Bathhouse, Pool & Waterslide

For Mississippians looking for a complete outdoor experience that combines natural beauty with family-friendly amenities, Roosevelt State Park in Morton stands out as a premier destination. More than just a simple campground, this expansive state park is a hub of recreation and relaxation, offering everything from serene lake views to exhilarating waterslides. It’s a place where the tranquility of the Bienville National Forest meets the excitement of a full-service recreational park, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway or an extended family vacation.

Situated conveniently between Jackson and Meridian, Roosevelt State Park is easily accessible for residents across Mississippi. Its diverse offerings cater to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, whether you prefer the comfort of an RV with full hookups, the rustic charm of tent camping, or the cozy convenience of a cabin. The park's commitment to providing a variety of activities ensures that every member of the family, from avid anglers to adventurous swimmers, finds something to love.

At the heart of Roosevelt State Park's appeal is its ability to blend natural beauty with modern amenities. The picturesque Shadow Lake provides a focal point for many activities, while recent renovations to the campsites and facilities underscore the park's dedication to an enhanced visitor experience. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Roosevelt State Park, delving into its strategic location, the extensive services and facilities it offers (including the popular Bathhouse, Pool & Waterslide area), and why it remains a cherished destination for locals throughout Mississippi.

Roosevelt State Park is conveniently located at 2149 MS-13, Morton, MS 39117, USA. This address places it strategically in Scott County, between Mississippi's capital city, Jackson, and the city of Meridian. Its proximity to Interstate 20 (I-20) makes it exceptionally accessible for travelers and locals alike.

For Mississippians, reaching the park is straightforward. From I-20, travelers can take Exit 77 (Highway 13 in Morton). If traveling eastbound towards Meridian, one would turn left onto Highway 13 North, and the park entrance is approximately half a mile on the left. If traveling westbound towards Jackson, one would turn right onto Highway 13 North, and the park is also about half a mile on the left. This direct access from a major interstate highway is a significant advantage, particularly for those towing RVs or trailers, ensuring minimal navigation challenges and quick entry to the park.

The park's location also offers the benefit of being adjacent to the vast Bienville National Forest. While the immediate park area provides extensive amenities, the surrounding national forest offers additional opportunities for wilderness exploration. The nearest town, Morton, provides basic services such as gas, groceries, and local eateries for any last-minute needs before entering the park. This blend of easy highway access and a natural, rural setting makes Roosevelt State Park an ideal getaway for residents from all corners of Mississippi, allowing them to immerse themselves in nature without feeling isolated.

Roosevelt State Park is a full-service park offering a wide array of amenities and services designed to cater to various types of visitors and ensure a comfortable stay. Key services include:

• Developed Camping (RV & Tent Sites): The park offers 110 campsites for RV camping across two main campgrounds (R.O. Hannah and CCC). All sites are equipped with full hookups (50-amp, 30-amp, and 20-amp electricity, sewer, and water), picnic tables, and grills. Many sites feature lake views or waterfront access, and roads and pads are paved. Tent camping areas are also available.
• Bathhouses with Hot Showers: Well-maintained bathhouses with hot showers are centrally located within the campgrounds, providing essential comforts. Recent renovations have significantly updated these facilities.
• Shadow Lake Splash Zone: This popular seasonal feature includes a 2,600-square-foot swimming pool overlooking Shadow Lake and a water slide with five twisting turns, beginning at a height of 36 feet. Concessions, restrooms, and changing facilities are available. (Note: Separate entry fees apply for the pool and waterslide.)
• Vacation Cabins: Roosevelt State Park features 15 furnished cabins with beautiful views of Shadow Lake. These cabins are equipped with queen-size beds, linens, TVs, basic kitchen equipment, air conditioning, heating, and screened-in porches.
• Lakefront Motels: 20 motel rooms are available, located near the Alfreda-Harris Lodge, each with lake views, queen beds, TVs, and kitchenettes.
• Visitor Center: A central visitor center provides information, assistance, and typically houses interpretive displays.
• Banquet Hall & Meeting Rooms: Facilities are available for events, conferences, and gatherings.
• Performing Arts & Media Center: A venue for various programs and presentations.
• Picnic Areas & Pavilions: Numerous day-use picnic areas with tables and grills, as well as reservable picnic pavilions, are available for day visitors and groups.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are located within the park for children.
• Camp Store: A convenient on-site store for purchasing essentials, snacks, and souvenirs.
• Kayak Rentals: Kayaks are available for rent, providing a great way to explore Shadow Lake.
• Boat Launch Ramps & Marina: Two boat launch ramps provide access to the 130-acre Shadow Lake (electric motors only), and a marina offers additional services.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A central dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
• Wi-Fi: Connectivity is available in certain areas, particularly near the main facilities.
• Pet-Friendly: The campgrounds are generally pet-friendly, allowing pets on leash (but not in government buildings like cabins/motels).

