John W. Kyle State Park

Park provides convenient stop in northern Mississippi

Named for a politician and Mississippi Supreme Court justice from Batesville, John William Kyle State Park sits on the shores of Sardis Reservoir at 4235 State Park Road in the town of Sardis.

One of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers “Big Four” flood control reservoirs in northern Mississippi, Sardis Reservoir covers about 32,500 acres at summer pool. Impounded on the Little Tallahatchie River in 1939, the oldest and deepest of the Big Four, Sardis plunges to about 70 feet deep at summer pool stage, making it one of the deepest lakes in Mississippi. The reservoir provides excellent fishing for bass, bream and catfish, but it excels as one of the best waters in the nation for big crappie. Some exceed 3 pounds. 

“Since we are located on Sardis Reservoir, the park offers a wide array of recreational opportunities in an area abundant in natural beauty,” said Jessica Camp, the park manager. “The park was developed alongside Sardis Reservoir. Today, the park offers visitors easy access to boating, fishing, camping, golf and the natural beauty of northern Mississippi. Visitors enjoy scenic views of Sardis Reservoir, its renowned fishing opportunities and easy access to one of the largest lakes in the state.”

Overnight stays

Many people stay at the park to fish the lake. For overnight visitors, John W. Kyle State Park offers 125 developed campsites, 18 vacation cabins, a group camp and two golf villas on the western shoreline of the reservoir. The park also offers a visitors’ center, campground laundry, boat launch and picnic areas. One of the biggest attractions for the area, the Mallard Pointe Golf Course rates as one of the premier public golf courses in the state.

“John W. Kyle State Park offers something for nearly every outdoor enthusiast,” Camp said. “Whether that person is looking for a relaxing lakeside getaway, a camping trip with the family, a weekend of boating and fishing or 18 holes of championship golf, the park provides a beautiful setting with convenient access to both Sardis Reservoir and nearby Oxford. Its combination of outdoor recreation and comfort makes it a desirable year-round destination.”

About an hour from Memphis and 20 miles from Oxford, the park creates outstanding lodging opportunities for anyone who wants to attend the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) sporting events. Families can stay at one of the waterfront cabins. Large groups can stay at the group camp. The park meeting room, located inside the lodge, can accommodate up to 75 people, an excellent choice for family gatherings or business conferences.

“Our location on Sardis Reservoir and close to the University of Mississippi makes John W. Kyle State Park an ideal destination for family vacations, fishing trips, camping weekends, golf outings and Ole Miss football weekends,” Camp said. “During football season, the park is a very popular lodging destination for people attending the games in nearby Oxford so make reservations early.”

Recreation and relaxation

The park does not operate its own restaurant, but visitors can find many good places to eat and any supplies they need to buy after a short drive to Sardis or Oxford. The park stays open all year long. The park office remains open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. People can make overnight accommodation reservations throughout the year.

“The park is one of the premier outdoor destinations in northern Mississippi,” Camp said. “It offers visitors the perfect balance of recreation and relaxation. Whether visitors stay for a night or a week, the park provides an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty and hospitality of northern Mississippi.”

For more information, call 662-487-1345. Online, see www.mdwfp.com/parks-destinations/park/john-w-kyle-state-park.