Get ready to experience the best fall in Mississippi with the most beautiful, colorful foliage. Nothing beats the fall colors in Mississippi, which is why we decided to look around and find the best places in the state for viewing this annual wonder. Ready to see Mississippi like never before? From state parks to national forests, this one-of-a-kind road trip to the best fall foliage in Mississippi will definitely do the trick.

Spanning 860 miles with nearly 14 hours of driving time, you’ll need to break the trip up into at least two days.
Google Maps
Staying overnight at one of the state parks is a great option. No matter what you do, you're certain to see the most spectacular colors in Mississippi in the fall.
1. Homochitto National Forest
Homochitto National Forest, Mississippi 39661, USA
Brandon Ballard/AllTrails
During the fall season, the 189,000-acre Homochitto National Forest comes to life with vibrant colors. The forest is teeming with nature trails and recreation areas, which makes it a great spot for exploring. Lake Okhissa (pictured) provides gorgeous views year-round, especially in the fall. Also nestled in the forest is the Clear Springs Recreation Area. A great stop, the area includes a man-made lake, campground, picnic area, swim area, and two hiking trails.
2. Reservoir Overlook
Natchez Trace Parkway, Natchez Trace Pkwy, Madison, MS, USA
Paige Sutcliff/Google Local
When it comes to beautiful fall colors in Mississippi, no place can compare to the Natchez Trace Parkway. Since driving the entire parkway would be a road trip all its own, we decided to include only a portion of the famous path. Located at milepost 105.6, the Reservoir Overlook has been named one of the "Top 30 Favorite Sites" on the Natchez Trace. Spend time here taking in the popular Ross Barnett Reservoir and colorful foliage via a Multi-Use Trail.
3. Holmes County State Park
Holmes County State Park, 5369 State Park Rd, Durant, MS 39063, USA
Mike Minson/Google Local
Built around two lakes and surrounded by gorgeous hardwood forests, stunning views are a given at this lesser-known Mississippi state park, and those views only get better during the fall season. Be sure to have your camera ready – the area is known for providing great photo ops.

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4. Tishomingo State Park
Tishomingo State Park, 105 Co Rd 90, Tishomingo, MS 38873, USA
Management/TripAdvisor
A park known for its beauty, Tishomingo only gets better this time of year. Full of massive rock formations, rare fern-filled crevices, and several waterfalls, the park is definitely one of Mississippi’s most impressive natural wonders. You’ll definitely want to devote some time during this fall foliage road trip in Mississippi to exploring this park, which has been nationally recognized for its hiking trails, canoeing, scenery, and cabins – making this a great place to stay overnight.
5. Sardis Lake
Sardis Lake, Mississippi, USA
Angelika Lindner/Wikimedia Commons
You may think lakes are best reserved for summer, but that’s definitely not the case with Sardis Lake. This lake is located within a 98,000-acre recreation area and is perfect for everything from picnicking to hunting. Exploring the area and the breathtaking fall foliage is a breeze since there are several nature trails throughout the recreation area.
6. Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge Admin Building And Visitor Contact Station, 13723 Bluff Lake Rd, Starkville, MS 39759, USA
Frank/Flickr
Located just south of Starkville, this refuge was created in 1940. Hardwood and pine forests, lakes, ponds, and an array of wildlife fill the 42,500-acre outdoor recreation area. The fall season is the perfect time to visit the area — not only because of the cooler weather but also because of the vibrant foliage that pops up all over the place. Absolutely breathtaking, this WMA is truly a sight to be seen. Fall colors in Mississippi don't get much better than this.
7. Greenway Preserve Nature Area
Main Street & Depot Street, Main St & Depot St, Lucedale, MS 39452, USA
Andra Furby Levins/Only In Mississippi
This nature trail is part of Lucedale’s city trail system and follows Depot Creek. Suitable for people of all ages and skill levels, the trail is the perfect way to explore the wooded area surrounding the creek all while taking in the vividly-colored fall foliage.

Fall is definitely one of the most beautiful times of the year in Mississippi! Are you excited to take this road trip to the best fall foliage in Mississippi? Be sure to check our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List so you’re prepared with everything you need to make the best of your trip. What are your favorite things to do in the fall in Mississippi?

Want to take in more of the state’s beauty? Check out the most beautiful fall destinations in Mississippi. And don’t miss some of the best spots all across the country for bold fall colors:

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More to Explore

Mississippi In The Fall

Elisa Regulski | August 15, 2019

What is the best time to see peak fall foliage in Mississippi?

Mississippi sees peak fall foliage from mid-October to the first part of November. Even though that is a small window, the colors are absolutely stunning. It’s definitely worth it to plan your autumn adventures in advance. That way, you can soak up all the wonderful beauty this state has to offer. 

Where are the best places in Mississippi to see fall foliage?

Some of the best places in Mississippi to see fall foliage include:

  • Homochitto National Forest, located in Meadville, is an incredible place to experience Mississippi’s fall foliage. This 189,000-acre natural area absolutely glistens in the autumn. It’s also home to the shimmering Lake Okhissa. When the nearby trees’ leaves change color, they reflect into the water and provide breathtaking scenery.
  • Holmes County State Park, located in Durant, is another popular autumn destination. Here, you’ll see two lovely lakes and a plethora of colorful trees. Bring your whole family along and enjoy the natural beauty. These places are not to be missed. 

 

What are the best Mississippi hikes to take in the fall?

The best Mississippi hikes to take in the fall are:

  • The Beaver Dam Trail, located in The Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge in Brooksville, is a breezy hike that’s packed with scenic views. This easy stroll is only one mile long, so it’s the perfect outing for young ones.
  • Pat Lamar Park in Oxford is another wonderful place for fall hiking. This park has an easy-to-follow paved path, so you never have to worry about strenuous climbs or elevations. You’ll also come across a tranquil lake and fishing area. This place is picture perfect for a fall picnic.

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