Plan Your Visit

How do I visit?

  • The Parkway begins in Natchez, MS, passes through Jackson, MS and Tupelo, MS, and ends just south of Nashville, TN. You can start at either end, in the middle, or at one of the many entry points along the way. Visit Directions for information about getting on and off the Parkway.
  • A short afternoon drive or a walk on a nature trail will provide a taste of what is available to explore along the 444 miles of the Parkway.
  • A three day journey from end to end will allow time to sample a variety of the nature and history along the way.
  • Five days will provide time to explore your favorite areas in depth.
  • Experienced road bicyclists can spend days enjoying 444-miles of scenic byway. Visit Bicycling to learn more.
  • Hikers of all abilities can explore nature on nearly 100 trails ranging from short and paved to rustic trails 27 miles one way. Visit Trails to learn more.
  • Check out the Top Ten Insider Tips for Planning Your Visit.

What to expect

  • By design, there are no food, gas, or lodging services "on" the Parkway. Hidden beyond the trees, in the many communities along the Parkway's 444-mile length, there is everything that you need and many local venues worth exploring.
  • The Parkway maintains restrooms along the way. There is usually no more than 50 miles (an hour of driving) between rest stops.
  • Cell phone coverage can be spotty. Use the NPS app and save the Natchez Trace Parkway section of the app to your phone.
  • The Parkway road is two lane and only 11 feet wide with no shoulder.
  • Stopping points include frequent pullouts with interpretive signs about history and nature. Visit Places to Go for a comprehensive list of our stops.

We highly recommend that you download the free National Park Service app before your visit. You will have virtual access to all National Parks and the ability to download parks for offline use.

 

Basic Information

The Parkway roadway is open 24 hours a day, weather permitting. Please avoid the Parkway during bad weather.

Visit Basic Information for more details on operating hours, directions, and visitor centers.
 

Oops...not open?

Sometimes the extraordinary complexity of the Parkway forces us to close buildings, exhibits, or make partial road closures. Visit Road and Site Status for the most up-to-date information about closures.
 

Plan Ahead

Water drips from a dark natural arch into a muddy stream.
Top Ten Ranger Tips for Your Trip

Planning Tips from the Insiders

Plan your trip using tips from the rangers who work at the Natchez Trace Parkway.

A simple map of the Natchez Trace Parkway

Maps

Need directions? Find maps of the Parkway here.

An RV parked at the Cypress Swamp site.
Driving Around in My RV

Recreational Vehicles

Many people travel the Parkway in their RVs. Know the limitations of your rig and the park before you head out.

A ranger shows a mounted owl to a junior ranger.
Check out our events calendar

Attend a Program

We have regular programs every weekend and special programs offered occasionally. Check our calendar to see upcoming events!

In a forest, a tent, picnic table, and a man with a child.
Camping

Three Campgrounds on the Natchez Trace

There are three campgrounds on the Parkway, located at mileposts 54.8, 193.1, and 385.9. No reservations required.

A wide deep trail in a forest.
Hit the Trails!

Short Walks or Long Hikes on the Parkway

Stretch your legs on short historic walks, try out a paved trail, or walk in the depths of Potkopinu

A black tan and cream hound wearing a shield tag.
Pets and BARK Ranger

Pets are Welcome

Pets on a leash are welcome in outdoor areas. Dogs (and cats that think they are dogs) are welcome to become BARK Rangers.

A cabin on a tree lined hill.
Experience History

Imagine You were There Then

10,000 years of history is a lot to choose from. Pick your favorite places.

A book cover with a painting of a horse and rider in front of a cabin.
Be a Junior Ranger!

Kids of All Ages can be Junior Rangers

Our Junior Ranger program is designed for children 6-13, but anyone who is has the curiosity of a child can participate.

Storm clouds forming over the Natchez Trace Parkway
WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?

Weather & Emergency Information

Inclement weather can come in many forms. Be prepared. This page will provide emergency information for many types of weather.

Silhouetted trees with a pink sunset sky
Other Parks and Towns Nearby

Camp Out or Eat In Towns

State and federal parks often have hook ups and electricity. Local visitor centers provide information about restaurants and hotels.

A large RV parked in the trees at a campsite.
Want a Bite to Eat or Sleep in Town?

Our Partner's Website Covers Trace Towns

Hundreds of towns are just off the Parkway. You can sleep at 5 star hotels or hang out at the local BBQ place, and everything in between.

Last updated: June 12, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2680 Natchez Trace Parkway
Tupelo, MS 38804

Phone:

662 680-4027
The Parkway Visitor Center near Tupelo, MS, is open 9am-4:30pm seven days a week. The visitor center is closed Thanksgiving, December 25th and January 1st.

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