Leroy Percy State Park
Mississippi’s Oldest State Park — Alligators, Artesian Springs, and Ancient Cypress
Leroy Percy State Park, located near Hollandale in the Mississippi Delta, is the oldest state park in Mississippi — built by the Civilian Conservation Corps beginning in 1934. What draws visitors today is something far older than the CCC stonework: a resident American alligator population living in a lake fed by natural artesian springs, surrounded by towering ancient bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss.
This is Delta country — flat, fertile, and steeped in natural history. The park occupies a remnant of the hardwood forest that once covered the Mississippi floodplain, creating a habitat unlike any other state park in Mississippi. Two observation towers overlook Alligator Lake, offering safe viewing of the resident gators basking along the shore. The artesian spring water creates a unique microclimate, supporting species typically found much further south. It’s the kind of place where you can watch an alligator from a tower, cast for catfish in the evening, and fall asleep in a CCC-era cabin listening to owls in the cypress canopy.
Things to Do
Alligator Watching
Two dedicated observation towers overlook Alligator Lake, providing safe, elevated viewing of the resident alligator population. Gators are most active in warm months (April–October) and are often visible basking on the shoreline during midday. The towers include interpretive signage about alligator behavior and the park’s ecosystem.
Hiking
The Alligator Lake Trail winds through the Delta hardwood forest along the lake’s edge, passing through ancient cypress groves, CCC-era structures, and moss-draped oak canopy. The terrain is flat and easy — this is the Mississippi Delta, after all.
Fishing
The park’s waters support largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Fishing is popular from the bank and from small boats. A Mississippi fishing license is required.
Hunting
The adjacent wildlife management area provides seasonal hunting opportunities for deer, squirrel, turkey, duck, and dove. Leroy Percy is one of the few Mississippi state parks integrated with a WMA. Check the MDWFP website for current season dates and regulations.
Camping
| Type | Sites | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| RV Sites | 16 developed | Water & electric hookups, paved pads |
| Tent Camping | Primitive sites | Fire rings, basic facilities |
| Vacation Cabins | 8 | Climate-controlled, furnished, kitchen |
| Group Camp | 1 | Large group accommodations |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | ⭐ Alligator activity increases; wildflowers; bird migration; pleasant temps | Mosquitoes increasing; spring rain |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Peak alligator viewing; fishing; full shade under canopy | Hot and humid; intense mosquitoes; bring repellent |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | ⭐ Cooling temps; hunting season begins; fall birding; gators still active | Check WMA hunting schedules for restrictions |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cabin availability; winter birding; cypress silhouettes; solitude | Alligators dormant; cold; shorter days |
Visitor Tips
- Alligator safety: View alligators only from the observation towers. Do not approach the lake edge, feed the gators, or allow pets near the water. Alligators are wild and potentially dangerous.
- Artesian springs: The warm artesian spring water feeding Alligator Lake creates a unique microclimate — notice how the vegetation near the springs is lush and subtropical compared to the surrounding Delta forest.
- CCC history: Look for the original Civilian Conservation Corps stonework throughout the park — the shelters, walls, and structures date to the 1930s and are part of the park’s historic character.
- Mosquito preparation: The Delta wetland environment means mosquitoes can be extremely intense, especially May through September. Bring effective repellent and consider long sleeves.
- Disc golf: The park has a disc golf course — an unexpected bonus if you’re camping and looking for additional activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there real alligators at Leroy Percy State Park?
Yes — Leroy Percy State Park is home to a resident population of American alligators in Alligator Lake. The lake is fed by natural artesian springs that create warm water conditions favorable for alligators. Two observation towers provide safe, elevated viewing. Alligators are most visible during warm months (April–October), basking on the shoreline during midday.
Is Leroy Percy the oldest state park in Mississippi?
Yes — Leroy Percy State Park is officially recognized as the oldest state park in Mississippi. Construction began in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and many of the original stone structures remain in use today. The park preserves a remnant of the Delta hardwood forest ecosystem and features a unique combination of artesian springs, alligator habitat, and CCC-era architecture.
Last updated: April 2026
