Discover the Best Hiking Trails at Tishomingo State Park
The Tishomingo State Park trails offer an exciting experience for visitors. Whether you’re up for hiking the scenic nature trails, picnicking by the freshwater lake, or fishing for dinner, Tishomingo State Park is a haven for adventure-seekers.
Tishomingo State Park, in northeast Mississippi, is surrounded by the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to moderate, so there’s something for every skill level. Along the routes, you’ll pass by beautiful rock formations, babbling streams, and towering trees that make you feel like you are in a private slice of paradise.
The hiking trails are marked for navigation, and those markers keep you safe while exploring the park. If you’re in the area and looking for a hike to refresh your mind and give your body a workout, Tishomingo State Park is the place to be.
To start your hiking adventure in Tishomingo State Park, check in at the park’s office near the park entrance. The desk agent provides a printed handout with valuable information about each of the seven trails.
Tishomingo State Park Flat Rock Hiking Trail
If you’re looking for a picturesque hiking trail, look no further than the Flat Rock Trail! Starting near the park entrance, across from the cabin-style park office, this 3-mile trek takes you through stunning wooded areas, complete with spring-fed streams and towering rock outcroppings ending at the dam.
Keep an eye out for the blue diamond markers that guide your path. As you wander, you’ll be immersed in a diverse forest full of sweet gum, hickory, white and red oak, and fragrant dogwoods.
Saddleback Ridge Trail
The Saddleback Ridge Trail is a delightful ¾-mile hike that is easy and enjoyable. Look out for bright blue triangle markers along the way to guide you on your adventure.
Whether you prefer a relaxed walk among fields of wildflowers or a more challenging climb up rocky hills, this trail is a good one to enjoy. Along the way, you’ll get to explore various rock formations and spot numerous small caves. Interestingly, this path was used by the Chickasaw Indians when traveling to the Freedom Hills. In Alabama, the Natchez Trace Parkway includes a scenic marker designating the Freedom Hills Overlook.
This Tishomingo State Park hiking trail winds its way along Saddleback Ridge, past a picnic pavilion, and finally leads you to the stunning Haynes Lake Dam. It’s worth noting that the trail overlaps with the Tushka Run Disc Golf Course, so be mindful of flying frisbees as you walk. Bring your walking boots and camera to fully enjoy the Saddleback Ridge Trail.
Natchez Trace Hiking Trail
The Natchez Trace in Mississippi holds a rich history as an ancient trail traversed by animals, Native Americans, immigrant pioneer settlers, and traders. This vital trade route connected to the Mississippi River near Natchez, serving as a safer alternative to river travel.
During the War of 1812, it played a significant role in supplying troops. In the 20th century, efforts were made to preserve its historical value, leading to the establishment of the Natchez Trace Parkway in 1938. Today, the parkway stretches over 440 miles, offering a scenic journey through time with markers, interpretive sites, and natural wonders. Visitors can learn about ancient mounds, restored settlements, and notable landmarks.
Stepping onto the Natchez Trace Trail in Tishomingo State Park will leave you breathless with awe. It has a winding path that passes under the Natchez Trace Parkway bridge and ends at the pioneer cabin area.
A white diamond marks the 2-mile pathway that has been used for centuries, retaining its rich historical significance. Towering ancient rock formations and lush trees surround this trail, giving you a glimpse into a bygone era.
Hiking the Tishomingo State Park CCC Pond Trail
The CCC Pond Trail is a tranquil .75-mile hike perfect for beginners or families with young children. Take in picturesque views of the pond and surrounding forests while admiring the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps. The orange triangle trail markers will guide you safely through this path.
Wander through woods and wildflowers and cross a wooden bridge over the peaceful pond. While on the sturdy bridge, you’ll see the lake and the stone dam built in the 1930s.
Get lost in the serenity and history of this peaceful landscape on a leisurely stroll through nature.
CCC Camp Trail at Tishomingo State Park
Experience a remarkable hike through the CCC Camp Trail, where nature and history intertwine to create an unforgettable journey. This trail spans three miles and boasts a diverse terrain that keeps hikers engaged throughout the adventure. The trail was crafted in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and traces of their remarkable workmanship can still be seen today.
As you traverse the trail, you’ll be greeted by an array of natural wonders, including babbling creeks, plush forests, and breathtaking rocky bluffs. The well-marked path, with orange diamond markers, will guide you from the pioneer cabin area to the majestic Swinging Bridge.
The trail cuts through the CCC worker’s camp, where you’ll discover structural foundations from the original 1930s camp buildings. The main trail intersects with a gravel road, marking the camp’s location. The trail then branches into the upper and lower trails, each offering a unique experience.
The upper trail ascends and leads to Pavilion #1, which has picnic tables and connects to a parking lot and paved vehicle roadways.
The lower trail winds towards the banks of Bear Creek and passes beneath rock outcroppings. You’ll encounter approximately 100 stone steps to reach the lowest level. As the trail turns to the left, you’ll enter the Horseshoe Bend of the creek. Finally, the trail culminates at the Swinging Bridge, where hikers take in the stunning natural landscape.
Overall, the CCC Camp Trail provides a one-of-a-kind experience, immersing hikers in both the natural beauty of the area and the rich history of the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Bear Creek Trail
Bear Creek Trail at Tishomingo State Park is a 1.5-mile trail that starts at the picnic area near the swimming pool at the lodge and concludes at the Pioneer Cabin.
The trail’s lush forests, winding streams, and towering rocks create a fairytale-like ambiance. The winding streams are water sources for various native wildlife, so keep your camera handy! As you walk, keep an eye out for flying objects on the disc golf courses. This trail shares its path with Chickasaw Disc Golf Course.
After winding through the forest, you’ll reach the Pioneer Cabin area, where you can choose to end your hike or continue onward with the CCC Pold Trail or the longer CCC camp Trail.
Tishomingo State Park: Outcroppings Hiking Trail
Discover the beauty of Outcroppings Trail at Tishomingo State Park – the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. With a trail length of 2 miles, marked by a yellow diamond, the loop path starts and ends at the Swinging Bridge, offering a picturesque setting for your journey.
Immerse yourself in the forest, take in panoramic views of the rocky creek below, and marvel at the towering rock formations along the way. The outcroppings are a hit with rock climbing enthusiasts and offer a stunning backdrop for your hike. Although the trail is relatively easy, it requires careful footing, especially when crossing streams after heavy rain.
Along this trail, you will have a new discovery at each turn. A short walk, with some areas fortified with wooden steps, will lead you to the first waterfall. Step across the stream and climb higher in the rocks to see one of the cave remnants. Move deeper into the forest, following the yellow route markers, and experience the higher elevations before descending along a route with jutting limestone formations. These layers of shale developed over centuries and are considered part of the foothills of the Appalachian Mountain range.
Summary
The Tishomingo State Park trails offer plenty of things for the whole family to do while visiting northeastern Mississippi and the Appalachian foothills. For nature lovers, it’s a wonderful destination unique to the state. For primitive camping, the tent spots overlooking the lake are scenic places to overnight. For RV enthusiasts, every pad is adjacent to Haynes Lake, with fabulous views. Tishomingo State Park has so much to offer, and it’s no wonder it is ranked among the best state parks in the area.
