Oxford, Mississippi: 10 Short Road Trips for Easy Weekend Escapes

on

10 Easy Road Trips From Oxford, Mississippi: Small-Town Adventures Just Beyond Lafayette County

If you love Oxford, Mississippi, but you’re itching to explore a little farther than the Square or the Grove, you’re in luck. Within about an hour’s drive, you’ll find cozy small towns, clear lakes, historic spots, and quiet country roads that feel a world away from campus traffic and game-day crowds. The best part? These day trips all take you out of Lafayette County into nearby counties like Calhoun, Marshall, Panola, Pontotoc, Tate, Union, and Yalobusha. So if you’re wondering what to do near Oxford, Mississippi, this guide is for you. Below are 10 short out-of-county road trips that make perfect weekend adventures.

1. Water Valley, MS (Yalobusha County) – Small-Town Stroll & Coffee Break

Water Valley sits just about 20–25 minutes south of Oxford, but it has its own easy-going rhythm that feels miles away. What to do in Water Valley:
  • Walk Main Street: Pop into local shops, check out vintage finds, and grab a snack from a bakery or café.
  • Explore the art scene: Water Valley has a quietly creative community; you’ll often find local art, murals, and handmade goods.
  • Enjoy a slow lunch: Sit down at a local diner and soak up that classic small-town Mississippi vibe.
On my first visit, I planned to “just look around” for half an hour. Two hours later, I was still chatting with a shop owner about old railroad stories and growing up in the Delta. That’s the kind of place Water Valley is—easy to enter, hard to leave.

2. Sardis Lake & Town of Sardis, MS (Panola County) – Lake Views & Laid-Back Eats

If you’re craving water views and fresh air, Sardis Lake is a classic road trip from Oxford. Head west into Panola County, and in about 30–40 minutes you’ll hit big water and open sky. Things to do near Sardis:
  • Picnic by the water: Pack sandwiches, grab a cooler, and find a shady spot near the shore.
  • Fishing & boating: Bring your gear or a small boat if you have one. The lake is popular for crappie, bass, and catfish.
  • Sunset watching: The colors over the water can be stunning on clear evenings.
  • Grab a bite in Sardis: After the lake, roll into town for a casual meal at a local spot.
If you’re wondering what to do near Oxford on a warm day, Sardis Lake is one of the easiest answers.

3. Batesville, MS (Panola County) – Shopping, Food, and Family-Friendly Fun

Also in Panola County, Batesville is a straightforward, no-fuss road trip destination. It’s a simple drive down Highway 6, usually around 30–35 minutes from Oxford. What to do in Batesville:
  • Browse local shops: You’ll find a mix of boutiques, outdoor stores, and everyday shopping.
  • Sample Southern comfort food: Think fried catfish, barbecue, and big plates that feel like dinner at Grandma’s.
  • Walk around the town square: Stretch your legs, take a few photos, and enjoy the slower pace.
If you need a break from Oxford but still want easy parking, plenty of food options, and a relaxed afternoon, Batesville does the trick.

4. Holly Springs, MS (Marshall County) – History, Architecture & Quiet Streets

Drive about 50–60 minutes north into Marshall County and you’ll reach Holly Springs, a town known for its historic homes and Civil War history. What to explore in Holly Springs:
  • Historic homes: The town is full of beautiful old houses and buildings. Some may be open for tours during special events.
  • Courthouse square: Check out the old courthouse area and nearby shops.
  • Civil War sites: For history buffs, there’s plenty to dig into around town.
Walking down the streets, with tall trees and big front porches, you almost feel like you’ve stepped into a different time. It’s a nice change of pace from busy college-town life.

5. Tishomingo State Park–Style Escape at Wall Doxey State Park, MS (Marshall County)

For an easy nature escape in Marshall County, Wall Doxey State Park is a solid option not far from Holly Springs. From Oxford, you’re looking at roughly a 45–60 minute drive, depending on your route. Why it’s worth the drive:
  • Walking trails: Stretch your legs on simple trails through the woods.
  • Lake views: Relax by the water, bring a lawn chair, and just breathe for a while.
  • Picnic spots: Ideal for a low-cost day trip with family or friends.
If you’re asking, “Where can I find nature near Oxford, Mississippi?” this is one of the easiest answers that doesn’t require a long road trip.

6. Pontotoc, MS (Pontotoc County) – Rail-Trail Rides & Small-Town Vibes

Head east into Pontotoc County for a relaxed day in Pontotoc, about 45 minutes or so from Oxford. What to do in Pontotoc:
  • Trace State Park area: Nearby state park options give you walking and picnicking spots with woods and water.
  • Explore town: Stroll through downtown, visit local shops, and grab a coffee.
  • Bike or walk a rail-trail segment: The area connects to larger trail systems, great for casual rides or walks.
If you like a mix of light outdoor fun and small-town charm, Pontotoc makes an easy day trip from Oxford.

