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JP Coleman State Park RV & Campground Guide

Tennessee

On the banks of the Tennessee River and Pickwick Lake, J.P. Coleman State Park boasts spectacular lakefront views, a cascading 50-ft waterfall, and acres of sparkling waters just waiting to be explored. 

Named for the 52nd governor of Mississippi, James P. Coleman, the park is located near the town of Iuka, which was built on the site of a Chickasaw Indian village. Iuka retains many connections to its Native American past, as well as its roots in the railroad industry, which arrived in Iuka in 1857. As well, the American Civil War devastated the area and claimed the lives of thousands during the Battle of Iuka in 1862. It wasn’t until the construction of Pickwick Landing Dam and the reservoir waters of Pickwick Lake in the 1930s that the area experienced economic renewal and increased tourism.

Today, visitors come to JP Coleman State Park to participate in water sports of all types on Pickwick Lake: sailing, boating, water skiing, swimming, and fishing. There are also acres of untamed wilderness and forested hills along the Tennessee River where visitors can spot shorebirds and other wildlife peeking through the trees or wading along the shoreline. Visitors can also check out the swimming pool, play on the miniature golf course, or join in on the park’s annual events like fishing tournaments and Halloween festivities.

If you’re looking for a secluded park with plentiful water sports and outdoor activities, then JP Coleman State Park is the perfect spot for your next trip. Read further for what to do in and around the park as you plan your trip.

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Weather
Spring 45-71 F
Summer 64-88 F
Fall 46-73 F
Winter 28-51 F
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RV Resorts & Campsites in JP Coleman State Park

Destination? Check. Next? Accommodations. There are many different places you could stay during your trip to JP Coleman State Park — hotels, motels, cabins, tents — but only one option lets you stay close to the park, immersed in nature, without giving up amenities and creature comforts like A/C, kitchen appliances, and hot showers: RVs.

If you’re interested, but don’t own an RV, that’s not a problem. RVshare makes it easy to rent an RV near your home or travel destination like in Corinth and Florence. Near JP Coleman State Park, there are several RV campgrounds including:

JP Coleman State Park Campground

Soak up picturesque views of Pickwick Lake and forested hillsides by staying in any of the park’s 69 RV campsites. Plus, all sites have full hookups! Play all day on the lake, swim in the pool, or simply enjoy the beauty around you — all within minutes of your campsite. Rates are $24 per night.

  • Water hookup: Yes

  • Electrical hookup: Yes

  • Sewer hookup: Yes

  • Wifi: No

  • Pet friendly: Yes 

  • Other amenities: Bathhouses, restrooms, grills, laundromat, hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, boating, pool, playground, boat ramp, marina, dumping station

Goat Island Campground

In nearby Luka, this serene campground features 86 campsites with full hookups on the banks of Pickwick Lake. Meet the friendly four-legged inhabitants of Goat Island, fish for crappie and catfish in the lake, or watch for migratory birds and other wildlife. Rates are $24-45 per night.

  • Water hookup: Yes

  • Electrical hookup: Yes

  • Sewer hookup: Yes

  • Wifi: Yes

  • Pet friendly: Yes 

  • Other amenities: Restrooms, grills, beachfront, fishing, boating, swimming, wildlife watching, boat launch, dumping station

RV Rentals Near JP Coleman State Park

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What to Do at
JP Coleman State Park

Inside JP Coleman State Park

JP Coleman State Park is located on the banks of Pickwick Lake, a majestic lake that spans across 47,500 acres and three states. Many visitors come to the park to go swimming, fishing, waterskiing, and boating on the lake, as well as other activities like playing miniature golf and exploring the park’s forested hillsides. From May to October, the park also hosts regular events like fishing tournaments, Easter egg hunts, and Halloween festivities.  

Here are more details on the park’s most popular activities:

Water Sports - Renowned for its sparkling blue waters and gorgeous scenery, ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Pickwick Lake offers all types of water sports including fishing, boating, and sailing. Launch your boat at the park’s boat ramp to cruise around the lake or practice your water skiing techniques. Be sure to check out Cooper Falls, a 50-feet waterfall near the shoreline where you can anchor and swim. Pickwick Lake is also home to many fish like catfish, crappie, and bass, making it an ideal spot for fishers of all ages — just purchase a fishing license at the park office beforehand!

Swimming - Cool off by taking a dip park’s swimming pool. There’s also a kiddy pool where younger children can splash around. There are no lifeguards on duty, so be sure to swim with a buddy! The pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

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How to Get to
JP Coleman State Park

JP Coleman State Park is located 10 miles north of Iuka off MS-25. 

From MS-25, turn onto County Road 989 and follow County Road 989. Turn right onto County Road 321 and continue one mile to enter the park.

Address : 613 County Road 321, Iuka, MS 38852

Entering JP Coleman State Park

Admission is $4 per vehicle.

Ready to set sail on Pickwick Lake or camp along its shores? Then plan your trip to JP Coleman State Park! Tag us on social media or send your photos to [email protected] for a chance to be featured on our blog or social media. Happy (RV) camping!

Frequently Asked Questions About JP Coleman State Park

What is the best time of year to visit JP Coleman State Park?

Fall is the best time of year to visit JP Coleman State Park. The hot, humid temperatures of summer have subsided into pleasantly mild weather. The water is still warm enough for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

What is the climate of JP Coleman State Park?

The park is located in the northeast corner of Mississippi, so the summertime climate is hot and humid. Spring and fall bring mild weather, although hurricane season can bring heavy rains in the fall. Winter brings colder temperatures.

What kind of wildlife can be found in JP Coleman State Park?

JP Coleman State Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife. White-tailed deer, foxes, wild boar, and raccoons are among the many animals roaming the forests. The various rivers and streams have trout, bass, catfish, and more.

Are there designated RV camping spots in JP Coleman State Park?

JP Coleman State Park offers 69 designated RV campsites. These sites vary in size but offer access to bathrooms, laundry, a clubhouse, and a swimming pool. There are also cabins, townhouses, and a motel for any additional needs.

Do you have to reserve a camping spot at JP Coleman State Park and what is the cost?

Reservations aren't required to stay in the park, but they're highly recommended. Reservations can be made online or by calling the campground. Fees for camping spots range from $25 to $28 per night.