In Tate County, nature around Arkabutla Lake meets a long local history. The lake is in northern Mississippi, in Tate and DeSoto counties. The Tate County Courthouse and Senatobia’s history offer additional points of interest if you’d like to include historic sites in your travel plans.
Arkabutla Lake: Water Levels and Places to Visit
The Visitor Information Center at Arkabutla Lake is open weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You can get brochures, regulations, camping information, and maps of the surrounding area, among other resources. Check the opening hours before you go so you can plan your visit accordingly.
As of September 5, 2026, the lake had been at significantly lower water levels for some time, affecting boat access and water-based activities. As of that date, many boat ramps were closed. Hwy. 51 Landing was the only open ramp. If you’re planning a boat trip, check the current water level and ramp status before setting out.
The Arkabutla Lake Dam project is on the Coldwater River and offers opportunities for sailing. Water access and conditions can change. The Senatobia Wetlands project has information panels and an area for observing wildlife and waterfowl; check conditions before your visit.
Nature Trails for Different Interests
As of September 5, 2026, the Coldwater River Nature Trail System was closed until further notice. It includes two hiking trails, measuring 3 and 5 miles, respectively, as well as the self-guided Big Oak Nature Trail. The Swinging Bridge Nature Trail is also closed until further notice. One of its features is an old section of the Coldwater River that predates construction of the dam.
Other trail descriptions vary in length and intended use. The 4.5-mile Sunfish Bay Trail is designed for horseback riding. The Bayou Point Single-Track Mountain Bike Trail is for mountain bikes only; hiking and horseback riding are not allowed. As of September 5, 2026, the completed 2.2-mile beginner loop, Backwater Loop, was also open for use. Check the current trail status before your visit.
Architecture and History at the Courthouse
The Tate County Courthouse is the oldest continuously operating courthouse in Mississippi. Its cornerstone was laid on June 24, 1875, and it began operating in 1876. The building is predominantly in the High Victorian Romanesque Revival architectural style. It was designated a Mississippi Landmark in 1984 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.
In 2026, new historical exhibits were fully installed in the courthouse and can be visited on a self-guided tour. The building is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; however, access to individual exhibits and the courtroom may be restricted. If you’d like to see specific areas, confirm they’re accessible before your visit.
Senatobia’s Development and Regional Location
Tate County is about 30 minutes south of Memphis, Tennessee; Senatobia is on Interstate 55. The town’s history dates back to its founding in 1834. It was established on two parcels of land purchased from the Chickasaw Nation for US$1.25 per acre. The Tennessee and Mississippi Railroad reached Senatobia in 1856; the town then developed into a railroad hub and railway station town.
Travel planning involves different considerations: at the lake, water levels and ramp status are key, while at the courthouse, opening hours and access to individual areas matter. This lets you decide how to balance nature and history without losing sight of the visitor conditions noted above.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Senatobia, Copiah County, Stone County, Hinds, Lincoln County, Warren, Jackson County, Quitman County.
For the main travel overview: Mississippi.
