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Celebrate America's 250 Years of Freedom at Mississippi State Parks

In 2026, Mississippi State Parks is celebrating America’s 250th birthday with a Fourth of July weekend unlike any other. Join us July 3rd & 4th for a statewide celebration filled with live music, fireworks over the water, cookouts, outdoor recreation, and red-white-and-blue traditions across Mississippi’s most scenic parks.

From lakeside festivals to family-friendly carnivals and outdoor adventures, Mississippi State Parks is the place to be for the biggest celebration of the summer.

Plan Your Stay
Guests are encouraged to book cabins and campsites early to secure their spot for the biggest celebration of the summer. Reservations are open now!

Seven Parks. Seven Themes. You Decide.

Each participating park will host its own unique Fourth of July experience, giving visitors the freedom to choose the celebration that fits their style. Celebrations will begin on Friday, July 3rd, and continue through Saturday, July 4th!

Featured Events

Roosevelt State Park (Morton) - Freedom in Full Bloom with an America 250 Celebration Festival

Celebrate America's 250th birthday with a full-scale festival at Roosevelt State Park. Enjoy live entertainment, local vendors, family-friendly activities, and patriotic festivities set against the beauty of the lake. 

For a detailed schedule, information, and more, click here!

Admission Pricing (Per Person) 
• Friday: $5.00
• Saturday: $5.00
• Children 5 and younger: FREE

Paul B. Johnson State Park (Hattiesburg) - Celebrate America 250 on the Water with Kayaks and Paddles

Take to the water at Paul B. Johnson State Park for a paddling experience that honors 250 years of American independence. Kayak and paddle through scenic waterways while celebrating the outdoor traditions that have shaped generations. This event will blend adventure, history, and the simple joy of being on the water. 

For a detailed schedule, information, and more, click here!

Admission Pricing (Per Person) 
• Friday: $5.00
• Saturday: $5.00
• Children 5 and younger: FREE

Percy Quin State Park (McComb) - Classic Carnival celebrating America 250

Step right into the classic way to celebrate America at Percy Quin State Park's America 250 carnival. Experience rides, games, food, and festive lights in a celebration that captures the spirit of summer and the excitement of independence. Come out and enjoy this family-friendly carnival experience and make memories that will last. 

For a detailed schedule, information, and more, click here!

Admission Pricing (Per Person) 
• Friday: $5.00 (Carnival wristband available separately: $15)
• Saturday: $5.00 (Carnival wristband available separately: $15)
• Children 5 and under: FREE park admission. (Carnival wristband available separately: $15)

Buccaneer State Park (Waveland) - Celebrate America 250 with a Splash! Pool Party Style.

Cool off and celebrate at Buccaneer State Park with a patriotic poolside party for America's 250th. Enjoy music, water fun, and summer vibes in a festive red, white, and blue atmosphere. This event is all about carefree celebration, community, and making summer memories. 

For a detailed schedule, information, and more, click here!

Admission Pricing (Per Person) 
• Friday: $2.00 park entry + water park fee ($21 for 48" tall and over - $15 for under 48" tall)
• Saturday: $2.00 park entry + water park fee
• Children 5 and under: FREE park admission (Water park fee charged separately)

Clarkco State Park (Quitman) - Cast, Pedal, Celebrate America 250 Outdoors

Celebrate America 250 surrounded by nature at Clarkco State Park during our A250 Independence Celebration! From fishing and hiking to parades, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks show over the lake—this two-day event is packed with fun for the whole family.

Bring your lawn chairs, your crew, and your patriotic spirit—this is one summer tradition you don’t want to miss!

For a detailed schedule, information, and more, click here!

Admission Pricing (Per Person) 
• Friday: FREE
• Saturday: $5.00
• Children 5 and under: FREE

Trace State Park (Belden) - Celebrating America 250 with Disc Golf and Trails

Explore the natural beauty of Trace State Park through trails and disc golf as part of America's 250th celebration. This event invites visitors to reflect on the paths that shaped our nation while enjoying outdoor recreation in a peaceful, scenic setting. Walk, throw, explore, and celebrate freedom along the way. 

For a detailed schedule, information, and more, click here!

Admission Pricing (Per Person) 
• Friday: $2.00 per person (If participating in the Disc Golf Tournament, your admission fee is included within the Tournament Registration Fee)
• Saturday: FREE 

John W. Kyle State Park (Sardis) - Live Concert celebrating America 250

Experience the power of music at John W. Kyle State Park during a live concert celebrating America's 250th anniversary. From uplifting anthems to crowd-favorite hits, this concert weekend brings people together to honor our shared heritage through sound, rhythm, and community spirit. 

For a detailed schedule, information, and more, click here!

Admission Pricing (Per Person) 
• Friday: $2.00
• Saturday: $5.00
• Children 5 and under: FREE

Whether you want music by the water, a high-energy poolside celebration, or a weekend packed with outdoor recreation, there’s a Fourth of July experience waiting for you. 

In addition to these featured events, all Mississippi State Parks will be hosting smaller-scale, relaxed America 250 celebrations, making it easy to join in wherever you are.

Please note: Some cabins at Percy Quin State Park are currently undergoing exciting renovations. Reopening dates and holiday reservation availability will be announced as updates become available.

Vendor Application
Interested in being a vendor at our State Parks' America 250 celebration? Please print the vendor application form, fill it out completely, and bring the completed form to the park where you wish to participate.
 
Did you find an A250 key tag while hunting eggs at a State Park this year? Here's how to redeem!

You’ve unlocked a special reward: free park admission for one day during the July 3–4, 2026 celebrations. This pass is valid for up to four people, making it the perfect way to enjoy the holiday with family or friends.

To redeem, simply present your A250 key tag to park staff on the day of your visit. The tag must be surrendered at entry to receive admission.

**Please Note: This reward is valid for park admission only to the State Park of your choice. All additional fee-based activities and amenities will be available at regular prices for recipients.