Mississippi is home to some incredible natural wonders – and this road trip in Mississippi will lead you to seven of the best of them! From beautiful state parks to an ancient forest and more, the route is full of wonderful sites. So pack up the car and get ready to experience some of Mother Nature’s best creations on this road trip to the 7 natural wonders of Mississippi!
As you can see from the map above, the entire route spans 591 miles and will take just over 11 hours to complete. Of course, you can always modify the route to suit your needs. To do so, simply visit this Google Maps link.
So, what are the 7 natural wonders of Mississippi? Let's hit the road and find out!
1. Tishomingo State Park
In terms of natural beauty, not much has changed at this state park since the days when Indians inhabited the land. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Tishomingo offers a breathtaking landscape made up of massive rock formations and fern-filled crevices that can’t be found anywhere else. A great first stop on this natural wonders road trip!
2. Cypress Preserve Trust
Referred to as "a natural treasure in the Mississippi Delta," this preserve was established in 1940 by the Greenville Garden Club. Encompassing 16 acres, the area’s varying terrain includes sloughs, an area of mixed woodland, and a meadow. The preserve has seen many changes since its inception, including the addition of benches and an observation deck. This is one of our favorite road trips in MS.
3. Sky Lake
This Belzoni wildlife management area is home to several ancient bald cypress trees – one of which measures 47’ in circumference and 70’ in height, making it one of the biggest in the state. Take in all Sky Lake has to offer via a 1700’ boardwalk or a 2.6-mile paddling trail, both of which navigate the ancient forest. Sky Lake is one of the best natural wonders in Mississippi.
4. Mississippi Petrified Forest
Located in Flora, Mississippi’s Petrified Forest is home to 36 million-year-old trees! But the age of the trees isn’t the only thing that makes the forest interesting. Unlike most forests, the trees in this forest are made of stone. Dubbed a "natural phenomenon," the Petrified Forest is a must-visit for all ages. This is such a cool MS natural wonder!
5. Mississippi River at Bluff Park
While Bluff Park itself isn’t a natural wonder, the Mississippi River is. And it’s at this park that you’ll be able to take in breathtaking views of one of the nation’s most famous rivers. The park includes a gazebo and picnic area that overlooks the Mighty Mississippi. If you are up for a bit of a stroll, check out the park’s nature trail and walking bridge, which provides close-up views of the Mississippi River and leads straight to the historic district, Natchez Under-the-Hill.
6. Clark Creek Nature Area
Experience Mississippi like never before with a visit to this 700-acre nature area. Primitive and improved trails make it easy to explore the incredible outdoor treasure, which features steeply sloping hills, forests, and dozens of waterfalls. With so much to see, you could easily spend an entire day at Clark Creek alone. And while the park doesn’t offer camping, the Tunica Hills Campground is nearby. It’s such a fun thing to do in Mississippi!
7. Red Bluff
A natural wonders road trip wouldn’t be complete without a stop by Red Bluff, which is also known as the "Little Grand Canyon." You can walk right up to the edge of the ½-mile-wide-canyon, where you’ll be met with unparalleled views made up of miles of tree tops and the Pearl River. Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, hike down to the bottom of the canyon, which is about 150’ deep. The perfect ending to our Mississippi road trip!
So, have you visited all of these natural wonders of Mississippi on a road trip yet? Did we forget your favorite? Tell us in the comments section. And check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you'll need on the road!
Looking for another beautiful, natural wonder? Read all about the Chickasawhay River.
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