When it comes to state parks, Mississippi is definitely not lacking; there are over 20 scattered throughout the state. Of those, there’s one that stands out above the rest. One that offers visitors the chance to ride rapids, climb mountains, immerse themselves in Native American history, and experience scenery like nowhere else in the state. If you live in Mississippi, a trip to Tishomingo State Park is a must.

Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this state park is filled with trails once walked by the Paleo Indians known to have occupied the area as early as 7,000 B.C. The park’s unique landscape, which includes massive rock formations and fern-filled crevices that can’t be found anywhere else in the state, means visitors are afforded the perfect combination of scenic beauty and history.

After surveying thousands of parks nationwide, Tishomingo State Park was listed on Reserve America’s "Top 100 Family Campgrounds" and the recipient of 12 other Outdoor Recreation Awards.

For water-enthusiasts, Tishomingo State Park is a dream come true. Bear Creek, which runs through the park, is perfect for fishing and canoeing and landed the park on Reserve America’s "Top 25 Canoeing Spots" list. Haynes Lake, a 45-acre freshwater lake, is also located within the park and surely attributed to Tishomingo being listed as one of the "Top 50 Fishing Spots" in the nation.

Tishomingo is much more than a state park and recreation area, it’s a historic site that’s teeming with educational opportunities. According to Reserve America, it’s one of the "Top 25 Educational and Historic Facilities" in the entire country. From the life-size woodcarvings of Indians that fill the area to a cabin that dates back to the 1800s, history truly comes to life at Tishomingo.

With such amazing scenery and a diverse landscape, it’s no surprise that Tishomingo was included in Reserve America’s list of the "Top 50 Hiking Trails." The park offers seven different trails that vary in length. The Bear Creek Outcropping Trail is by far one of the most popular. It is rated as moderate on the difficulty scale, but the breathtaking scenery found along the trail makes it well worth the extra effort.

As if exploring the acres upon acres of Tishomingo isn’t enough to keep kids entertained, this park also features a playground, multi-use ballfield, volleyball court, and swimming pool. These amenities, and more, landed Tishomingo a spot on Reserve America’s "Top 25 Kid Friendly Parks" list.

Named one of the "Top 25 Romantic Spots," Tishomingo is the perfect place to take that someone special. The park is the epitome of rustic romance, offering some of the state’s best hiking, fishing, and even rock climbing. And thanks to the park’s cabins, lovebirds can easily turn a day trip into an overnight stay.

Tishomingo’s unique landscape, massive rock formations, rare fern-filled crevices, and several waterfalls undoubtedly attributed to the park being included in Reserve America’s "Top 50 Scenic Views" list.

Located in a wooded area on the rocky bluffs above Bear Creek, these quaint cabins caught the attention of Reserve America and were included on the "Top 25 Unique Cabins" list. For additional cabin information or lodging rates, click

" target="_blank">here.

By far one of its best qualities, Tishomingo's location was recognized by Reserve America, which included the park in their "Top 25 Amazing Locations" list. Situated in north Mississippi, Tishomingo not only offers views unlike any other in the state but is located near the renowned Natchez Trace. Inside the park, there are a ton of gorgeous locations that should definitely be checked out, including the historic swinging bridge, which is one of the only few left in the state.

The park’s location also makes it great for rock climbing. The rocky outcropping and bluffs found in Tishomingo don’t exist anywhere else in the state. For more information on rock climbing in Tishomingo, click

"_blank">here.

Tishomingo State Park was also included on the "Top 25 Birdwatching Spots," "Top 25 Picnic Areas," and "Top 25 Tours & Events" lists.

Check out this gem of a state park for yourself in the video below.

Ever been to Tishomingo State Park? We want to hear about your experience! Tell us all about it in the comments section below.