As you wind your way down the 444-mile stretch, you'll encounter some fantastic campgrounds that are practically calling your name. Picture this: you're cruising through the lush scenery, and your internal GPS signals it's time to park that RV or pitch that tent.

There are 3 campgrounds within the Natchez Trace that are like little havens for tired road warriors, or those looking for an outside hiking, biking, and/or camping adventure. Nestled in nature, yet just off the parkway, the campgrounds are easy to access, and sites are large enough to fit the big RVs.  These campgrounds are primitive camping, and are on a first-come, first-serve basis, so you need to plan your arrivals accordingly.  That said, when I took this trip there were plenty of campsites available at all the campgrounds within this national park. 

Meriwether Lewis Campground:

Nestled in the Tennessee woods, this campground near milepost 385 is a favorite pit stop, and had quite a few campers, though plenty of sites were available. Not only does it boast a historical vibe (named after the Lewis of Lewis and Clark), but it's also a primitive camping paradise. Think crackling campfires, and the soothing sounds of nature.

I met some interesting folks during my overnight stop at this campground. 

There was one lady who lives out of her car with a utility trailer remodeled for camping.  Another guy was car camping with his dogs for the weekend.  Then there was the young couple whose car had broken down near the entrance to the trace in Tennessee. They got an Uber to bring them to the campground, since they were short on money and couldn’t afford a hotel.  They had planned to just sleep on the picnic tables.  It was amazing how the rest of us campers found things they had stored in their campers/cars that they offered to these young people, who arrived with 2 dogs, no vehicle, and no camping gear.  One couple gave them a pop-up tent, another couple invited them to dinner.  I provided them with some pillows and blankets that I let them keep as I was heading out the next morning. 

Rocky Springs Campground

Around milepost 54, you'll find Rocky Springs, a gem with a historic cemetery nearby. It's the sweet spot just before the end of the parkway.  While this campground was open, the facilities were closed and water was turned off, so you need to be sure to have the right supplies. 

Natchez State Park

As you approach the grand finale in Natchez, Mississippi, there is the beautiful Natchez State Park. It's like a camping haven with full amenities – electricity, showers, the whole shebang. A perfect spot to freshen up before exploring the historical charm of Natchez itself.  They were working on renovations when I was there, so be sure to check availability. 



So, as you're cruising along those 444 miles, taking in the picturesque views and soaking up the stories embedded in the pavement, you'll find yourself wondering how this historic trail managed to pack so much goodness into its winding route.

Anyway, let the adventure roll on along those 444 miles, my friend. It's not just a road trip; it's a 444-mile tale waiting to be told!