Meridian, Mississippi: 10 Short Road Trips for Easy Weekend Getaways

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10 Easy Road Trips from Meridian, Mississippi: Small-Town Adventures Just Beyond Lauderdale County

If you live in or around Meridian, Mississippi, you’ve probably hit most of the usual spots in town. But what about those short, easy road trips just outside Lauderdale County? Today we’re heading into the surrounding counties — Choctaw (AL), Sumter (AL), Clarke (MS), Jasper (MS), Kemper (MS), Neshoba (MS), and Newton (MS). All of these are simple drives from Meridian and perfect for a Saturday or Sunday escape. These are places where you can:
  • Walk through quiet state parks
  • Explore historic small towns
  • Enjoy classic Southern food
  • And still make it home by bedtime
Let’s hit the road.

1. Dunn’s Falls Park – A Hidden Waterfall Retreat (Jasper County, MS)

If you’re craving nature and the sound of rushing water, Dunn’s Falls Park near Enterprise in Jasper County is a must. This peaceful spot centers around a beautiful man-made waterfall on the Chunky River, created in the 1800s when an Irish immigrant moved a grist mill wheel here. Today, it feels like you’ve stepped into a quiet postcard. What you can do:
  • Walk short trails to scenic river overlooks
  • See the historic water wheel and mill structure
  • Cool off by the water on hot summer days
  • Pack a picnic and relax under the trees
It’s not a huge park, which is actually nice. You can explore without feeling rushed, then head back to Meridian the same afternoon. It’s a simple, low-stress day trip from Meridian that feels worlds away.

2. Bienville National Forest – Forest Roads & Quiet Lakes (Newton & Jasper Counties, MS)

If you enjoy just driving with the windows down and no real schedule, head west into parts of Bienville National Forest, which stretches into Newton and Jasper Counties. What you’ll find:
  • Forest service roads perfect for slow, scenic drives
  • Small lakes and ponds where you can fish or just sit
  • Pine woods and hardwoods that feel especially magical in fall
You won’t find big tourist attractions here — and that’s the charm. Bring:
  • A cooler with drinks and snacks
  • A folding chair for lakeside relaxing
  • A simple map or downloaded directions (cell signal can be spotty)
It’s a great way to unplug for a few hours without a long drive from Meridian.

3. Union, Mississippi – Small-Town Stroll & Local Eats (Newton County, MS)

For a laid‑back small-town visit, drive northwest to Union in Newton County. It’s the kind of town where you can park the car, walk around, and just enjoy the slower pace. Ideas for your visit:
  • Wander through town and check out local shops
  • Grab a meat-and-three plate lunch or a big Southern-style burger
  • Talk to locals — they’ll usually tell you what’s good that day
If you’re the type who loves seeing “real” Mississippi beyond the interstates, Union makes a simple short road trip from Meridian. It’s close enough that you can head out after breakfast and be home by late afternoon.

4. Collinsville & Kemper County Backroads – Country Drive & Lake Time (Kemper County, MS)

If you enjoy long drives on two‑lane roads, steer north toward Kemper County. Once you leave the busier areas behind, you’ll quickly find rolling fields, churches, and old homesteads. Ideas:
  • Follow county roads and see where they lead (with GPS as backup)
  • Stop at small convenience stores for snacks and conversation
  • Hit one of the public lakes in the area for fishing or just a waterside break
There’s a simple joy in these backroads drives. You won’t always have a set “attraction,” but that’s the whole point. It’s more about the journey than a single destination.

5. Quitman & Archusa Creek Park – Lakeside Relaxing (Clarke County, MS)

Head south into Clarke County and make your way to Quitman and nearby Archusa Creek Park. This spot is especially nice if you’ve got kids or just want some time by the water. At Archusa Creek Park you can:
  • Walk or drive along the lake
  • Fish from the bank or a small boat
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy shaded tables
  • Watch the sun drop over the water in the evening
It’s an easy, family‑friendly Meridian day trip. The drive is short, the scenery is pretty, and there’s enough space for everyone to spread out and relax.