Roosevelt State Park offers a multitude of features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional destination for outdoor recreation in Mississippi:

• Shadow Lake Splash Zone: The flagship attraction for many families, this area with its large swimming pool and a thrilling 36-foot water slide provides hours of aquatic fun, especially during the summer.
• Diverse Accommodations: The park caters to every preference, from spacious full-hookup RV sites (many with lake views and paved pads) and tent areas to comfortable cabins and motel rooms, ensuring a suitable option for all types of visitors.
• Scenic Shadow Lake: The 130-acre lake is a beautiful centerpiece, offering excellent opportunities for fishing (stocked with bass, bream, and crappie) and non-motorized boating (kayaks, canoes).
• Extensive Trail System: With miles of nature trails and mountain biking trails, the park provides ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the picturesque landscape of the Bienville National Forest, especially vibrant during the fall.
• Recent Renovations: Significant upgrades to the campsites (including concrete pads on many lake-front sites), bathhouses, and the pool slide demonstrate the park's ongoing commitment to providing modern and high-quality facilities.
• Variety of Recreational Activities: Beyond water activities and trails, the park offers disc golf, tennis courts, a softball field, and multiple playgrounds, ensuring a wide range of entertainment options for all ages.
• Convenient Location: Its prime location directly off I-20 makes it easily accessible from both Jackson and Meridian, minimizing travel time for Mississippi residents.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The park is designed with families in mind, offering a safe and engaging environment with numerous activities for children and adults alike.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Allowing pets in the campground (with specific rules) means that families don't have to leave their furry companions behind.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness and well-kept nature of the park, contributing to a pleasant and enjoyable experience.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Roosevelt State Park and its amenities, including the Bathhouse, Pool & Waterslide, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 2149 MS-13, Morton, MS 39117, USA

Park Phone: (601) 732-6316

Email: rooseveltstatepark@wfp.ms.gov

Reservations for campsites, cabins, and motel rooms can be made online through the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) reservation website: https://reserve.mdwfp.com/. It is always recommended to contact the park directly or check their official website for the most current information on operating hours (especially for the Splash Zone), fees (including park entrance fees and pool/waterslide fees), seasonal closures, and any specific policies or alerts before your visit.

For Mississippi residents, Roosevelt State Park in Morton stands as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a multitude of reasons. Its strategic location, nestled conveniently off I-20 between Jackson and Meridian, makes it an easily accessible getaway for a significant portion of the state's population. This ease of access means less travel time and more precious moments spent enjoying the park's extensive offerings, whether for a quick weekend escape or a more prolonged family vacation.

The park's comprehensive array of accommodations, from fully equipped RV sites to comfortable cabins and charming motel rooms, ensures that it can cater to every preference and budget, making it a truly inclusive option for locals. The recent renovations to campsites and bathhouses further enhance the experience, providing modern comforts in a natural setting that rivals many private resorts.

Perhaps the biggest draw for Mississippi families is the abundance of on-site recreational activities, particularly the popular Shadow Lake Splash Zone with its inviting pool and thrilling waterslide. This feature, combined with opportunities for fishing, hiking, disc golf, and boating on Shadow Lake, ensures that there's always something engaging for every age group. For locals, it's about having a full-fledged resort experience within their home state, minimizing travel logistics while maximizing fun and relaxation.

In essence, Roosevelt State Park offers Mississippians a complete package: convenience, diverse amenities, beautiful natural surroundings, and a commitment to providing an enjoyable and memorable outdoor experience. It's not just a place to camp; it's a cherished local treasure where families and friends can create lasting memories amidst the serene beauty and vibrant activities of the Mississippi outdoors.