Meridian is a busy city and the county seat of Mississippi's Lauderdale County. The city was originally established in 1860 at the junction of two railroads: the Mobile and Ohio Railroad and the Southern Railway of Mississippi. Meridian was officially incorporated on February 10, 1860. In 1864, much of the city burned down during the Battle of Meridian in the Civil War. However, Meridian was rebuilt and would go on to see major growth throughout the rest of the 19th century. Between 1890 and 1930, the community became the largest city in the state. During the early 1900s, Meridian was also a major manufacturing center for the southern portion of the United States.
As of 2023, Meridian is home to approximately 33,000 people and is known for its thriving downtown area as well as its deep history in arts and entertainment. If you want to learn more about the city while you're visiting, you could browse the exhibits at the Mississippi Industrial Heritage Center or explore the Meridian Civil War Trail. You could also stop by the Jimmie Rodgers Museum to learn about the famous musician who was born in Meridian. If you have the whole family with you, consider spending an afternoon having educational fun at the Mississippi Children’s Museum.
When you're in the mood for live entertainment, one good option is to catch a play or concert at the historic Temple Theater. You could also enjoy a show and the breathtaking architecture at the Riley Center. There are several excellent places to shop around Meridian, including the Bonita Lakes Mall, the Meridian Underground Music Exchange, and Family Flea Market. You'll find some superb restaurants around town as well, such as the Harvest Grill, Weidmann’s Restaurant, and Squealer’s Bar-B-Que.
While exploring Meridian, you could camp at the Meridian East/Toomsuba KOA Journey. There, you can snag one of the 49 full-hookup RV campsites, all of which are spacious and shaded. Guests at the park are provided with many amenities, including a snack bar, propane, firewood, a camp store with groceries, and horseshoe pits. Additionally, the campground is located only a couple of miles from the Alabama border.
The Bonita Lakes RV Park is another wonderful camping option in the Meridian area. The extra-large campground offers many RV campsites with full hookups and is located conveniently close to downtown Meridian. During your stay, you'll have access to a large fishing lake, free Wi-Fi, picnic tables, showers, and many more amenities. There are also several scenic hiking trails surrounding the park.
You should also consider the Benchmark Coach & RV Park, which boasts 35 full-hookup RV campsites available for just $25 per night. The campground also features a propane-filling station, free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, cable television, and other amenities. While you're there, you'll be only a short walk from Sowashee Creek, where you can cast your fishing line.
Legion State Park is a tranquil nature area located near McMillan, Mississippi. This park has a long history and was one of the original state parks established by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The most notable feature of the park is the Legion Lodge, a log cabin that has not been altered since the 1930s. If you head to nearby Lake Palila or Lake Toppasha, you'll find excellent opportunities to fish for bream and bass. You could also explore the area by hiking the scenic nature trails, and if you've got the kids with you, they'll love hanging out at the on-site playground.
Another picturesque natural haven near Meridian is Roosevelt State Park, which is a very popular destination for outdoor recreation. One of the most impressive spots in the park is its scenic overlook, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of Bienville National Forest below. Other features of the park include a swimming pool, several lovely nature trails, and even an 18-hole disc golf course. If you want to partake in some water-based recreation, the nearby Shadow Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, waterskiing, tubing, and jet skiing.
Paul B. Johnson State Park is a serene lakefront retreat situated near Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Located on the shores of Geiger Lake, the park is a great place to observe local wildlife including foxes, bobcats, coyotes, white-tailed deer, and many bird species. Visitors can also head out on the water for a day of fishing, boating, or watersports. The park has many other awesome features including a swimming beach, a visitor center, a picnic area, a playground, a splash pad, and a game room.
The Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail is a wonderful national site commemorating the events that gave African Americans equal voting rights in the United States. You can start by checking out the Selma Interpretive Center, where you can view a variety of photos and artifacts commemorating the 54-mile march that took place in March 1965. You'll also want to stop by both the Lowndes Interpretive Center and the Montgomery Interpretive Center to continue learning about the monumental march.
Another fascinating historic site relating to the fight for civil rights is the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument. The site commemorates the many struggles that African Americans endured during their fight for equal rights in this country. The educational site features a variety of historic landmarks, educational plaques, and incredible sculptures. A few of the spots all visitors should check out around the site include Kelly Ingram Park, the A.G. Gaston Motel, the 16th Street Baptist Church, the Fourth Avenue Historic District, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
Gulf Islands National Seashore is both a gorgeous nature area and a location of historical significance. The site itself has a fascinating history; at different times, it's been controlled by the British, Spanish, French, and Americans. Today, when you visit the seashore, you'll encounter pristine sandy beaches, inviting warm waters, and plenty of lovely scenery. You can walk along the peaceful shoreline and explore the many miles of nature trails.
Bienville National Forest comprises 178,541 acres across four Mississippi counties. The forest offers both picturesque scenery and wonderful recreational opportunities. Among the hardwood trees, pine forests, ponds, lakes, and streams, visitors can partake in hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, camping, fishing, boating, and other activities. A couple of the best hiking routes to explore are the Ranger Trail and the Shockaloe Trail.
Tombigbee National Forest is a relatively small national forest, encompassing 67,000 acres in Northeastern Mississippi. Named for the nearby Tombigbee River, the forest contains rolling hills, towering pine trees, and several peaceful lakes. At Davis and Choctaw Lakes, you can partake in fishing, boating, and swimming. If you prefer land-based recreation, the forest boasts over 30 miles of trails that are excellent for hiking and mountain biking. There are also several miles of equestrian trails as well as some lovely camping areas.
De Soto National Forest is Mississippi's largest national forest, covering more than 500,000 acres of longleaf pines and beautiful savannas. The forest is named after Hernando de Soto, who was the first known European to cross the Mississippi River. The vast natural haven provides all kinds of recreational opportunities, including ATV riding, fishing, canoeing, biking, geocaching, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. There are many scenic hiking trails to explore as well, such as the Tuxachanie Trail and the Black Creek River Trail.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Meridian, MS, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Meridian?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Meridian from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Meridian?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.
