Simpson County: Waterfronts, Museums, and Architecture

Simpson County Lake and D’Lo Water Park offer two different connections to the water: one is north of Magee, while the other is on the Strong River in central D’Lo near Mendenhall. Trails, sports facilities, museums, and historic architecture round out the picture. You can shape your stay around scenery, recreation, or local history.

A lake and a river as distinct points of reference

Simpson County Lake covers 76 acres and is located five miles north of Magee on Highway 49. D’Lo Water Park offers a different landscape: the scenic park is on the Strong River in central D’Lo, near Mendenhall. When comparing the two waterfront locations, you can consider the lake’s size and location on the one hand, and the park’s river setting and connection to the town on the other. Check current operating information before visiting Simpson County Lake.

Trails and community recreation facilities

Jimmy Clyde Sportsplex has nearly a mile of wide walkways that can be used as a running track. Mendenhall Park has a walking path and playground equipment. McNair Springs has a 340-foot illuminated baseball field. The facilities are clearly distinct: walkways for running, a walking path with playground equipment, and a baseball field with specified dimensions. If you plan to visit one of these community facilities, check the current availability of individual amenities before your visit.

Architecture and history in Mendenhall

The Simpson County Courthouse stands in downtown Mendenhall. The monumental, three-story yellow-brick building is designed in the Neoclassical style. Its height, building material, and style provide a specific architectural description that sets it apart from the county’s other historic subjects.

The Mendenhall Hotel grew out of a hotel built on Main Street in 1911 and is associated with the Revolving Tables. This hotel history presents a different subject from the courthouse’s architecture: the historic connection between a hotel and hospitality. These two perspectives help you explore the history of the places through different features.

Museums and a designated landmark

The Mississippi State Sanatorium Museum offers insights into the life and history of the institution through immersive narrative and biographical exhibits, as well as artifacts. Tours are available by request; make arrangements before you arrive. The exhibits and tours by request provide both a specific subject-related and practical point of reference for your planning.

The Magee Museum is located in the west wing of the Community House next to the Civic Center on First Avenue NW in Magee. Genealogist Mrs. Sharelle Kennedy Williams helped establish and curate the museum. Magee Elementary in Magee was designated a Mississippi Landmark on May 6, 2022. The museum exhibits and the landmark designation offer different ways to explore local history: narrative and biographical exhibits on the one hand, and the formal designation of a named building on the other.

A dated event in Magee

Magee Crazy Day is scheduled for October 24, 2026, as its 51st annual event. If you are planning your trip around this date, check the event details for this edition before you arrive.

Discover more destinations: Magee, Mendenhall, Neshoba County, George County, Jackson County, Panola, Smith County, Kemper County.

For the overview of the wider region: Mississippi.