Trace State Park
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Trace State Park Mississippi

4.5
·344 reviews·, United States

Lakefront retreat with camping, hiking, disc golf, and water sports. Near Tupelo's Elvis birthplace.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for outdoor fun

CrowdLow
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Trace State Park

Trace State Park Mississippi

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for outdoor fun

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Lakefront retreat with camping, hiking, disc golf, and water sports. Near Tupelo's Elvis birthplace.

4.5
(344 reviews)

"Beautiful park with great amenities, but be prepared for rough roads!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Mind the Potholes!

Roads inside the park are notoriously rough. Drive slowly and carefully, especially with RVs.

🎣 Private Fishing Piers

Many cabins and sites offer private piers, making fishing incredibly convenient and enjoyable.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Trace State Park Lake

Trace State Park Lake

Throughout the park

A beautiful lake offering fishing, water skiing, and scenic views. Perfect for a relaxing day by the water.

Reddit
Campsite with Lake View

Campsite with Lake View

Campgrounds

Enjoy level, shaded sites with full hook-ups and stunning lake vistas for a comfortable stay.

Instagram
Elvis Presley Birthplace

Elvis Presley Birthplace

Tupelo, MS (nearby)

Visit the humble 400 sq ft home where the King of Rock and Roll was born. A must-see for music fans.

TikTok
Natchez Trace Parkway Drive

Natchez Trace Parkway Drive

Nearby

Experience a scenic drive with historical markers and beautiful landscapes. Perfect for a leisurely road trip.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors, Mind the Roads

Trace State Park offers a beautiful lake and numerous outdoor activities. Be prepared for rough roads within the park; slow driving is essential, especially with RVs or campers. Consider this before planning your arrival. Reddit

Book Ahead for Prime Spots

While some visitors find last-minute availability, popular sites, especially those with lake views and full hook-ups, can be booked quickly. Planning ahead ensures you get the best experience. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for outdoor fun
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for lake activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tupelo, Ms
@mortgagedealsnheels
74.3K likes • 2.8M views

🚗 Mind the Potholes!

Roads inside the park are notoriously rough. Drive slowly and carefully, especially with RVs. Reddit+1

🎣 Private Fishing Piers

Many cabins and sites offer private piers, making fishing incredibly convenient and enjoyable. Reddit

Stand off in Tupelo, MS today #policestandoff #tupeloms #tupelomississippi #Mississippi #backtheblue🖤💙🇺🇸💪🏼
@penny.renee
25.4K likes • 270.6K views
What a find! Booked this site TODAY at Trace State Park Campground. Level, asphalt, shade, full hook-ups, and a lake view for $17.12.👍 Wow! #planningisoverrated #tracestatepark #mississippi #campground #threeforadventure #traveltheusa #travelwithteens #travelcheap #rvlife #msstateparks #homeiswhereyouparkit @msstateparks
threeforadventure
45 likes • 800 views

💰 Budget-Friendly Stays

Campsites can be very affordable, especially with full hook-ups and lake views. Instagram

📍 Tupelo Attractions Nearby

Explore Elvis's birthplace and other local Tupelo sights for a well-rounded trip. TikTok+1

The Natchez Trace in Mississippi is one of the most beautiful drives in the country. Here’s a short timelapse of tonight’s sunset drive. #timelapsevideo #mississippi #natcheztrace #scenicdrive #jimmybuffett
papa_mississippi
379 likes • 6.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Mind the Potholes!

Roads inside the park are notoriously rough. Drive slowly and carefully, especially with RVs. Reddit+1

🎣 Private Fishing Piers

Many cabins and sites offer private piers, making fishing incredibly convenient and enjoyable. Reddit

💰 Budget-Friendly Stays

Campsites can be very affordable, especially with full hook-ups and lake views. Instagram

📍 Tupelo Attractions Nearby

Explore Elvis's birthplace and other local Tupelo sights for a well-rounded trip. TikTok+1

🧺 Laundry Woes

Some park laundry machines may be outdated or faulty; consider doing laundry in town. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(344 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Trace State Park offers a beautiful lake setting with convenient amenities like private fishing piers and full hook-up RV sites. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the peaceful atmosphere. However, the park's internal roads are consistently criticized for being in very poor condition with numerous potholes, and some areas show signs of disrepair or long-term residents in less-than-ideal conditions.

"We had a Wonderful experience there! We had Fully stocked bathroom, bedrooms and kitchen with Everything we needed. (brought our food of course).I was amazed that we had our own little peir to fish off of! Checking in and out was Super easy. All of the staff were Very Friendly and Polite. Our cabin was just like a home with a beautiful view of the lake. The boat landings are Super close! The ducks were fun creatures to watch. Nobody bothered us at All! It was so easy to check In and out! Didn't even have to get out of our vehicle. The place is clean, safe, and Well kept!"

