Visiting Grenada Lake in Mississippi: Your Complete Guide
Grenada Lake is a beautiful and serene destination located in the heart of northern Mississippi. If you’re looking for a getaway with plenty of outdoorsy activities to choose from, then this is the perfect spot for you.
Finding the right information to plan your vacation can be tough sometimes and the information overload can make things even more stressful.
This guide to Grenada Lake will give you a bit of history, tell you the popular activities, plus where to stay nearby to make your vacation planning as stress-free as possible.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through this link, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for keeping Stuck On The Go going! I was hosted by Visit Grenada, MS for my time in town. All opinions are my own.
History of Grenada Lake, MS
Grenada Lake is one of the most beautiful and unique landmarks in Mississippi. Its construction began back in 1947 as a part of a flood control plan in response to the historic Mississippi River Flood of 1927.
The lake was created by damming the Yalobusha River, and construction was completed in 1954. Grenada Dam was one of four dams built in northern Mississippi to help control flooding in the Mississippi Delta.
Today, Grenada Lake is one of the most popular sites for locals and tourists alike, offering activities such as fishing, boating, swimming or just enjoying the scenery.
Things to Do at Grenada Lake
Grenada Lake is one of the most popular attractions in Grenada, MS and there is plenty to do near the lake. From fishing to lounging on the beach to hiking the Lost Bluff Trail, check some of these out on your Mississippi vacation.
Fishing at Grenada Lake
One of the most popular and well-known activities on the lake is crappie fishing. Fish caught here consistently break records and range from three to almost four pounds.
I had an amazing experience fishing with Grenada Lake Charters while I was in town. Even though I had to go fishing in the afternoon, my guide Ben, put us on the fish. However, if you want to have an ideal fishing experience, it is best to go early in the morning.
The livescope equipment that they provide lets you see the fish when they are right in front of you and almost makes it seem like you’re playing a video game. The technology is awesome but don’t think it guarantees you’ll catch the fish!
If crappie fishing is the only reason for your visit, then you should consider booking an all-inclusive trip with Grenada Lake Charters. They offer packages with all your meals, lodging, and fishing included.
If you don’t want to go on a chartered trip and just want to do things yourself, then some of the most popular boat ramps are the South Abutment Launch, Wolf Creek Ramp, and Hugh White Landing.
Don’t have your own boat? You can also fish down below the Spillway along the Yalobusha River. Make sure you have all the proper permits and licenses whether you’re on land or in the water!
Best Time to Fish at Grenada Lake
Spring is the perfect time to catch the trophy fish while late summer or fall lets you avoid the crowds but still catch some good ones.
During winter, the lake is drained, so water levels go down considerably and it isn’t a great time to come. Summer will be blazing hot so also not an ideal time to come.
Grenada Lake Crappie Record
As of January 2026, the long-standing Grenada Lake crappie record is 4.26-pounds and was caught in the Crappie Masters Tournament in 2022.
Visitors Center
Grenada Lake Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your trip when visiting Grenada Lake. Inside, you’ll find a theater and educational exhibits that detail the lake’s landscape, wildlife, and history.
There is even a life-size eagle’s nest that you can stand beside to see just how big these really are. It’s cool to see for kids and adults alike.
It’s also a great way to get an overview of the lake as well as ask any questions you may have from the friendly staff. In the back of the building, you’ll also find a deck where you can enjoy a beautiful view out over the lake.
If you’re traveling with kids, there’s even a playground nearby. There are multiple spots for picnics around here too from the picnic pavilions to the covered swings right along the lake.
Beaches & Swimming
Grenada Landing is the most popular beach on the lake which is very close to the Visitor Center and around the South Abutment Boat Launch.
Cape Retreat is another day-use area, also known as The Rocks on Google Maps. Just note that you may want to avoid this spot after any rain.
Oak Grove (near Grenada Landing) and Willow Run are two other day-use areas that have seasonal beaches.
All four of the beaches mentioned above are open seasonally but the North Abutment Campground does have a beach that is open year-round.
There is a small entrance fee (as of January 2026, it’s $2 for walk-ins, $5 per vehicle, and no fee charged for children under the age of 16) but that’s very reasonable for a day of swimming.
To find these beaches, this map is incredibly helpful. Check it out before heading to the Grenada area and you may be able to pick up a paper copy at the Visitor Center.
Swimming is one of the best things to do near Grenada!