7. New Albany, MS (Union County) – Gateway to the Tanglefoot Trail

In Union County, about 50–60 minutes from Oxford, you’ll find New Albany, a friendly town with a growing reputation for outdoor recreation and a nice downtown. What to do in New Albany:
  • Walk or bike the Tanglefoot Trail: This long, paved rail-trail is perfect for an easy ride or walk. You don’t have to do the whole thing—just pick a comfortable distance and turn around.
  • Explore downtown: Check out shops, grab ice cream, or sit down for a casual meal.
  • Riverside relaxation: The Little Tallahatchie River flows nearby, offering peaceful spots to sit and unwind.
If you’ve been thinking, “I need a simple day trip with a nice walk and good food,” New Albany fits nicely.

8. Calhoun City, MS (Calhoun County) – A Classic Country Town Drive

West of Oxford, in Calhoun County, Calhoun City gives you that “classic country town” feeling. The drive itself—about 45–60 minutes—winds through fields, trees, and stretches of quiet highway. Things to enjoy in Calhoun City:
  • Small-town downtown: Walk the main streets, peek into shops, and talk with locals. People here still wave when you drive by.
  • Local diners: Find a café or restaurant and order something simple—like a burger, plate lunch, or pie.
  • Country scenery: Sometimes the best part of the trip is just pulling off safely on a side road and taking in the view.
This is the kind of road trip where you don’t need a big plan. Just drive, explore, and see where the day leads.

9. Senatobia, MS (Tate County) – Courthouse Square & Comfort Food

Head northwest from Oxford into Tate County and you’ll reach Senatobia, another easy-going Mississippi town that’s great for a relaxed afternoon. Expect about an hour’s drive depending on your route. What to do in Senatobia:
  • Visit the courthouse square: Walk around, check out local businesses, and enjoy that small-town courthouse charm.
  • Grab lunch or dinner: Look for local favorites that serve hearty Southern plates.
  • Take the scenic way back: On your return to Oxford, choose back roads where you can, and enjoy open farmland and rolling hills.
If you like little road trips with no strict schedule—just you, the road, and good food—Senatobia is a solid pick.

10. Coffeeville, MS (Yalobusha County) – Gateway to Grenada Lake Country Roads

Finally, head south-southwest into Yalobusha County and visit Coffeeville. It’s a quiet, low-key town that pairs well with a wider loop toward Grenada Lake and the surrounding countryside. Plan around 45 minutes to an hour from Oxford, depending on your route. Why go to Coffeeville and beyond:
  • Calm downtown streets: Stretch your legs, snap a few photos, and enjoy the stillness.
  • Country drives: Use Coffeeville as a starting point, then continue along rural highways toward lake areas and forested roads.
  • Picnic stops: Pack a simple lunch and stop at a quiet roadside turnout or small park.
If your ideal day trip from Oxford, Mississippi includes long, peaceful drives and simple pleasures, this is one route to put on your list.

Tips for Planning Your Road Trips from Oxford, Mississippi

Before you hit the road, a few quick tips:
  • Check drive times: Most of these spots are within 30–60 minutes of Oxford, but it’s always good to double-check your route.
  • Fuel up: Some stretches between small towns can feel pretty empty. Top off your gas before you go.
  • Call ahead: If there’s a specific restaurant or shop you want to visit, make sure it’s open—hours can change, especially in smaller towns.
  • Pack a cooler: Water, snacks, and maybe a picnic lunch will save you money and give you flexibility.
  • Bring cash: A few places still prefer cash or have card minimums.
These nearby counties—Calhoun, Marshall, Panola, Pontotoc, Tate, Union, and Yalobusha—offer plenty of things to do near Oxford without long drives or big-city stress.

What’s Your Favorite Day Trip from Oxford?

Have you taken any of these short road trips from Oxford, Mississippi? Maybe you’ve got a favorite catfish place in Panola County, a quiet walking trail in Pontotoc, or a hidden photo spot in Yalobusha.
  • Which town surprised you the most?
  • Where do you like to go when you need a quick escape from Lafayette County?
Share your tips, stories, and favorite stops in the comments below. Your ideas might help someone else plan their next weekend adventure. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends, family, or fellow Rebels looking for fun things to do near Oxford. The more we explore these small Mississippi towns, the more we help keep them thriving.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment