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Rocky Springs: A Ghost Town Whispering Tales of the Old Natchez Trace

Discover the haunting beauty of Rocky Springs, a ghost town on the Natchez Trace Parkway, where history and nature intertwine.

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Explore the haunting remains of Rocky Springs, a once-thriving town along the Natchez Trace Parkway. Founded in the late 1700s, this ghost town offers a glimpse into the past with its historic church, cemetery, and remnants of a bygone era. Hike the trails, soak in the serene atmosphere, and imagine life on the Old Trace.

A brief summary to Rocky Springs Trail

  • Natchez Trace Pkwy, Hermanville, Mississippi, 39086, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Bring water, as potable water is not always available at Rocky Springs.
  • Explore the short trail through the old town site to see the church, cemetery, and remaining artifacts.
  • Hike a portion of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail for a longer trek through the surrounding forest.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Rocky Springs is located directly off the Natchez Trace Parkway at milepost 54.8. From either the north or south, follow the Parkway to this milepost. A self-serve visitor center with restrooms and parking is located at the site. Note that the Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic byway with a speed limit of 50 mph, and commercial traffic is prohibited.

  • Walking

    Once you've parked at the Rocky Springs site, the main points of interest, including the church, cemetery, and trailhead, are easily accessible on foot. A short, self-guiding trail leads through the old town site. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.

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Discover more about Rocky Springs Trail

Rocky Springs, located at milepost 54.8 on the Natchez Trace Parkway, is more than just a stop along the road; it's a journey back in time to a once-bustling community that met its demise due to a series of unfortunate events. Established in the late 1700s, Rocky Springs thrived as a vital watering place for travelers along the Natchez Trace, drawing its name from the natural spring and rock outcrop that served as its lifeblood. By 1860, Rocky Springs had grown into a community of over 2,600 residents, supported by the surrounding cotton plantations. The town boasted merchants, physicians, teachers, clergy, and artisans, all contributing to its vibrant economy and social fabric. However, the Civil War, coupled with outbreaks of yellow fever, destructive crop insects, and unsustainable land management practices, led to the town's decline. The final blow came when the namesake spring dried up, leaving the community without a reliable water source. Today, visitors can explore the ghost town, with the Rocky Springs Methodist Church, erected in 1837, standing as the most prominent reminder of the town's existence. Though the church held regular services until 2010, its doors are now closed. A small cemetery adjacent to the church serves as the final resting place for some of the original settlers. A short, self-guiding trail leads through the old town site, revealing remnants like a post office safe and a cistern. Informative placards along the trail recount the story of Rocky Springs' rise and fall, offering insights into the lives of those who once called this place home. Hiking options include a section of the original Natchez Trace and access to the seven-mile Rocky Springs Trail, a segment of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail.

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