Golden Memorial State Park

Mississippi’s Hidden Gem — Golden Memorial State Park, 15-Acre Spring-Fed Lake, Record Loblolly Pine, Historic One-Room Schoolhouse Site, Leake County Near Walnut Grove

Golden Memorial State Park is a day-use recreation area in Leake County, Mississippi, near Walnut Grove, managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP). This quiet, off-the-beaten-path park centers on a 15-acre spring-fed lake and is home to the second-largest loblolly pine tree in Mississippi. Features include 15-acre spring-fed fishing lake stocked with bass, bream, and catfish, the Loblolly Trail showcasing Mississippi’s second-largest loblolly pine, site of a historic post-Civil War one-room schoolhouse, two picnic pavilions, playground, and unpaved boat launch, and small boats (14-foot Jon boats or smaller) with trolling motors only.

Spring-Fed Lake

The park’s 15-acre lake is fed by natural springs, keeping the water clear and cool. The lake is regularly stocked and supports excellent fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill bream, and channel catfish. A valid Mississippi fishing license is required for anglers ages 16–65. Swimming and skiing are prohibited.

The Loblolly Trail

The park’s nature trail leads to the second-largest loblolly pine in Mississippi — a towering specimen that has been recognized by state forestry officials. The trail also passes the site of a post-Civil War one-room schoolhouse, offering a glimpse into Reconstruction-era rural Mississippi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is camping available?

Golden Memorial is primarily a day-use facility, though limited overnight camping may be available. Contact Roosevelt State Park for current information.

What boats are allowed?

Small boats only — 14-foot Jon boats or smaller, with trolling motors or no motors. An unpaved boat launch is available at no charge.

Insider Tips

Rural Mississippi: Golden Memorial represents rural Mississippi — where small communities preserve traditions dating to the antebellum era. Pro tip: Mississippi’s literary tradition is extraordinary — William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, Richard Wright, and Tennessee Williams all called Mississippi home. Civil Rights: Mississippi was the epicenter of the civil rights movement — the 1964 Freedom Summer murders in Neshoba County shocked the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened during Freedom Summer?

In summer 1964, hundreds of volunteers went to Mississippi to register Black voters — facing organized violence. On June 21, civil rights workers James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner were murdered by KKK members including local law enforcement in Neshoba County. The murders and the investigation that followed helped pass the Civil Rights Act (1964) and Voting Rights Act (1965) — transforming American law and society forever.