The Small-Town State Park in Mississippi Locals Want to Keep to Themselves

From the coast to the foothills of the Appalachians, Mississippi is spoiled with some of the most beautiful state parks. Sure, popular parks like Bucanneer and Tishomingo are deserving of their accolades, but sometimes you just need a small-town park to escape the crowds and embrace the solitude. Trace State Park is a quiet state park in Mississippi that’s the perfect destination for anyone who wants to enjoy our beautiful landscape, hit the hiking trails, and even have some fun on the water. If you’re an avid disc golfer, even better. 

Why Trace State Park Stands Out in Mississippi

This lesser-known park in Mississippi is located just outside of Tupelo and offers a wide range of outdoor attractions without the crowds. Formerly known as Old Natchez Trace Park, this small-town state park was named after the nearby Natchez Trace Parkway, the historic 444-mile trail that runs from Natchez to Nashville. Not to be confused with Tennessee’s Natchez Trace State Park, this underrated state park in Mississippi has a unique history that goes all the way back to the early 1800s, when Davy Crockett lived here as a horse trader with the Chickasaw Tribe. He was living here when he learned about Sam Houston’s troubles in Texas and traveled there to help his friend, and was later killed in the Battle of the Alamo. 

Perhaps the main reason this park stands out is its two disc golf courses. The Old Warrior Run is an 18-hole course and was the first long arm course in North Mississippi. The 18-hole Trace Gold course is a professional course and is rated among the best disc golf courses in Mississippi. 

What You’ll Experience at Trace State Park

Trace State Park is the ultimate destination for a quiet outdoor escape. Much of the park is centered around the beautiful Trace Lake, a 565-acre freshwater lake that’s perfect for fishing and water sports. Two boat ramps are available for guests to use for a small fee, and the park also has kayak rentals. If fishing is your game, you’ll be delighted to know that Trace Lake is well-stocked with bass, catfish, bluegill, and crappie. Anglers over the age of 16 will need a Mississippi fishing license, which can be purchased online or during office hours at the park office. 

If water sports are more up your alley, Trace Lake is a popular spot for water skiing. Water skiing is allowed year-round, and there are separate sections for fishing and water sports on the lake. 

There are plenty of land-based activities at this underrated state park in Mississippi to keep you entertained all day long. Take your pick from the 35 miles of multi-use trails perfect for equestrians, ATVs, and mountain bikers. For traditional hikers, Trace State Park offers 17 miles of trails that will take you through the park’s upland pine, hardwoods, and wetland forests. Of course, those beautiful lake views are never too far away. 

While you’re exploring the hiking trails, keep an eye out for the local wildlife. Deer are a common sighting here, and you’ll likely see them frolicking through the forest, but you’ll also want to keep your eyes peeled for a pair of bald eagles. This bonded pair has a nest in one of the trees along the banks of the lake, and they’ve been here for 13 years! If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see one of them swoop down and snag a fish from the lake. 

Local Tips for Visiting This Small Town State Park

Even if you only have a day to spend at the park, it’s time well spent, but I’d encourage you to spend a few days here to really get to experience everything. There are several options for spending the night at Trace State Park, including 76 full-hookup RV campsites, 16 tent sites, five cabins, and three cottages. Two of the vacation cabins and one of the cottages are ADA-accessible.

Spending a few days here not only gives you the freedom to explore the park at your own pace, but you can also take advantage of the extra time and check out the surrounding area. There are plenty of things to do in Tupelo to keep you entertained. Plus, the Natchez Trace is just overflowing with history, architecture, and some of the best hiking trails in Mississippi.

What to Know Before You Go

The entrance fee for Trace State Park is $2 a person, but kids five and younger are free. The park often hosts special events that are always a good time. Visit the Trace State Park website to learn more.

Trace State Park feels like one of those hidden gems in Mississippi that only locals know about. Next time you’re looking for a quiet outdoor escape, our small town parks will be waiting for you. Once you visit Trace State Park, you’ll want to visit them all! Check out our article where we highlight 10 of the most under-appreciated state parks in Mississippi for more inspiration.