Forestry Department

For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers across Mississippi, discovering the perfect spot to pitch a tent, park an RV, or settle into a cozy cabin is always a thrill. Nestled in the picturesque landscape just outside the historic city of Natchez, Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park emerges as a premier destination for a wide array of outdoor activities and comfortable camping experiences. While the provided information initially refers to "Forestry Department," it is important to clarify that the address and phone number correspond to Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park, which falls under the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.

This article is designed to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park, highlighting what makes it an ideal choice for locals throughout Mississippi. We will delve into its excellent location, the diverse range of services and amenities it offers, its standout features, and why it's consistently praised by visitors for its serene environment and recreational opportunities. Whether you're planning a fishing trip, a hiking adventure, or a peaceful family getaway, this state park promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of our beautiful state.

Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park, located at 75 Carthage Point Rd, Natchez, MS 39120, USA, is a vast and versatile recreational area spanning approximately 48,000 acres. It is renowned for its diverse offerings, catering to a wide spectrum of outdoor interests. From tranquil lake activities to challenging disc golf courses, and serene nature trails, the park provides an abundance of opportunities for relaxation and adventure. It is particularly famous for its lake, where the Mississippi record largemouth bass was caught, making it a hotspot for anglers.

The park is managed by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP), ensuring a high standard of maintenance and a focus on natural preservation. It offers a variety of overnight accommodations, including developed RV campsites, primitive tent camping areas, and newly renovated lakeside cabins. This allows visitors to choose the camping style that best suits their preferences, from rustic wilderness experiences to more comfortable, home-like stays. The overall environment is consistently described as quiet and peaceful, making it an excellent escape from daily life for individuals, couples, and families alike.

Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park is strategically located at 75 Carthage Point Rd, Natchez, MS 39120, USA. This address places it approximately 10 miles north of the historic city of Natchez, offering a unique blend of natural seclusion and convenient access to urban attractions. For locals across Mississippi, the park is easily accessible via state highways, providing a straightforward drive from various parts of the state.

The park's proximity to Natchez is a significant advantage. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the state park while being just a short drive away from Natchez's famous antebellum mansions, historical sites, charming downtown shops, and diverse dining options. This allows for a flexible itinerary where days can be spent exploring the rich history and culture of Natchez, and evenings can be enjoyed under the stars in the peaceful park environment. The drive into the park itself is often described as feeling like entering a "tunnel of trees," immediately setting a peaceful tone and suggesting a drop in temperature, enhancing the sense of a true natural retreat.

Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors. These services cater to various camping preferences and recreational needs:

• Developed RV Campsites: The park features 50 RV campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, grill, water, and electrical hookups (50/30/20 amp). Notably, sites 1-6 offer full hookups (water, electric, and sewer), while the remaining sites provide water and electricity only. Central sewage dumping stations are available in Campgrounds A and B for overnight guests.
• Tent Camping: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, there are eight unnumbered tent sites located in a wooded area near the developed campground. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are near bathhouses with hot showers.
• Vacation Cabins: As of January 2024, the park boasts 10 newly renovated lakeside cabins. Each cabin is equipped with heating and air-conditioning, bed and bath linens, and basic kitchen equipment, offering a comfortable "glamping" option.
• Bathhouses: Clean bathhouses with hot showers and coin-operated laundry units are available in the developed camping areas, providing essential conveniences for all campers.
• Boat Launch: A convenient boat launch provides easy access to Natchez Lake, which is well-stocked with catfish, bream, and largemouth bass, making it ideal for fishing and boating activities.
• Picnic Sites/Pavilions: Four picnic tables with grills are located in the day-use area near the park office, and two additional tables are near the boat launch. A large picnic pavilion with electricity, water, and tables is also available for reservations, perfect for gatherings.
• Playground: A large playground near the camp office provides entertainment for younger visitors.
• Disc Golf Course: The park offers a nine-hole amateur disc golf course, included in the entry fee, for guests to enjoy.
• Nature Trail: A 3/4-mile nature trail starts in Campground B and leads to the main entrance road, offering a pleasant walk through the park's natural environment.

Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park truly shines with an impressive array of features and highlights that make it a highly desirable destination for locals seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation:

• Record-Breaking Fishing Lake: Natchez Lake is famous for being the site where the Mississippi record largemouth bass (18.15 pounds) was caught in 1992. This makes it a prime location for anglers hoping to catch their own trophy bass, catfish, or bream.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: From fully equipped RV sites with concrete pads and full hookups (at some sites) to comfortable, newly renovated lakeside cabins and rustic tent sites, the park caters to all camping preferences.
• Scenic Beauty and Tranquility: Guests consistently praise the park for being "very quiet and peaceful," with reviews mentioning "lots of trees around you" and a "peaceful park" experience. The natural surroundings offer a serene escape.
• Accessibility to Historic Natchez: While offering a secluded feel, the park's proximity to Natchez (about 20-30 minutes away) allows easy day trips to explore antebellum homes, the Natchez Trace Parkway, and other historical and cultural attractions.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviews often highlight the cleanliness of the facilities, including bathhouses with hot showers and coin-operated laundry units, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground and disc golf course, the park provides activities that appeal to families and groups, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
• Nature Immersion: The presence of a nature trail and the overall wooded environment allow visitors to easily connect with the natural landscape, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the sounds of nature.
• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers note that "neighbors not on top of you" and "plenty of space," indicating that sites are well-spaced, providing privacy and a sense of openness.

Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park, as part of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) system, occasionally offers state-wide promotions that can benefit campers. For example, in January 2025, MDWFP offered all RV campsites at participating state parks, including Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park, for only $25 per night. These special offers are typically for a limited time and may have specific terms and conditions (e.g., valid only on certain days or excluding premium sites).

While ongoing promotions may vary, prospective visitors are encouraged to:

• Check the MDWFP Website: Regularly visit the official website of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks for announcements regarding seasonal discounts, special events, or holiday promotions.
• Inquire About Monthly Rates: Monthly camping options may be available. It is advisable to check directly with the park office for availability and rates if planning an extended stay.
• Ask About Discounts: State parks often offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, or other specific groups. It's always worth inquiring when making a reservation.
• Attend Events: The park hosts events, such as "Fishing with Fathers" in June 2025, which might be associated with special rates or activities.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any promotions or special offers, calling the park office directly is the best course of action.

For reservations, inquiries about specific site availability, current rates, or any other questions regarding Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 75 Carthage Point Rd, Natchez, MS 39120, USA
• Phone: (601) 442-0472
• Mobile Phone: +1 601-442-0472

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, holidays, or if you plan to stay in one of the newly renovated cabins. You can make reservations up to 12 months in advance. Direct communication with the park office will ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for a seamless and enjoyable visit.

For Mississippians seeking an enriching outdoor experience, Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park offers an exceptionally suitable and diverse destination. Its prime location at 75 Carthage Point Rd, just north of Natchez, strikes a perfect balance between natural tranquility and accessibility to one of Mississippi's most historically significant cities. This means locals can easily escape the urban grind and immerse themselves in nature, all within a convenient driving distance from various parts of the state.

The park's suitability for locals is underscored by its wide array of high-quality amenities and recreational opportunities. Whether you're an avid angler drawn to the record-breaking Natchez Lake, a family looking for comfortable RV sites with modern hookups and a playground, or an individual seeking the rustic charm of tent camping or the comfort of a newly renovated cabin, the park caters to all preferences. The consistently positive reviews highlighting its "very quiet and peaceful" environment, "clean" facilities, and "spacious sites" reinforce its reputation as a well-maintained and enjoyable destination.

Furthermore, the ability to seamlessly blend a nature retreat with cultural exploration in nearby Natchez—visiting antebellum homes or enjoying local events—adds immense value for Mississippi residents. Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park isn't just a campground; it’s a vital part of our state's natural heritage, offering a high-quality, accessible, and versatile outdoor experience that encourages repeated visits and fosters a deeper appreciation for Mississippi's unique landscapes and recreational opportunities. It’s a true local treasure for adventure and relaxation.