Tupelo's Great Outdoors: Where Your Next Adventure Begins!

Discover Outdoor Adventures in Tupelo

Water Recreation
Family-Friendly
Hiking & Biking
Courts and Courses
FAQ
Rentable Equipment

Escape the ordinary and find yourself in Tupelo, Mississippi, where the rolling North Mississippi Hills invite you to play. Picture your days spent exploring green state parks, where trails wind through the trees, each step a discovery.

Imagine the peaceful rhythm of paddling on calm waters, sunlight dancing on the surface. Think of the rewarding views from the scenic trails you've explored. Local shops make getting the gear you need easy, and rentals are ready when you are. Whether you love the outdoors or are just curious to try, Tupelo is positively the place for your next adventure.

Water Recreation in Tupelo

Tupelo is riddled with waterways and watering holes as far as the eye can see. The city isn’t short of ways to cool off in the great outdoors. Explore the many places to kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or simply dip your toes in the water.

Tombigbee State Park

264 Cabin Drive
$2 entry fee

Find plenty of recreational fun on the Tupelo waters at the Tombigbee State Park, where the gentle waters beckon for fishing lines, paddleboards, and the smooth glide of kayaks. Lined with trees, Tombigbee State Park offers a secluded atmosphere just 6 miles south of Tupelo.

Elvis Presley Lake & Campground

272 Rd 995
Park is free to enter

Tupelo is where Elvis Presley called home, and it's now home to the honorary Elvis Presley Lake and Campground. The large, nearly 330-acre lake provides plenty of water for anglers, boaters, kayakers, and more to splash into the water and experience Tupelo at its finest.

Trace State Park

2139 Faulkner Road, Belden
$2 entry fee

Nearby Tupelo is Trace State Park. Traveling by RV? This location is ideal for you! Pick a spot by the water reserve and appreciate a stunning view before renting a boat or paddle boat from their on-site location.

Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities

Looking for some outdoor fun with the kiddos? No worries, there are dozens of kid-friendly ways to enjoy the nature surrounding Tupelo. Get a glimpse of wildlife, and play at the local playground. Our accessible parks make for family fun, no matter your ability level.

Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo

2272 North Coley Road
Tickets starting at $11

The Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo offers a fascinating glimpse into the park's 260 residents with a walk-through of the zoo or an up-close drive-through safari. Opt to feed some of the zoo’s wildlife, like their goats, sheep, and deer, or dare to adventure through their zip-line park, giving you a bird's eye view of the animals.

Fairpark

71 Troy Street
Free entry

When the summer heat is too much, head to the center of town to Downtown Tupelo’s Fairpark. It is a hub of activity, featuring a splash pad perfect for cooling off on warm days and a playground where children can burn off energy.

Ballard Park

2629 West Main Street
Free entry

For those who need accessibility accommodations, don’t think you have to miss out on all the fun. Just a short distance away, Ballard Park offers a new, accessible playground, ensuring fun for children of all abilities, and also boasts green spaces for play, along with an expansive lake and walking track.

Hiker and Biker’s Guide to Tupelo Trails

Get to know our town on foot, or by bike. We’ve mapped out trails throughout Tupelo that guide you through nature, history, and culture, all within winding trails that are sure to give you a new perspective on the city.

Heritage Trails

Multiple Locations
Free

Your feet will lead you down paths of discovery. Explore Tupelo’s trails, from murals and neon lights to Civil Rights, Civil War, and Chickasaw Heritage. These are self-guided and self-paced trails that have digital maps to help you navigate the path. If you’re a history buff as well as a hiker, these are for you.

Natchez Trace Parkway

Multiple Locations
Free

Cyclists and hikers revel in the scenic beauty of the Natchez Trace Parkway. Along the 444-mile byway, marvel at waterfalls, soak in the colors of the local foliage, and take a breath of fresh air.

Elvis’ Tupelo Self-Guided Bicycle Tour

Multiple Locations
Free

Wanting to get to know the King’s hometown a little better, go on the Elvis’ Tupelo Self-Guided Bicycle Tour, to trace the early steps of the rock and roll star. Bike from Johnnie's Drive-In to Fairpark and Tupelo Hardware Company, all top spots visited by Presley himself.

