Mississippi is home to a wealth of charming lakeside towns, each offering scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and warm Southern hospitality. Here are ten of the loveliest lakeside towns in the Magnolia State:
1. Columbus
Located on the banks of Columbus Lake, Columbus offers a vibrant historic district, scenic River Walk Trail, and abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The town is also rich in history, with landmarks like the Mississippi University for Women and antebellum homes.
2. Water Valley
This quaint town sits near Enid Lake, renowned for its fishing and waterside parks such as Bynum Creek and Water Valley Landing. Water Valley’s lively downtown, local eateries, and annual festivals like the Watermelon Carnival add to its small-town charm.
3. Grenada
Nestled beside Grenada Lake—the largest body of water in Mississippi—Grenada is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is famous for boating, kayaking, and especially crappie fishing. The area also features golf courses and hiking trails.
4. Greenville
Situated along Lake Ferguson and the Mississippi River, Greenville boasts picturesque waterfront views, vibrant arts and music scenes, and attractions like Warfield Point Park. The city is a hub for festivals and cultural events, making it a lively lakeside destination.
5. Collinsville
This small rural community is located near Okatibbee Lake, a tranquil spot for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Collinsville offers a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to the lake’s natural beauty and recreational activities.
6. Iuka
Iuka is the gateway to Pickwick Lake, a sprawling reservoir extending into Tennessee and Alabama. The town is known for its excellent bass fishing, water sports, and proximity to Tishomingo State Park, which features hiking and rock formations.
7. Madison (Ross Barnett Reservoir)
Madison sits on the shores of the Ross Barnett Reservoir, a popular spot for sailing, fishing, and water skiing. The city offers luxurious waterfront homes, shopping, dining, and access to the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway.
8. Walls (Horn Lake)
Walls is a peaceful lakeside town near Horn Lake, a favorite for kayaking, canoeing, and birdwatching. The area is known for its scenic beauty and proximity to Memphis, TN, offering both tranquility and urban amenities.
9. Ridgeland
Located just north of Jackson, Ridgeland is set along the Ross Barnett Reservoir. The town features lively cultural events, art trails, and water-based recreation, making it a vibrant lakeside community.
10. Flora
Flora is a charming small town near the Barnett Reservoir. It’s known for its Southern hospitality, proximity to the Mississippi Petrified Forest, and easy access to fishing and water activities at the reservoir.
These lakeside towns provide a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and welcoming communities, making them some of the loveliest places to visit or live in Mississippi
Sources:
- https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/13-prettiest-small-towns-in-mississippi.html
- https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/6-best-lakeside-towns-in-mississippi.html
- https://www.redfin.com/blog/lakes-in-mississippi-to-live-on/
- https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g28945-Activities-c57-t162-Mississippi.html
- https://visitmississippi.org/experiences/mississippi-hidden-treasures/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sardis_Lake_(Mississippi)