Grenada County can be explored through a variety of themes: wetlands and river courses sit alongside blues and architectural history. To help with your planning, decide early which of these aspects of the region interests you most. Nature destinations offer a range of landscapes and activities; Grenada’s history spans everything from railroads and architecture to the civil rights movement.
Wetlands and Grenada Lake
The Malmaison Wildlife Management Area covers 9,483 acres and lies at the intersection of the Delta and hill country in Grenada County. State Highway 7 divides the area. The Yalobusha River flows through it; its landscapes include oxbow lakes, cypress-tupelo swamps, wet depressions, and seasonal wetlands. Those interested in river landscapes and wetlands will find several distinct landscape features in this large protected area.
Grenada Lake lies on the Yalobusha and Skuna rivers and is the largest freshwater lake in the state of Mississippi. The Grenada Lake Visitor Center provides information about recreational facilities at the lake and local attractions. A theater and exhibits share the history and natural resources of the lake. An overlook offers panoramic views of 36,000-acre Grenada Lake. If visiting the center is important to your plans, check the latest details in advance.
Trails and Activities
The trails vary in both length and route. The Haserway Wetland Management Area Nature Trail is 1.5 miles long and runs along Toe Road behind Grenada Dam. The Lost Bluff Trail is two miles long and includes steep, winding sections and steps. The Old River Run Nature Trail follows the old and new courses of the Yalobusha River. When choosing a trail, you can therefore consider not only its length but also the type of route described.
Other outdoor activities are also available: the Dam Area Central Recreation Area below Grenada Dam includes a disc golf course. The Lee Tartt Nature Preserve offers opportunities for kayaking. Its 300-acre wetland includes oxbow lakes, bottomland forest, and seasonal pools. Another option is Dogwoods Golf Course, which was built into the forest with only the necessary clearing. These offerings suit different interests, from river and wetland landscapes to disc golf and golf.
Blues, Architecture and Local History
The blues that originated in Grenada County was an influential force in popular music for a long time. Grenada’s history also includes notable buildings and institutions. The original Grenada Bank building now houses the Grenada History Museum. The bank was the first in Mississippi to develop a system of branch locations. The Historical Museum/Coca-Cola Display features items from Grenada’s early days and houses a large collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia.
Architecture also offers specific themes for a cultural visit. The Illinois Central Depot is the only unaltered surviving building associated with Grenada’s railroad history. The Manager's House at Glenwild Plantation is the only surviving residence associated with the plantation and an example of the Colonial Revival style, which is unusual for Grenada. Grenada’s Old Post Office showcases the Georgian Revival style, also relatively unusual there. The Odd Fellows / Confederate Cemetery was established around 1840 and is Grenada’s oldest cemetery. Founded in 1868, Belle Flower Missionary Baptist Church served as a center for local and national organizers during the civil rights movement. If you plan to visit an interior or have a specific date in mind, check visiting options in advance.
Getting There and Planning Your Stay
To get to Grenada Lake from Memphis, take I-55 south to Grenada, then head east on MS 8. Road conditions can change, so check them before you travel. When planning your stay, you can first decide whether nature, trails, or culture will be your main focus.
Discover more destinations: Grenada, Clay, Smith County, Forrest County, Marshall, Pearl River County, Lincoln County, Pontotoc County.
For the overview of the region: Mississippi.
