Need a break from it all but don’t want to break the bank to get it? No problem; Mississippi is filled with amazing places that actually make an overnight trip plausible. From some of the state’s best campgrounds to cabins hidden deep in the forest, these 10 places offer accommodations that are both unique and inexpensive.
1. Riverside Hotel, Clarksdale
This small bed and breakfast may not look like much on the outside but some huge things have taken place under its roof. At one time, the building served as a hospital for African Americans and is where Blues legend Bessie Smith passed away. Over the years, the Riverside Hotel has accommodated several notable guests, including John F. Kennedy, Jr., Ike Turner, John Lee Hooker, and Robert Nighthawk. A stop on the Blues Trail, this hotel continues to attract guests from all over the world and is a must-visit for music enthusiasts.
More Information: The Riverside Hotel
2. Shack Up Inn, Clarksdale
Taking the Mississippi spot on Thrillist’s list of "The Coolest Hotels In Every State," the Shack Up Inn offers visitors the chance to stay on the Hopson Plantation, which has remained practically unchanged since it was an actual working plantation. A completely unique experience, guests stay in authentic sharecropper shacks and are able to tour the grounds, which include an original cotton gin, seed houses, and other outbuildings.
More information: Shack Up Inn
3. Tallahatchie Flats, Greenwood
A true Delta experience, the Tallahatchie Flats consist of six perfectly preserved examples of the small rural homes that once filled this region of the state. These types of homes are significant because they are exactly the kind in which a number of blues musicians resided and spent time cultivating their craft. Aside from the opportunity to stay in these historic "tenant houses," guests can truly immerse themselves in the region’s rich history via an interpretive tour of the property.
More Information: Tallahatchie Flats
4. French Camp Historic District, milepost 180.7 on the Natchez Trace Parkway
Offering visitors the chance to experience early American life for themselves, French Camp is made up of several historic buildings, a museum that is filled with primitive antiques and memorabilia, and a bed and breakfast and cottages that are perfect for an unforgettable overnight stay.
More Information: French Camp Historic District
5. Campsites along the Natchez Trace Parkway
Known for its scenic beauty, the Natchez Trace Parkway is lined with more than a dozen amazing campgrounds, including the site at Rocky Springs. The primitive campground includes picnic tables, restrooms, a section of the Old Trace, walking trails, and more. Another popular spot is the campground at Jeff Busby Park, which offers access to the second highest point in the state, Little Mountain.
More Information: Natchez Trace Parkway
6. Little Black Creek Campground, Lumberton
Surrounding a 640-acre lake, this Lumberton campground is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Looking for some adventure? The campground offers a ton of activities, such as zip-lining, horseback riding, and canoeing and kayaking. The cabins will set you back at least $100, but the primitive camping rate is much lower – only $13 a night.
More Information: Little Black Creek Campground
7. Tishomingo State Park, Tishomingo
The park’s quaint cabins are located in a wooded area on the rocky bluffs above Bear Creek and have even caught the attention of Reserve America, which included the cabins on their "Top 25 Unique Cabins" list. Want more of a primitive camping experience? Tishomingo can handle that too - it was included on Reserve America’s listing of the nation’s "Top 100 Campgrounds."
More information: Tishomingo State Park
8. The Forest Retreat, Gloster
Nestled in the Homochitto National Forest, it doesn’t get more relaxing than a stay at this hidden retreat. Guest cabins are located at the forest’s edge, promising a tranquil stay. Weekend rental rates are a bit higher, but the Forest Retreat offers a special weeknight rate of $100 - and that includes ample amounts of peace and quiet, making it worth every penny.
More Information: The Forest Retreat
9. Deer Island, near Biloxi
Approximately a quarter mile from Biloxi, this tropical treasure is the closest island to Mississippi’s coastline, and surprisingly, many residents are unaware of its existence. The 400-acre island is home to ten different types of endangered species and not much else, making it ideal for a secluded getaway. The best part? Since Deer Island is so close, anyone with a small boat, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard can access it.
10. Buccaneer State Park, Waveland
Beautifully restored following Hurricane Katrina, this state park offers both primitive and developed camping in addition to a ton of recreational opportunities, including nature trails, disc golf, beach access, and the on-site water park, Buccaneer Bay.
More Information: Buccaneer State Park
Have you ever stayed at any of the places listed above? What would you add to this list?
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