These days, it can seem quite hard to get away from it all. Modern life, with all of its demands and obligations, doesn't give you much time to rest. However, there are places you can visit that allow you to revel in and reconnect with nature. One such place in Mississippi offers the perfect break from the outside world for you and your family: Tombigbee Lake State Park.
What is Tombigbee Lake State Park?
Named for the nearby Tombigbee River, Tombigbee State Park is one of the first state parks ever to have been built and designated as such in Mississippi. Construction began in 1934, with the park being constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps., which helped provide work during the Great Depression. Tombigbee State Park finally opened to the general public in 1938, and in 1999, Tombigbee State Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Tombigbee State Park Overview
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Reservoir: The park is centered around a 90-acre lake, which is a prominent feature of the park and offers various water-based recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, and swimming.
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Camping: Tombigbee State Park provides several options for camping, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The park's campground facilities include picnic tables, grills, and bathhouses.
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Hiking Trails: There are several hiking trails within the park, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area. The trails vary in length and difficulty, making them suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
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Fishing: The lake at Tombigbee State Park is well-stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, bream, catfish, and crappie. Fishing is a popular activity, and the park has a fishing pier for anglers to use.
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Wildlife: Tombigbee State Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Birdwatching is a popular activity in the park.
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Events and Programs: Tombigbee State Park often hosts special events, programs, and nature-related activities for visitors throughout the year. Check the park's official website or contact the park office for information on upcoming events.
Where is Tombigbee Lake State Park?
Tombigbee Lake State Park is located six miles south of Tupelo, Mississippi, just off Mississippi Highway 6. If you've never heard of Tupelo, it does have a significant claim to fame: It was the birthplace of the King of Rock ‘n Roll himself, Elvis Presley. Tombigbee State Park itself sits on 40 acres of land surrounding 90-acre Lake Lee, which is where you're bound to spend much of your time when you visit!
What is So Special About Tombigbee State Park?
In addition to its natural attractions and lake, Tombigbee State Park does have a unique architectural style to boast of. An attempt was made to blend the man-made landscape of the park with the natural surroundings through the construction of rustic-style buildings. All of the buildings were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. in the 1930s and were constructed in this style, and they retain their historical and architectural integrity to this day.
The Best Time To Visit Tombigbee State Park
Camping in Tombigbee State Park can be a fantastic experience throughout the year, as each season offers its own unique charm and activities. Here's a guide to camping in each season at Tombigbee State Park:
Spring
Spring brings mild temperatures and vibrant greenery to the park. Daytime temperatures range from the 60s to 70s°F (15-25°C), while nights can be cooler. Spring is an ideal time for camping in Tombigbee State Park. The comfortable temperatures make it enjoyable to stay in tents or cabins. It is also a great time for birdwatching as migratory birds return to the area. Explore the park's hiking trails as wildflowers bloom, creating picturesque landscapes. Spring is a prime season for fishing as many fish species become active.
Summer
Summers in Tombigbee State Park are warm and humid, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Nights remain warm but more comfortable. If you camp during the summer, opt for shaded campsites or cabins with air conditioning to escape the heat. Enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the park's lake. The beach area is perfect for cooling off.
Summer nights are ideal for campfires, stargazing, and listening to the sounds of nature.
Fall
Fall is a favorite season for camping in Tombigbee State Park. Daytime temperatures range from the 60s to 80s°F (15-30°C), with cooler nights. The fall foliage in the park is stunning, making it a perfect time for camping. Bring warm clothing for the cooler evenings. The park’s hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the changing leaves. It's also a great time for wildlife viewing. Continue to enjoy fishing as many species remain active into the fall.
Winter
Winters in Tombigbee State Park are chilly, with daytime temperatures ranging from 40s to 60s°F (4-20°C). Nights can be cold, often dipping below freezing. Winter camping can be peaceful but be prepared for cold nights. Cabins with heating are a comfortable option. Hiking is enjoyable during the cooler weather, but dress warmly and be cautious of slippery trails. Winter is also an excellent time for birdwatching, as many species remain in the area. If you seek solitude and a quieter camping experience, winter is a less crowded time to visit.
What is There To Do at Tombigbee Lake State Park?
When you visit Tombigbee State Park, the goal is to relax and have fun, and there's plenty of fun and relaxation to be had while there! What you'll do depends on what you like to do. Anglers can fish Lake Lee for largemouth bass, crappie, bream, and catfish.
If you're really into more active outdoor activities, bring your mountain bike along with you to explore Tombigbee State Park's 11-mile MTB trail. Keep an eye out for wildlife on the nature trail, and try out the disc golf course. After you're done with that, fire up the grills and enjoy a meal in the great outdoors at one of the many picnic tables located in the park.
Can You Go RV Camping at Tombigbee State Park?
Yes! There are 20 developed RV camping spots at Tombigbee State Park, and in order to secure one for yourself, you're advised to try to make a reservation as soon as you start planning a visit to the area. All of the RV campsites at Tombigbee State Park have picnic tables, grills, and fire rings, along with electric and water hookups. In addition, 18 of the 20 RV campsites at Tombigbee State Park have sewer connections.
If you're in need of a hot shower while staying at Tombigbee State Park, there's an on-site bathhouse for that purpose. The bathhouse also has laundry facilities in case you need to wash clothes during your stay.
You can reserve RV campsites at Tombigbee State Park up to 24 months in advance via Reserve America.
RV Campgrounds Near Tombigbee State Park
Looking to go camping near Tombigbee State Park? Lucky for you, we’re going to share the top RV campgrounds in the area.
As mentioned above, the park itself has an RV campground that offers electric and water hookups, picnic tables, and more. If you’re looking to be in the middle of the action, you can’t beat staying inside the state park!
Capacity: 20 RV sites
The Campground at Barnes Crossing is another excellent option for RV camping near Tombigbee State Park. This campground offers full hookups, pull-thru sites, free cable and Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, an on-site manager, and more.
Capacity: 54 RV sites
Lakelife RV Park is located in Saltillo, MS, and offers guests well-maintained sites in a scenic area. All sites have full hookups, free cable and Wi-Fi, and access to a playground, a pet-friendly area, and more. There are clean modern restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, picnic tables, and grills also available.
Capacity: 20 RV sites
Why Tombigbee State Park May Be Your New Favorite Getaway
Tombigbee State Park is admittedly not the most well-known of state parks in Mississippi or the U.S., but this is absolutely to your advantage. This means that Tombigbee Lake State Park is something of a hidden gem, unspoiled by crowds and development. Plus, Lake Lee isn't in danger of being overfished, which means anglers stand a fair chance at a good catch.
In short, Tombigbee State Park is about as family-friendly as a state park can get anywhere. Visit and see how easy it is to lose your cares at Tombigbee State Park. You'll be hooked for life!
Visit Tombigbee State Park with Cruise America
Now that you know all about Tombigbee Lake State Park, it's time to go there. Before you check out the reservation system to see when and which RV camping spots are available, you need to grab yourself an RV rental.
Cruise America has just the RV rental you need for a relaxing getaway. Visit the Cruise America rental page or give us a call today, and get on your way to your next adventure.y to your next getaway!