If you are looking for the top vacation destinations in the US, you may not find Mississippi on that list. You may even find it in the last quarter of preferred destinations. However, this does not mean the state has no major attractions. If you are a camper and prefer more of the less beaten path traveler that loves nature, picturesque landscapes, scenic rivers, and tranquil environments, Mississippi is the state you want to head out to.

This guide highlights the best campgrounds in Mississippi and other attractions near them, so keep reading for ideas if you are planning a camping excursion in the state.

3 Best Campgrounds in Mississippi

Tranquil Haven Campground

The Tranquil Haven campground is perfect if you prefer a camping experience that offers a feeling of being in nature while enjoying some modern-day comports.

Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, the camp offers a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts but also offers laundry facilities, a playground, and a game room. Activities to enjoy on this site include hiking, fishing, and bird and wildlife watching.

Oakwood Retreat

The Oakwood Retreat is located in Mississippi's serene countryside amidst a majestic oak tree grove. Its countryside setting gives it a peaceful ambiance, allowing campers to disconnect from the hustles and bustles of life and get immersed in nature's tranquility.

The site management focuses on keeping the environment as natural as possible, making it an ideal location if you are looking for avid nature lovers. Activities to enjoy in the campground include nature walks, bird watching, and nature photography.

Lefleur's Bluff State Park

If you can only make it as far as Jackson but still want to enjoy some camping experience. You should check out LeFleur's Bluff State Park. The park covers over 300 acres and has 28 campsites, some among America's top 100 campsites.

Fun activities in the park include hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and bird watching. You also enjoy the park's nature center, which features exhibits of all local plants and animals. Due to its proximity to a city, you should book a spot in advance to ensure you will get one.

Other Attractions in Mississipi

Music Venues

Mississippi is the home of the Delta blues. Also, it is home to some of America's greatest singers, such as Elvis Presley, Jimmie Rodgers, B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and John Lee Hookers.

As a result, something is happening around the music scene all year round. This guide of venues that host shows celebrating the musical heritage of Mississippi is a good read for tips on venues you may want to visit.

Besides enjoying the music, you also learn about the state's musical heritage and sample the music that ruled the scenes decades ago.

The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is a moving tribute to the civil rights struggle in America. So if you love history or want to teach some bit of history to your kids, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson is a must-visit.

You can expect to see and learn the origins of segregation, heroes of the civil rights movement, and the murder of Emmett Till, among others.

It is important to note that artifacts on display can be subject to change, so you should check out what is on display by going to the museum's website beforehand for the most up-to-date information on what to expect.

Vicksburg National Military Park

While the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum focuses on the history of the civil rights movement, the Vicksburg National Military Park narrows down to the Civil War Battle of Vicksburg.

The park features well-preserved trenches, forts, and artillery positions, offering visitors a peek at what it looked like being part of the war and the sacrifices soldiers made for the freedoms Americans enjoy today.

The experience of visiting the park leaves a lasting impression and can evoke feelings of patriotism and appreciation for the little things you probably take for granted.

Elvis Presley's Birth Place

If you love Elvis Presley's music like most Americans, his birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi, may be among the attractions that interest you. The family home where the music icon was born is a two-roomed house that has been well-preserved and converted into a museum. The museum showcases exhibits that chronicle the icon's childhood, such as photographs, fascinating stories and other artefacts.

It offers the rare opportunity of stepping into the past and immersing yourself in the music icon's life which significantly changes your outlook on his music. The park also features the chapel where Elvis in his family attended church, which explains his inclination to gospel music.

Final Words

Mississippi offers a rare kind of beauty. Unfortunately, it ranks at the bottom tier for favourite travel destinations. But as highlighted in this guide, there is a lot to see in Mississippi, but that also depends on what you call fun.

If you love history and country life, then Mississippi is a place you want to visit for a family vacation or road trip. Also, it is important to note that attractions in Mississippi are not limited to the ones highlighted in this post. There is so much more to see in terms of history and fun activities along the stretch of the majestic Mississippi River.