Picnicking
I’ve mentioned the picnic areas already near the Visitor Center. You’ll find the most picnic sites in this area of Grenada Landing (Beach Area & Oak Grove) and South Abutment. Willow Run has a few as well.
The map linked above (here is the link again) is incredibly helpful for figuring out where pavilions and picnic sites are located.
You can either pick something up to go at one of the restaurants in Grenada or grill out at one of their grills here. What could be better than a good meal with a view of the lake?
Some picnic shelters can be reserved in advance and they also have large pavilions that can be reserved if you’re visiting with a large group.
Boating
Another very popular activity on Grenada Lake! If you want to take your boat out then there are 16 different boat ramps on the lake. Just make sure you know the water levels.
From July 1st to January 1st the lake is drained during this time and as the water levels go down, some of the ramps become unusable.
Most of the ramps have a $5 launch fee, but there are a few that have no fee. These are: Choctaw, Skuna-Turkey, Torrance, Upper Yalobusha, Wolf Creek or South Outlet Old River Run.
Hiking
The best hiking trail in the area is the Lost Bluff Trail as it has a great overlook of the spillway and takes you through a few very steep sections on the trail. It’s a great workout at about 2 miles!
You also get to see an old Confederate redoubt which is an earthen fort built during the Civil War.
Two other popular trails are the Old River Run Nature Trail and the Haserway Wetland Management Area Nature Trail.
Old River Run is just over half a mile and follows the old and new Yalobusha River runs. The Haserway Nature Trail is 1.5 miles long and starts behind Grenada Dam. Come at dawn or dusk and you’re likely to see lots of wildlife.
Hunting
If you’re looking for a great hunting destination, Grenada Lake should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re after deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit, or ducks, Grenada Lake has all of these.
Much of the land surrounding the lake is open for public hunting (with exceptions), but you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of Mississippi.
You’ll especially want to double-check that the area you’re considering isn’t closed to hunting like the developed areas of the lake, campgrounds, and day-use areas.
Grenada Lake Camping
Camping is one of the most popular ways to enjoy Grenada Lake as there are multiple campgrounds near here.
The North Abutment Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds in the area and great for anyone who needs full hookups. A few sites are located right on the lake.
Hugh White State Park manages a great campground right below Grenada Dam along the Yalobusha River with 128 sites. Each site has water and electric plus a grill and picnic table. There are four bathhouses in the campground.
If you are a tent camper, then check out Eagle Point Campground. It’s located on a peninsula on Grenada Lake with the most beautiful views of the lake. There are bathrooms but no showers here.
Cabins at Grenada Lake
There are a few options for cabins at Grenada Lake depending on what you’re looking for, however, you won’t find any with views of Lake Grenada except in Hugh White State Park.
The cabins in Hugh White State Park have not been updated in a very long time so they aren’t highly recommended but if you’re a hardcore fisherman just looking for a bed, then try them out.
If you’re looking for something a little more family-friendly or something for a couples getaway, then you could try this cabin near Gums Crossing and Turkey Creek or this Piney Woods Cabin.
Grenada Lake Resort has multiple cabin options (again, not right on the lake) that are located on the northeast side of the lake.
For a little touch of luxury and a cabin that will sleep a large group, check out this rental near Coffeeville. It’s also close to Gums Crossing and Turkey Creek.
There are plenty of hotels in Grenada if you prefer to stay in town too.
FAQs on Grenada Lake, Mississippi
What is Grenada Lake known for?
Grenada Lake is known for the abundance of outdoor activities nearby but especially for fishing. The lake was created as part of a flood control plan following the historic Mississippi River Flood of 1927.
Today, Grenada Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, swimming, picnicking, and hiking. Anglers come from all over to try their luck at catching crappie.
Can you swim in Grenada Lake?
Yes, you can swim in Grenada Lake. There are five different designated swimming beaches which include Cape Retreat, Grenada Landing, Oak Grove, Willow Run, and the North Abutment Campground.
Is Grenada Lake open to the public?
Yes, Grenada Lake is open to the public! There is a small entrance fee for day-use but it is open to anyone.
Wrap Up: Guide to Grenada Lake
Grenada Lake is a popular destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and endless recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder that Grenada Lake is one of the most popular attractions in northern Mississippi.
Whether you’re an avid fisherman looking to reel in the catch of a lifetime, a family seeking a fun day on the water, or just looking to enjoy beautiful lake views, you’ll find that here.
And if you’re planning a road trip through Mississippi, Grenada Lake should definitely be on your itinerary. Don’t miss all the fun things to do in Grenada and the surrounding area!
