🏍️ 35 Miles of ATV Trails, 565-Acre Fishing Lake, and Natchez Trace Heritage — Mississippi’s Action Park — A 2,500-acre state park with 35 miles of multi-use trails for ATVs, horses, and mountain bikes, a 565-acre fishing lake, cabins, 76 RV sites, and Natchez Trace history — Pontotoc County, Mississippi
Trace State Park is Mississippi’s premier action-sport park — 35 miles of multi-use trails open to ATVs, dirt bikes, horses, and mountain bikes, plus a 565-acre lake stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Named after the historic Natchez Trace that once connected Nashville to Natchez, the park sits on 2,500 acres of Pontotoc Ridge terrain just minutes from Tupelo.
This is one of the few state parks in the Southeast that actively welcomes off-road vehicles — ATVs, side-by-sides (max 50″ width), and dirt bikes ride the same trail network as equestrians. Mountain bikers get dedicated single-track trails ranging from beginner to intermediate. After the ride, cool off at the two concrete boat ramps or fish from ADA-accessible piers on Trace Lake.
What to Do
| Activity | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ATV/ORV Trails | 35 miles | ATVs, side-by-sides (≤50″), dirt bikes |
| Horseback Riding | 35-mile shared network | Bring your own horse |
| Mountain Biking | Dedicated single-track | Beginner to intermediate |
| Fishing | 565-acre Trace Lake | Bass, crappie, catfish; ADA piers |
| Camping | 76 full-hookup RV sites | + tent and primitive options |
| Cabins | Furnished cottages | Reservable 24 months ahead |
| Boating | 2 concrete boat ramps | With courtesy piers |
ORV Rules
| Rule | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Max Width | 50 inches | No Jeeps or full-size 4x4s |
| Helmet | Required | All riders, all times |
| Spark Arrestor | Mandatory | USFS-approved |
| Camping at Trailheads | NOT allowed | Day-use trailheads only |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 55–78°F | Trail riding, bass fishing, camping |
| Fall (Oct–Nov) | 50–72°F | ATV season, crappie, cooler rides |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 78–95°F | Lake fishing, evening rides |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 35–55°F | Off-peak trails, catfish |
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Day Use | FREE | Park entry |
| Trail Fee | $5–$10 | ORV/equestrian trails |
| RV Campsite | $20–$28/night | 76 sites, full hookups |
| Cabin | $70–$120/night | Furnished cottages |
| ATV Weekend | $30–$56 | 35mi trails + campsite + lake |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really ride an ATV here?
Yes — 35 miles of trails. Trace is one of the few state parks in the Southeast that welcomes ATVs, side-by-sides (max 50″ width), and dirt bikes. Helmets and spark arrestors are required.
Is the lake good for fishing?
Excellent. Trace Lake (565 acres) supports strong populations of largemouth bass, crappie, bream, and catfish. ADA-accessible fishing piers and two boat ramps are available.
What’s the Natchez Trace connection?
The park is named after the historic Natchez Trace, the ancient trail connecting Nashville to Natchez used by Native Americans, explorers, and frontiersmen like Davy Crockett.
More parks nearby: Tombigbee State Park is within about an hour’s drive, while Wall Doxey State Park lies within about an hour’s drive.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Mississippi state parks online at reserve.mdwfp.com.
🏍️ Mississippi’s ATV Paradise
35 miles of ORV trails, 565-acre fishing lake, cabins, and Natchez Trace heritage — the action park near Tupelo.
Wildlife & Nature
Trace SP — along the historic Natchez Trace. The park’s Trace Lake, pine-hardwood forest, and rolling hills support white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles. ATV and equestrian trails.
Nearby Attractions
Pontotoc — nearby. Natchez Trace Parkway — nearby.
Park Location
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