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Natchez Trace Parkway

Tupelo, MS

The Natchez Trace Parkway was established May 18, 1938 and originally follows an historic Indian trace, or trail, between Nashville, Tennessee and Natchez, Mississippi. Of the 444 miles of Parkway, 423 are completed. Thanks to the dedication and foresight of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Natchez Trace Parkway Association, the President of the United States signed a measure creating the Natchez Trace Parkway, with the proviso that it be administered by the National Park Service. The Parkway preserves significant historical sites such as Emerald Mound, the second largest ceremonial mound in the United States, plantation sites, pioneer stands/inns, archeological sites/villages, pioneer and slave cemeteries and an historic housing site, part of the resettlement program of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. The Trace tells the story of great leaders such as Meriwether Lewis and Andrew Jackson, and outlaws such as John Murrell and Samuel Mason. Today the "Old Trace" is paralleled by the modern Natchez Trace Parkway. Designated as part of the National Scenic Byways Program, the Natchez Trace Parkway was named an “All American Road” in 1995 to commemorate its beauty, landscape features, historic and intrinsic qualities. The commemorative Parkway represents a means by which travelers can capture a glimpse of history not easily forgotten while also enjoying a leisurely drive along an historic landscape.

CONTACTS

Email - natr_interpretation@nps.gov

Fax- 662 680 4033

Write to
Natchez Trace Parkway
2680 Natchez Trace Parkway
Tupelo, MS 38804

Phone
Visitor Information - 1 800 305 7417
Headquarters - 662 680 4025

TRAVEL BASICS

Getting There
CAR - Hauling and commercial trucks are prohibited, except for recreational horse and boat trailers. Speed limit is 50 mph. unless posted otherwise.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION - None

Weather & Climate
Winter is usually cold and damp with occasional warm periods. Spring and autumn are mild and warm.

Accessibility
Most restrooms are accessible, as are all parking areas at the Visitor Center and Contact Stations. Most trails are not accessible.

Getting Around
The Natchez Parkway is unfinished in Mississippi at the south end and in the Jackson area.

CAMPING

Camping along the Natchez Trace
Open All Year
Campgrounds are at Rocky Springs (22 sites), Jeff Busby (18 sites) and Meriwether Lewis (32 sites). There are no hookups and no fees. Camp sites cannot be reserved. Stays are limited to 15 days during periods of heavy visitation.

Meriwether Lewis, Jeff Busby and Rocky Springs sites
Open All Year
Natchez Trace Parkway provides campgrounds to help make your visit more enjoyable. We ask your cooperation in following these rules that are established in your interest, for your enjoyment, and for your safety. 1. Campsites are first-come, first-served. 2. No fees are charged. 3. Camp and park only at sites. 4. Hours of quiet are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. 5. No disturbing of the ground. 6. Please leave a clean campsite. 7. Build fires only in fireplaces; burn only dead or downed wood; observe campfire restrictions. 8. Pets must be leashed at all times (physically restrained). 10. Fireworks or firearms are prohibited. 11. Organized groups should contact the Superintendent. Meriwether Lewis Campground, located at milepost (mp) 385.9 in Tennessee has 32 campsites. Camping/picnicking supplies and gas are available four miles west of the Parkway on Tennessee Highway 20 toward Hohenwald. Jeff Busby Campground, located at mp 193.1 has 18 campsites. Rocky Springs Campground, located at mp 54.8, has 22 campsites. Individual sites have tables, grills, and a level tent site. Restrooms and drinking water are provided. No hot water, showers, electrical/sanitary hookups or dumping sites are available. Camp sites cannot be reserved. Stays are maximum 15 days during periods of heavy visitation. Peak seasons are Spring and Fall.
For More Information on this campground please call 1-800-305-7417

FACILITIES

VISITOR CENTER
Location - The only visitor center is located in Tupelo at Parkway milepost 266. Several remote contact stations are located along the parkway.
Closures - The center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except December 25.

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