Patricia Jeffreys

"The setting is beautiful and the staff was friendly and accommodating. The roads have a lot of potholes, trash cans are few and far between and fire pits unmaintained. Some sections have people living there full time in ramshackle RVs. But the place is beautiful."

Papa George Maxson

"We stayed three-nights in a full-service RV site on the lake. We really enjoyed this park - it’s well maintained (except the roads - they’re really rutted and difficult to drive) and the facilities and park itself are great. We lost a couple of dollars in the washing machine, so gave it up and went to town to do laundry, so can’t recommend you do laundry at the park unless they’ve modernized the machines. Beautiful park - lots of land and amenities - lots of families with kids. Can highly recommend."

C E

What People Like

Beautiful lake views
Friendly staff
Private fishing piers

What People Dislike

Terrible road conditions
Outdated facilities
Unmaintained areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Trace State Park is located in northeastern Mississippi, near Tupelo. The primary access road within the park can have significant potholes, so drive with caution. Reddit+1 Many visitors arrive by car or RV, utilizing GPS for navigation to the park entrance. The nearby Natchez Trace Parkway also offers scenic routes to the general area. Instagram

Public transportation options directly to Trace State Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle or RV. Visitors often use Tupelo as a base and drive to the park. TikTok+1

Navigating within Trace State Park requires patience due to the condition of the internal roads. Slow speeds are recommended, especially for larger vehicles like RVs and campers, to avoid damage from potholes. Reddit+1

The closest major airport is Tupelo Regional Airport (TUP), which offers limited commercial flights. For more options, travelers might consider flying into Memphis International Airport (MEM) in Tennessee, which is about a 2-hour drive away. TikTok+1

Yes, GPS is generally reliable for finding the park's main entrance. However, be aware that internal park roads may not be accurately represented or may be in poor condition. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Trace State Park typically operates on a day-use or camping fee basis. While specific ticket purchases for entry might not be required, there are fees for camping and potentially for certain amenities or activities. It's advisable to check the official Mississippi State Parks website for the most current fee structure. Instagram

Trace State Park is generally open year-round, but specific hours for facilities like visitor centers or campgrounds may vary seasonally. Day-use access is typically from dawn to dusk. It's recommended to confirm current hours before your visit. Reddit

Camping fees at Trace State Park can vary depending on the type of site (e.g., RV with full hook-ups, primitive). One visitor reported paying $17.12 for a level, asphalt site with full hook-ups and a lake view. Instagram Long-term stays can be more expensive, with one report of $676 for a month-long stay in April. Reddit

Yes, booking campsites in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular sites with lake views and full hook-ups. Some visitors have been able to book sites on the same day, but planning ahead ensures availability. Instagram

Information on specific discounts is not widely available. However, the park offers a range of site types, and some, like the lakefront RV sites, are noted for their affordability. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Trace State Park offers a variety of activities including fishing from private piers, boating, water skiing on the lake, hiking, and disc golf. The park is also a great place for wildlife viewing, with deer and other critters often spotted. Reddit+1

While specific trail details are not extensively documented, the park's natural setting and proximity to the Natchez Trace Parkway suggest opportunities for walking and exploring the natural environment. Instagram

Yes, fishing is a popular activity at Trace State Park. Many campsites and cabins come with private piers, making it very convenient to cast a line into the lake. Reddit

Camping facilities include RV sites with full hook-ups, and some areas are designated for long-term stays. Sites can be level and shaded, with concrete patios, picnic tables, and fire pits. Restrooms with showers are available, noted as being large and well-equipped. Reddit

Absolutely! Trace State Park is RV and skoolie friendly, with sites offering water and electric hook-ups. However, be prepared for rough roads within the park that require slow driving. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants mentioned within Trace State Park itself. Visitors typically bring their own food and utilize the cabin or campsite cooking facilities. Reddit

The nearest significant dining options are in Tupelo, Mississippi. Tupelo offers a range of choices, from traditional Southern cuisine to international foods. TikTokReddit

Yes, campsites and cabins are equipped for cooking. Many sites have fire pits and grills, and cabins are described as being fully stocked with kitchens. Reddit+1

Grocery stores are available in the nearby city of Tupelo, which is a convenient place to stock up on supplies before heading into the park. TikTok

In Tupelo, visitors enjoy places like O'Lucky B's for nachos, described as a 'wonder of the nacho world.' For a broader experience, traditional Southern and authentic international cuisines are available. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake offers beautiful sunrise and sunset views, perfect for photography. Wildlife sightings, like deer and ducks, also provide great photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

The park's natural beauty, especially the lake and surrounding woodlands, provides a serene backdrop for landscape photography. The nearby Natchez Trace Parkway also offers picturesque scenes. Instagram+1

Yes, wildlife is present in the park, including deer and various bird species. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times for spotting and photographing animals. Reddit

While not explicitly marked, the lakefront areas and scenic overlooks along the park roads offer excellent vantage points for capturing the park's beauty. Instagram+1

