There is so much more to Mississippi than award-winning state parks and amazing historical architecture. The state is filled with hidden gems just waiting to be explored. And just to make it a bit easier, we’ve put together this list of some of the state’s best kept secrets that you definitely don’t want to miss. In no particular order, here are some of our favorite hidden gems in Mississippi you’ll want to visit.

1. Chautauqua Park and the Treetop Trail, Crystal Springs
www.crystalspringsmiss.com
www.crystalspringsmiss.com
This 1500 foot boardwalk is placed high in the trees, allowing nature-lovers the chance to get an up close view of wildlife all while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Want to learn more? Check out our previous article.
2. Cat's Den Cave Preserve, Smith County
www.nature.org
www.nature.org
Caves may be extremely rare in Mississippi, but Cat’s Den Cave is proof they do exist. The preserve is home to rare plants, animals, and, of course, Cat’s Den Cave.
3. Red Bluff, near Morgantown
Ivan Illidge/Flickr
Ivan Illidge/Flickr
Known as "Mississippi’s Little Grand Canyon," Red Bluff is one of the state’s best kept secrets. Unlike its famous counterpart, Red Bluff is constantly getting bigger due to erosion.

Want to learn more? Check out our previous article.
4. Sky Lake Wildlife Management Area, near Belzoni
Dave Bonta/Flickr
skylakemississippi.org
Acquired by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks in the early 2000’s, Sky Lake Wildlife Management Area is home to one of the state’s largest (and possibly the oldest) bald cypress trees. The area also features a 1,700 foot long boardwalk, so that visitors can easily tour the area and take in the breathtaking scenery.

Want to learn more? Check out our previous article.

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5. Loess Bluff, Natchez Trace Parkway
www.natcheztracetravel.com
Chris M. Morris/Flickr
This geological formation is believed to have formed as a result of windswept sand and clay being deposited in the area during the last ice age. Loess Bluff not only offers spectacular views but also has historical significance as the area played a huge role in the location of forts and batteries during the Battle of Vicksburg.
6. Small Town, Mississippi, near Jackson
www.mdac.state.ms.us
www.mdac.state.ms.us
Ever wondered what life was like in Mississippi during the 1920’s? Well, here’s your chance to find out. The life-size replica of a quintessential small southern town is ran by the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, and includes everything from a school house and doctor’s office to a general store and cotton gin.

Want to learn more? Check out their website.
7. Palestine Gardens, Lucedale
palestinegardens.org
palestinegardens.org
In 1960, Reverend Walter Harvell Jackson decided to bring the Bible to life. Just how did he do it? By building a completely accurate scale model of the Holy Land. The utterly unique experience is a must-see, and the best part? There is no admission charge.

Want to learn more? Check out our previous article.
8. All-American Rose Garden, Hattiesburg
Visit Mississippi/Flickr
John Perry/Flickr
Opened in 1974, the All-American Rose Garden attracts visitors from all over the country. The University of Southern Mississippi campus landmark features about 800 separate bushes adorned with the beautiful flowers.

Want to learn more? Check out their website.

Know of other hidden gems in Mississippi? Add to the list in the comments section below!

 

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More to Explore

Hidden gems in Mississippi

Jackie Ann | February 08, 2021

What unique tours in Mississippi can I take?

The Magnolia State is home to many fascinating destinations that are steeped in a rich history. No matter the region, you’re sure to find a tour that will pique your interest. Take a tour of Jim Henson’s hometown and view installations featuring one-of-a-kind Muppet memorabilia at The Birthplace of Kermit The Frog Museum in Leland. In Claiborne County, the ghostly ruins of Windsor Plantation are awe-inspiring. The colossal antebellum Greek Revival mansion was destroyed by fire in 1890 leaving only 23 Corinthian columns standing. A beloved Jackson attraction is the Eudora Welty House and Garden where the Pulitzer prize-winning author lived for 80 years. Visitors will find  Eudora’s books scattered around the house and can view some of her edited works.

What are the best day trips in Mississippi?

With so many interesting attractions across Mississippi, finding a day trip destination is easy, deciding on which one to visit is the hard part! When planning a beach day, Ship Island is a must. Just south of Biloxi, this tranquil barrier island is accessible by ferry and offers beachgoers views of breathtaking crystalline waters and native wildlife. Keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins swimming alongside the ferry! Just north of Holly Springs, nature lovers and history buffs alike will be delighted by Strawberry Plains Audubon Center located on the grounds of the historic Davis House. Witness the mass migration of Ruby-throated hummingbirds during the center’s annual Hummingbird Festival. The Hattiesburg Zoo is full of family fun with a variety of animal exhibits and educational programs for adults and children at Asbury Discovery Center.

What are the best free things to do in Mississippi?

You don’t have to break the bank to find fun and fascinating activities in Mississippi. An unforgettable adventure within your budget just takes a little planning! Explore the Delta’s musical legacy on The Mississippi Blues Trail. Easy to follow maps help visitors self-guide their tour through the region’s most notable sites. In Winston County, step back in time to 600 CE at the Nanih Waiya Historical Site. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this ancient platform mound constructed by indigenous people will ignite your imagination. On a pleasant day, drive along the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway. Research the area’s many historic and cultural landmarks, or stop off for a hiking, biking or horseback excursion.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Chautauqua Dr, Crystal Springs, MS 39059, USA
24004 Old River Rd, Ocean Springs, MS 39565, USA
Red Bluff, Mississippi 39483, USA
Sky Lake WMA boardwalk, 1090 Simmons Rd, Belzoni, MS 39038, USA
Natchez Trace Parkway, Natchez, Mississippi, USA
Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, 1150 Lakeland Dr, Jackson, MS 39216, USA
Palestine Garden, Mississippi 39452, USA
Hattiesburg, MS 39401, USA