Did you know there are 25 state parks in Mississippi? You could visit two state parks every month and still have one left over at the end of the year. Make it your mission this new year to see as many state parks as possible, you might just find your new favorite natural area! Here are 12 state parks in Mississippi to get you started.
1. January: Shepard State Park
Since winter in Mississippi is fairly mild, January is actually a great month to do a little camping. Not only are the bugs at bay, but you can truly enjoy a campfire. Shepard State Park is a bit of a hidden gem, and if you visit in January, you may find that you have the 395-acre park all to yourself!
2. February: Tishomingo State Park
Tishomingo State Park is one of Mississippi's most popular state parks, and by visiting in February, you stand a good chance at escaping the crowds. Located in the shadows of the Appalachians, the rock formations here are one of the biggest attractions to this scenic state park. Also, the waterfalls! Time your visit after a rainfall and enjoy.
3. March: George P. Cossar State Park
Nestled on the shores of Enid Lake, George P. Cossar State Park is a popular fishing and hunting spot. More than just a sportsman's paradise, the whole family will enjoy the park's ample amenities like disc golf, nature trails, mini golf, and more.
4. April: J P Coleman State Park
Cooper Falls is the main event at J P Coleman State Park, and April is a great month to check it out. Rent a canoe and paddle around Pickwick Lake to enjoy the park from an entirely new perspective.
5. May: LeFleur’s Bluff State Park
LeFleur’s Bluff State Park is one of the most unique parks in Mississippi. After all, it's not often you're greeted by a massive dinosaur at a state park! The park is also the home to two museums, a very unique rail trail, a 50-acre lake, and so much more.
6. June: Buccaneer State Park
By June, the kids are out of school and you're itching to make your first beach appearance. Head on down to Waveland where you'll find Buccaneer State Park. Not only will you be able to sink your toes in the sand, but you can also enjoy the waterpark, complete with wave pools, waterslides, and more.
7. July: Percy E Quin State Park
One of the oldest state parks in Mississippi, Percy E Quin State Park comes alive in the summer. These enchanting emerald boardwalk trails are on a different level!
8. August: John W. Kyle State Park
Located just an hour away from Memphis, John W. Kyle State Park is a picturesque little slice of paradise right on the Sardis Reservoir. And since it's so close (within 30 miles) to Ole Miss, it's a great spot to spend a weekend camping during football season.
9. September: Paul B Johnson State Park
10. October: Hugh White State Park
Nestled on the shores of Grenada Lake, Hugh White State Park is a perfect park to welcome in autumn. Fall foliage can be pretty hit or miss during October here in Mississippi, but don't worry, our next park is perfect for autumn adventures.
11. November: Wall Doxey State Park
If leaf peeping is what you're after, Wall Doxey State Park in November is a good bet! The 750-acre park is just overflowing with beautiful views, and the 2.5 nature trail will give you a front row to the show.
12. December: Tombigbee Lake State Park
Tombigbee Lake State Park is an underrated state park, especially during the winter. The lake is a bit of a hidden gem swimming hole during the warmer months, but there's plenty of adventure to be had in the winter, too! Bring your bike and tackle the 11-mile bike trail, or bring your tackle box and catch yourself some dinner.
Did your favorite state park make the list? Let us know in the comments!
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