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for landscape and wildlife photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Trace State Park is a great destination for families looking for outdoor fun. The lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, and water skiing, keeping kids entertained for hours. Reddit Many campsites offer private piers, making fishing accessible and exciting for younger ones. The park's natural setting also provides opportunities for wildlife spotting, which can be a delightful experience for children. Reddit

While the park offers a lot of natural beauty, parents should be aware of the rough roads within the park and supervise children closely, especially near the water. Bringing plenty of snacks and drinks is recommended, as dining options within the park are limited. Exploring the nearby Elvis Presley Birthplace in Tupelo can also be an engaging activity for families interested in music history. TikTok

🏕️ RV Campers & Long-Term Stays

RV campers will find Trace State Park accommodating, with many sites offering full hook-ups, level pads, and lake views. InstagramReddit The park is skoolie friendly and caters to long-term stays, with some visitors enjoying month-long visits. Reddit However, the primary challenge for RVers is navigating the park's notoriously rough roads, which require slow speeds and careful maneuvering. Reddit+1 Despite this, the availability of amenities like water and electric hook-ups, along with the scenic lake setting, makes it a popular choice for those traveling in larger vehicles. Reddit

🎣 Anglers & Water Sports Enthusiasts

For fishing enthusiasts, Trace State Park is a prime location. The lake is stocked, and many campsites and cabins feature private fishing piers, offering direct access to the water. Reddit Beyond fishing, the lake is also ideal for water skiing and boating, providing ample opportunities for aquatic recreation. Reddit Visitors can enjoy the serene environment while engaging in their favorite water activities. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before casting your line. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Roads of Trace State Park

Visitors consistently highlight the challenging road conditions within Trace State Park. Many reviews mention significant potholes and rough terrain, making slow and cautious driving essential, particularly for those with RVs, campers, or trailers. Reddit+1 This is a crucial factor to consider when planning your arrival and departure, as it can significantly impact travel time and the overall driving experience. Some long-term campers have noted that while the sites themselves are often well-maintained, the access roads remain a persistent issue. Reddit

Despite the road challenges, the park's natural beauty and amenities often outweigh this drawback for many visitors. The lake provides a central focus for recreation, and the campsites themselves are frequently praised for being level, shaded, and equipped with necessary hook-ups. InstagramReddit The advice from seasoned visitors is to approach the park with a sense of adventure and preparedness, understanding that the journey within the park requires a different pace than typical travel.

For those planning a visit, it's wise to check recent reviews or park advisories for any updates on road maintenance. However, based on current feedback, expecting and preparing for rough roads is the most practical approach to ensure a smoother experience at Trace State Park. Reddit+2

Camping and Accommodation Options

Trace State Park offers a variety of camping options to suit different needs. Visitors can find level, asphalt campsites with full hook-ups, often boasting lake views, which are highly recommended for RV travelers. InstagramReddit These sites are praised for their convenience and scenic beauty, providing a comfortable base for exploring the park. Some sites are also designated for long-term stays, attracting visitors who wish to immerse themselves in the park's environment for extended periods. Reddit

Beyond RV sites, the park also offers cabins that are described as being fully stocked with everything needed for a comfortable stay, including kitchens and private fishing piers. Reddit This makes it an attractive option for families or those seeking a more home-like experience. The equestrian area is also noted as being quiet and private, with access to water and electric hook-ups, and even a nice dock for fishing. Reddit

While the park provides these amenities, it's worth noting that some facilities, like laundry machines, may be outdated. Reddit Additionally, the condition of restrooms can vary, though some are highlighted as being very large and well-equipped. Reddit Overall, Trace State Park provides a range of accommodation choices, with the lakefront sites and cabins being particularly popular for their amenities and views.

Exploring Tupelo and Nearby Attractions

While Trace State Park offers a serene escape, the nearby city of Tupelo, Mississippi, provides a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. The most significant is the Elvis Presley Birthplace, a humble 400 sq ft home where the King of Rock and Roll was born on January 8, 1935. TikTok Visiting this site offers a poignant glimpse into Elvis's early life and is a pilgrimage for fans worldwide. Tupelo also boasts other points of interest, making it a worthwhile destination to explore before or after your park visit. TikTok

For those interested in scenic drives, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a historic route that runs through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. A section of this parkway is accessible near Trace State Park and offers a beautiful, leisurely drive with numerous historical markers and natural vistas. Instagram+1 This route is perfect for a relaxed afternoon of sightseeing, allowing visitors to connect with the region's history and natural landscapes. Instagram

Food enthusiasts will find Tupelo offers diverse culinary experiences. From traditional Southern comfort food to authentic international dishes, the city caters to various tastes. Reddit A notable mention is O'Lucky B's, celebrated for its extensive and flavorful nacho creations. TikTok Exploring Tupelo adds another dimension to a trip to Trace State Park, combining outdoor recreation with cultural and historical discovery.

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