Tishomingo State Park is one of Mississippi’s most celebrated outdoor destinations, drawing thousands of visitors each year to its swinging bridge, rocky trails, and lush canyons. But nestled quietly beyond the popular paths lies a lesser-known treasure—the old CCC rock quarry, a place steeped in history and natural beauty.
A Glimpse Into the Past
In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was formed as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal. Young men were put to work building infrastructure, conserving forests, and developing national and state parks. Tishomingo State Park was one of those projects, and the CCC workers quarried stone from this very site to build much of what visitors enjoy today—cabins, bridges, trails, and the park’s rustic lodge.
Today, what remains of the quarry is a dramatic rock bowl with sheer stone walls and a pool of rain-fed water that shimmers in the sunlight. It’s a peaceful, almost hidden space that feels far removed from the busier sections of the park.
Where to Find It
The quarry isn’t marked on the main park maps, which makes it feel all the more secretive. To get there, hikers typically start near Cabin 6 and follow an unmarked trail that leads through the woods behind the cabins. It’s not far from the main path, but the trail can be rough in spots—so wear sturdy shoes and bring a walking stick if you have one.
Locals often refer to it simply as “the old quarry,” and while swimming is prohibited for safety reasons, it’s a favorite spot for photographers, sketch artists, and those seeking a quiet place to reflect or explore.
Why It’s Worth the Visit
What makes the CCC quarry such a hidden gem isn’t just its visual appeal—it’s the connection to the park’s origin story. Standing there among the stone walls, you can almost hear the clink of hammers and see the legacy left behind by young men who shaped this land during a pivotal moment in American history.
It’s also a reminder that sometimes the most memorable places are the ones you have to seek out for yourself.
Know Before You Go:
- The trail is unofficial and not maintained—explore at your own risk.
- Always let someone know where you’re going before hiking off the main paths.
- Take only photos—leave nature undisturbed for the next explorer.