCATION: Waveland

WATER FEATURE: Water Park and Camp Pool

HOURS: May 27 to August 1: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, 7 days a week

August 1 to September 4: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday only

ADMISSION: Click here for pricing

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is home to Buccaneer Bay, a 4.5-acre water park located across from the Gulf of Mexico. Buccaneer Bay has Pirate’s Lagoon, a wave pool featuring six-foot waves and eight different surf patterns. Up for more adventure? Climb the tower and careen down Pirate's Plank, an enclosed water slide built for speed, or Pirate’s Plunge, a twisting, turning body slide.

Buccaneer State Park is now hiring summer lifeguards. Applications can be picked up in person at the park.  

Buccaneer Bay has Pirate's Lagoon, a wave pool featuring six-foot waves and eight different surf patterns.

We are excited to announce two new exciting amenities that are sure to make your next visit even more memorable! Splash Island, Buccaneer Bay's newest addition, features three waterslides, 26 interactive spray features, and two giant tipping buckets! That's not all - overlooking Splash Island are six luxurious cabanas that are available for rent. Watch the kids play as you relax and unwind in your own shaded piece of paradise. 

Back again this summer are the iconic Pirate's Lagoon Wave Pool, Pirate's Plunge and Pirate's Plank Waterslides, and Lil Smuggler's Cove.

   

Lil’ Smuggler’s Cove offers a children’s water playground complete with sprays and tipping buckets. Treasure Island is a giant sun deck and lounge area that seems to be a perfect spot to relax and catch some rays.

Buccaneer Bay is a prime spot for birthday parties and special occasions, with Crow's Nest pavilion available for rent.

Overlooking the gulf is the park’s campground, home to Castaway Cove, a smaller, circular pool that features waterfalls.

Click here for more information on all the amenities at Buccaneer Bay Waterpark!

 

CLARKCO STATE PARK

LOCATION: Quitman

WATER FEATURE: Splash Pad

HOURS: Starting Memorial Day weekend, open seven days a week until Weekdays: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

ADMISSION: Gatehouse entry of $2.00 per person

Located about 15 minutes south of Meridian, this park has been a family favorite since it was built in 1938.

“There’s a lot of history here,” said Manager Tony Fleming. “We have families who have come back year after year for more than 70 years.”

In addition to the splash zone, another main draw is the 65-acre Ivy Lake, which offers fishing, boating, water skiing, swimming, and more.

There are plenty of water-related activities at Clarkco State Park, including a splash pad that is open daily.

 

 

 

J.P. COLEMAN STATE PARK

LOCATION: Iuka

WATER FEATURE: Pool

HOURS: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Thursday-Sunday

*Memorial Day Weekend -- Pool will be open Saturday - Monday

POOL ADMISSION: Ages 0 to 3: $3.00, ages 4 to 12: $4.00, ages 13 and up: $6.00

Not only is there a camp pool at J.P. Coleman State Park, but visitors also have access to Pickwick Lake.

Perched above the Tennessee River, J.P. Coleman State Park has unmatched sailing, water skiing, and fishing in the sparkling water of Pickwick Lake. Rent a pontoon boat from nearby vendors and explore all the fun Pickwick Lake has to offer with waterfalls, chalk mines, Goat Island, and more.

“It’s the prettiest lake in the state to me,” said Manager Gary Ray. “Fishing is huge. We have pleasure boats, jet skis, water skiing — even some flyboarding.”

 

 

 

PAUL B. JOHNSON STATE PARK

LOCATION: Hattiesburg

WATER FEATURE: Splash Zone

HOURS: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, 7 days a week

SPLASH ZONE ADMISSION: Ages 3 to 15: $6.00, ages 16 and up: $8.00

Are you looking for a way to beat the heat this summer? Take your pick of fun at Paul B Johnson State Park. The Splash Zone and Geiger Lake provide visitors twice the opportunity to cool off and have a blast with friends and family.

Geiger Lake is a 300-acre, well-stocked lake that provides anglers and boating enthusiasts the perfect getaway. Visitors also enjoy water skiing and hanging out on one of the park's two beaches.

Another attraction is the 5,000-square-foot splash pad featuring 37 water sprays and jets, water cannons, tipping buckets, and more.

 

 

The frog slide is a popular feature at the Paul B. Johnson State Park splash pad.

 

 

 

ROOSEVELT STATE PARK

LOCATION: Morton

WATER FEATURE: Pool and Waterslide 

HOURS: May 27 to August 1: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM, 7 days a week

August 1 to September 4: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday and Sunday only

WATERSLIDE AND POOL ADMISSION: $11.00 for all ages 

POOL ADMISSION: Ages 3 and under: Free, ages 4 to 12: $4.00, ages 13 and up: $6.00

Conveniently located between Meridian and Jackson, this park is home to 150-acre Shadow Lake, which draws boating, water skiing, and jet ski enthusiasts.

Those interested in taking a trip down the slide or a dip in the pool are in luck - the pool and waterslide are available for both campers and day-use visitors. Day-use visitors will pay their $2.00 entry fee in addition to the pool admission fees. 

Make a day of it by enjoying lunch at one of the nearby pavilions and picnic tables.

Roosevelt State Park is now hiring summer lifeguards. Applications can be picked up in person at the park. 

 

 

 

TISHOMINGO STATE PARK

LOCATION: Tishomingo

WATER FEATURE: Bear Creek Float Trip

HOURS: Friday and Saturday, meet at the park office by 9:00 AM

The float trip is weather and water dependent. The goal is to open for the season early May and not close until mid-October. However, due to weather and water levels, the park might open the float trip later in the year and close earlier.

ADMISSION: $40 (plus tax) per canoe, no more than 2 people to a canoe. Maximum of 8 canoes per trip. Ages 5 and under are not permissible. Reservations are encouraged.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure down the picturesque Bear Creek as you paddle through beautiful wooded scenes and under the iconic Swinging Bridge. With the trip length reaching just over 6 miles, this trip is perfect for families, couples, and friends alike and promises to create memories that will last a lifetime. Taking only around four hours to complete, this float trip is perfect for summer and fall.

To reserve your spot, call Tishomingo State Park at (662) 438-6914.