Tishomingo State Park

Tishomingo State Park permeates with natural beauty and history. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this park is a scenic two mile drive away from the town of Tishomingo, Mississippi. It offers plenty for outdoor adventurers and the archeologically inclined visitor.

Background

The park derives its name from Chief Tishomingo, the leader of the Chickasaw Nation. Archeological excavations have confirmed that this site was inhabited by paleo-indians as early as 7000 B.C., one of the oldest known sites in the United States. The internationally known Natchez Trace Parkway, a highway created in the early 1800s, runs through this park and provides spectacular views of massive rock outcroppings, moss covered hills and large wildflower blooms.

Activities

Thirteen miles of hiking trails criss-cross the park and provide access to the churning waters of Bear Creek. Visitors can take a strenuous hike to the top of Woodall Mountain, the tallest point in Mississippi. A popular activity in the park is the sport of disc golfing, and visitors are encouraged to try their skills at one of three public courses that weave through woodlands and meadows. For more excitement, visitors can join the six mile float trip down Bear Creek. A small fee is charged and the floats operate from mid-April to October, weather permitting. This trip carries passengers through exciting rapids and long stretches of tranquil pools that provide exceptional swimming. For the history buff, the park staff provides guided tours of the site's archaeological ruins throughout the summer months.

Tishomingo State Park supports unique ecosystems that are hard to find throughout the rest of Mississippi. Visitors are sure to fall in love with the enchanting scenery and find plenty of activities to fill their day or weekend.