Holmes County State Park
🏕️ Depression-Era CCC Park with Two Lakes, Cabins, and Pine Forest Trails — A Civilian Conservation Corps gem in central Mississippi with fishing lakes, rustic cabins, disc golf, and trails through rolling pine hills — Holmes County, Mississippi
Holmes County State Park is one of Mississippi’s original Civilian Conservation Corps parks, built during the 1930s with the hand-laid stone and timber construction characteristic of Depression-era New Deal recreation projects. Located near Durant in the rolling pine hills of central Mississippi, the park centers around two small fishing lakes surrounded by mature pine forest, offering a quiet retreat far from the state’s coastal tourism corridor.
The park provides an uncommonly complete package for a Mississippi state park: rustic cabins, modern campground with hookups, a swimming pool, disc golf course, archery range, and nature trails winding through longleaf and loblolly pine forests. It’s a favorite of anglers targeting largemouth bass, bream, and catfish in the park’s two stocked lakes.
What to Do
| Activity | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fishing | Two stocked lakes | Bass, bream, catfish — MS license required |
| Camping | 28 sites with hookups | Water/electric, bathhouse, fire rings |
| Cabins | CCC-era rustic cabins | A/C, kitchen, linens — book early |
| Hiking | Nature trails | Pine forest, rolling hills, wildlife |
| Disc Golf | 18-hole course | Through wooded terrain |
| Archery | Range available | Bring own equipment |
| Swimming Pool | Seasonal (summer) | Pool — not lake swimming |
Camping & Lodging
| Option | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| RV/Tent Site (hookups) | $15–$22/night | Water/electric, 28 sites |
| Rustic Cabin | $55–$85/night | CCC-era construction, A/C, kitchen |
| Day Use | FREE | No entrance fee |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 60–82°F | Fishing (bass spawn), wildflowers, comfortable camping |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 85–95°F | Pool open, full facilities, hot/humid |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | 55–78°F | Best weather, bass fishing, deer season nearby |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 35–55°F | Quiet, cabin getaways, crappie fishing |
Frequently Asked Questions
What CCC structures are still standing?
Several original CCC cabins from the 1930s are still in use as guest cabins, along with stone and timber picnic shelters. The rustic architecture is part of the park’s charm.
Can I swim in the lakes?
No lake swimming. The park has a seasonal swimming pool (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day).
Is it free to visit?
Day use is free. Camping and cabin fees apply for overnight stays.
What fish are in the lakes?
Largemouth bass, bream (bluegill/sunfish), and channel catfish. The lakes are stocked. Mississippi fishing license required.
How far from Jackson?
About 55 miles (1 hour) north of Jackson via I-55 to Durant.
Are there trails?
Yes. Nature trails wind through pine forest and around the lakes. Mostly easy terrain suitable for families.
Is the disc golf course good?
Yes. An 18-hole course through wooded terrain — popular with local disc golfers. Bring your own discs.
Do I need reservations?
Recommended for cabins, especially weekends and holidays. Campsites available first-come, first-served but reservations are wise during peak season.
🏕️ Mississippi’s CCC Heritage
1930s cabins, two fishing lakes, pine forest trails, and a disc golf course in the quiet heart of central Mississippi. A classic state park experience.
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