Courts and Courses in Tupelo

Get some friendly competition going on one of the many courts and courses available for play throughout Tupelo. Whether some morning pickleball is in your cards, or an afternoon game of golf, these spots in town will provide perfect outdoor fun.

Veterans Memorial Park

800 North Veterans Memorial Boulevard
Free entry

Veterans Memorial Park stands out with its unique combination of family-friendly fun and space for sports. Take to their disc golf course to throw around your frisbee at a free 18-hole course. Following your game, feel free to explore their walking trails to keep your heart rate up and explore the community park.

Dot Cooper Kelly Park

906 Fillmore Drive
Free entry

Pickleball fanatics unite! We have a huge selection of 12 fully lit, outdoor concrete pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets. They are free to use and ready for some stiff competition!

Bel Air Golf Course & Tupelo National Golf Course

2107 Country Club Road & 3481 Big Oaks Blvd.
Bel Air starting at $25 | Tupelo National starting at $45

These two golf courses in town offer public access, within the rules and regulations of the clubs, for those who enjoy a little time on the links. The well-manicured greens and challenging holes dare you to take your best swing at Tupelo’s finest courses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which locations are dog-friendly?

  • Tombigbee State Park
  • Elvis Presley Lake & Campground
  • Trace State Park
  • Ballard Park
  • Veterans Memorial Park
  • Natchez Trace Parkway trails
  • Heritage Trails
  • Elvis' Tupelo Bike Tour route
  • Fairpark

Is there camping available near Tupelo?

Yes! Tupelo has several camp sites, including the Elvis Presley Lake & Campground. Additional sites include the Campground at the Barnes Crossing, Trace State Park, and Tombigbee State Park.

Are Tupelo's parks wheelchair accessible?

Not all of Tupelo’s parks are wheelchair accessible; however, Ballard Park features wheelchair-friendly structures, Veterans Memorial Park and Gumtree Park have wheelchair ramps and paved paths.

Is swimming allowed at Tombigbee State Park or Elvis Presley Lake?

No, swimming is not permitted in either body of water.

Do I need a fishing license to fish in Tupelo?

Yes! Both non-residents and residents require a fishing license. Apply for a license through the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website.

Outdoor Gear and Sporting Goods in Tupelo

No equipment? No problem! We want you to experience the great outdoors as much as you want adventure. Head to any of our collection of rental and retail equipment stores for golfing goods, hiking help, and more.

Trails & Treads

3870 Market Center Drive, Suite 200

Every adventure deserves the right gear. For those aiming to conquer the local trails on two wheels, a visit to Trails & Treads is essential, where you'll find the perfect bike and all the necessary cycling accessories for your pedaling escapades.

Core Cycle + Outdoor

1697 N. Coley Rd.

If your adventures lean more toward exploring on foot, whether hitting the hiking trails around Tupelo or needing reliable sneakers for court activities, Core Cycle + Outdoor offers a selection of sturdy hiking boots and agile tennis shoes to keep you moving comfortably.

Pro Golf

119 S Industrial Rd

Should your sporting inclinations take you to the greens, Pro Golf is the place to find the right clubs, golf balls, and apparel for a satisfying round of golf.

Swimming Pools of Tupelo

1215 Nelle St.

Finally, for those who enjoy a good match of tennis or pickleball, a visit to Swimming Pools of Tupelo isn't just for a dip; the store stocks the right racquets and balls to ensure you're well-equipped for a friendly or competitive game.

Plan Your Next Outdoor Getaway in Tupelo

Tupelo's outdoor offerings create a tapestry of adventure, from its inviting trails and calm waters to the well-stocked local shops and accessible parks. Whether seeking active exploration or peaceful immersion in nature, a visit here provides ample opportunities to connect with the outdoors. There’s always more to see and do in Tupelo. Plan your next positively immersive getaway and imagine what you can do here!

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Author

Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau

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