Percy Quin State Park

Percy Quin State Park sits along the shores of Lake Tangipahoa in the pine hills of southwest Mississippi, about six miles south of McComb. The park covers roughly 1,700 acres and draws visitors with a combination of fishing, golf, cabin rentals, tent and RV camping, and a long nature trail through mature forest. It is one of the more fully developed state parks in Mississippi, making it a practical destination for families and anglers who want amenities alongside outdoor recreation.

Fishing and Boating on Lake Tangipahoa

The 490-acre Lake Tangipahoa is the centerpiece of the park and the main reason most visitors make the drive out here. The lake supports populations of largemouth bass, bream, crappie, and catfish, and it sees consistent fishing pressure year-round. A fishing pier and boat ramp are available on site, and the park also offers a marina and boat launch for those who want to get out on the water. Anglers should have the required Mississippi fishing license and any required state park/lake fishing permit, except on designated free fishing days. The lake is calm enough for casual boating, but visitors should be aware of wildlife activity before entering the water.

Golf at the Percy Quin Course

The 18-hole golf course here is one of the park’s most distinctive features and sets it apart from most other Mississippi state parks. The course winds through pine and hardwood forest with fairways that are well maintained through the warmer months. It is open to the public, and equipment rentals are available. Tee times can be filled quickly on weekends, so calling ahead is a good idea. The course adds a recreational dimension that appeals to visitors who want more than a camping or fishing trip.

Cabins, Camping, and Overnight Stays

Percy Quin offers a range of lodging options. Fully equipped rental cabins are available along the lakeshore and sleep multiple people, making them a popular choice for family getaways or fishing groups. The campground has RV sites with electrical and water hookups as well as tent sites. Campers have access to restrooms and shower facilities. The park tends to fill up during summer weekends and holidays, so reservations through the MDWFP reservation system are strongly recommended. RV site camping rates currently start at $25 per night, with rates varying by site type and date; primitive tent camping is listed separately at $17-$45, and cabin pricing varies by unit and season.

The 6.8-Mile Nature Trail

The park’s nature trail covers 6.8 miles through mixed pine and hardwood forest, looping away from the lake and campground into quieter sections of the property. The terrain is relatively gentle by Mississippi standards, with some rolling topography through the pines. The trail is not heavily trafficked compared to the lake and golf facilities, so hikers often have it largely to themselves. Mornings in cooler months are the best time to walk it, both for wildlife sightings and for avoiding heat. Trail shoes are sufficient for most of the route, though low spots can hold mud after rain.

Pet Policy

Pets are allowed in designated areas only, must be restrained on a leash no longer than six feet, and owners must clean up after them. Pets are not allowed in lodging facilities or on the grounds of lodging facilities, and pets are not allowed in Mississippi government buildings. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals in all areas of the park. Given the presence of wildlife near the lake and along trails, keeping pets close and under control is particularly important here.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Alligators may occur in southern Mississippi waters; visitors should obey posted warnings, avoid approaching or feeding any alligator, and check with park staff for current lake-specific guidance. Do not approach any alligator on the bank or in the water, do not feed them, and keep children and pets away from the water’s edge, especially in warmer months when alligators are most active. Visitors should check with park staff and obey posted swimming and wildlife warnings before entering the water.

Venomous snakes, including cottonmouth and copperhead, are common in this part of Mississippi and are frequently encountered near lake shores and along wooded trails. Cottonmouths in particular favor wet and marshy edges. Watch where you step and where you place your hands, especially around rocks, logs, and root tangles on the nature trail. Closed-toe shoes are appropriate for all trail and shoreline walking.

Fire ants are widespread throughout the park’s grassy and picnic areas. Their mounds can be difficult to spot until you are standing close to one. Check the ground before setting down chairs, blankets, or gear, and instruct children not to touch any mound they find. Fire ant stings are painful and can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Practical Information

Percy Quin State Park is located at 2036 Percy Quin Drive, McComb, Mississippi, approximately six miles south of McComb, reached from I-55 Exit 13 via Airport Fernwood Road and Hwy 48. The coordinates are approximately 31.1868, -90.5204. A day use entry fee applies for visitors not staying overnight. RV site camping rates currently start at $25 per night, with rates varying by site type and date; primitive tent camping is listed separately at $17-$45, and cabin rates vary. Current fees and cabin pricing can be confirmed through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website. The park is open year-round, though the golf course and some facilities may have reduced hours in winter. Summer is the busiest season. Reservations for cabins and campsites can be made through the MDWFP online system.