6. De Soto National Forest Edge – Pine Woods Escape (Clarke County, MS)

Parts of the De Soto National Forest reach into southern Clarke County, and this area is perfect if you’re looking for quiet forest time without driving all the way to the Gulf Coast. What to expect:
  • Miles of pine forest and sandy backroads
  • Opportunities for hiking, bird‑watching, and photography
  • A peaceful break from traffic and noise
Bring:
  • Plenty of water (especially in summer)
  • Bug spray and sunscreen
  • A full gas tank — services can be spread out
If you’ve ever felt like you just need trees and quiet for a few hours, this short trip south from Meridian will reset your mood.

7. Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge – River Views & Wildlife (Choctaw County, AL)

Cross the state line into Choctaw County, Alabama, and head toward the Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge along the Tombigbee River. It’s a bit more of a drive, but still very doable as a day trip from Meridian. Why it’s worth the drive:
  • Scenic views of the Tombigbee River
  • Great bird‑watching, especially in cooler months
  • Chances to spot deer, small wildlife, and plenty of waterfowl
This is a spot where you’ll want:
  • Binoculars or a camera with zoom
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A light jacket if you’re visiting at sunrise or sunset
If you’re into nature, photography, or just slow drives near the water, this Alabama road trip from Meridian will hit the spot.

8. Livingston, Alabama – Historic College Town Charm (Sumter County, AL)

In Sumter County, Alabama, the small town of Livingston has a cozy feel thanks in part to the University of West Alabama. It’s a nice blend of campus energy and historic Southern charm. What to do:
  • Walk around the downtown square and historic buildings
  • Drive through the university campus
  • Grab a bite at a local café or diner
If you enjoy warm, walkable college towns, Livingston makes a fun and easy change of pace from Meridian. It has just enough to fill an afternoon without feeling overwhelming.

9. York, Alabama – Murals, Small-Town Streets & Quiet Cafés (Sumter County, AL)

Also in Sumter County, the town of York has a growing arts presence, with murals and historic storefronts that make it a great spot for a simple, slow day. Things to enjoy:
  • Hunt for public art and colorful murals
  • Photograph historic buildings and rustic signs
  • Chat with locals at a small café or store
York is perfect if you like taking “backroads America” style photos or just exploring towns most folks fly past on the highway.

10. Neshoba County Fairgrounds Area – Country Roads & Seasonal Fun (Neshoba County, MS)

Neshoba County is famous for the Neshoba County Fair, often called “Mississippi’s Giant House Party.” Even when the fair isn’t in full swing, the surrounding area still makes for an interesting drive. Depending on the time of year, you can:
  • Drive by the colorful fair cabins (when accessible)
  • Explore rural roads and rolling farmland
  • Visit nearby local eateries in the county
If you time your trip with fair season, you’ll find:
  • Live music
  • Food stands with all the fair favorites
  • Horse races and a one‑of‑a‑kind Mississippi atmosphere
It’s one of the most iconic cultural experiences you can reach on a short drive from Meridian.

Tips for Planning Your Meridian-Area Road Trips

To make the most of these short road trips from Meridian, MS:
  • Check hours: Parks and small-town businesses may have limited or seasonal hours.
  • Carry cash: Some small places don’t take cards, especially food stands.
  • Fuel up first: Gas stations can be spread out once you leave major highways.
  • Download maps: Cell service can be weak in forested and rural areas.
Think of these trips as “mini‑vacations” — no packing for days, no airports, just a tank of gas and a few hours to breathe.

What’s Your Favorite Road Trip from Meridian?

Have you visited any of these spots around Meridian in Clarke, Jasper, Kemper, Neshoba, Newton, Choctaw (AL), or Sumter (AL)? Did I miss your favorite fishing hole, diner, or backroad drive? I’d love to hear from you.
  • Drop a comment with your favorite out‑of‑county day trip.
  • Share your best “hidden gem” within a 1–2 hour drive of Meridian.
  • Tell us which place you’re planning to check out next.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family who are looking for easy things to do near Meridian, Mississippi. A simple share can help more people discover these small‑town treasures just beyond Lauderdale County.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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