Real Treasures
The friendly folks of Chickasaw County invite you to experience the treasure they call home. Look at the gems you’ll find!
- The Natchez Trace Parkway—Two lane, scenic, natural beauty
- Davis Lake—Outstanding fishing, boating, camping and hiking
- The Tombigbee National Forest—Excellent turkey and deer hunting
- The Confederate Soldiers’ Cemetery—Civil War burial site in Okolona
- The Carnegie Library—Mississippi’s first, established in 1909 In Houston
- Quaint country bed and breakfasts offers a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere
- Quality Motels and restaurants provides great accommodation and dining
- A city civic center and county coliseum—venues for any group or event
- Camp Tik-a-With a—Van Vleet’s Girl Scout Camp
- The Chickasaw County Fair—Memorable and traditional family fun
The Natchez Trace Parkway
Originally a series of hunter and Indian paths leading northward from the Mississippi River to the valleys of Tennessee, the Natchez Trace has been developed into modern two-lane parkway by the National Park Service. Today, the Natchez Trace Parkway traverses Chickasaw County, closely following the original course. Visitors from across the country visit the Parkway annually. Although the methods of travel vary with each visitor, many elect to bicycle the entire Parkway, taking full advantage of the natural beauty of the route. Special trails for horseback riding are also available. The Hernando Desoto, Witch Dance, Bynum Mounds and Chickasaw Agency scenic overlooks provide vista reminiscent of what Native Americans and early settlers must have seen on the original trace.
Davis Lake
Adjacent to the Natchez Trace Parkway at mile-marker 243, Davis Lake offers a retreat from the hectic, hurry-up pace of everyday life. Nature trails provide a tranquil escape for hikers to experience the full beauty of the area. Shaded campsites, complete with electrical and water hookups, have modern convenience without modern hassles. Swimming, boating and fishing are also available.
Okolona’s Confederate Soldiers’ Cemetery
As Chickasaw County grew, settlers experienced difficulty traveling to Houston (the county seat) when the Chuquatonchee Creek would overflow. Roads were impassable for most of the year. To combat this problem, special legislation was passed making Okolona, located on the eastern side of the Chuquatonchee, a second county seat. But before the civic pride had a chance to develop, the Civil War broke out. Okolona itself was raided three times and burned twice. Chickasaw County suffered between 900 and 1000 Civil War deaths. Many of those soldiers were laid to rest in Okolona’s Confederate Soldiers’ Cemetery. Today, the cemetery is visited by Civil War buffs from across the nation.
Fine Shopping
Fine shopping isn’t exclusive to major metropolitan areas. Chickasaw County offers something for everyone. Shops range from quaint, old fashioned drug store soda fountains to gift shops offering traditional baubles and trendy treasures. Wholesale and retail furniture outlets also draw visitors from near and far.
Special Events
The Annual Flywheel Festival
Held the last weekend of April, this festival celebrates a vital part of all engines—the flywheel. Featured events include antique engine displays, an antique tractor pull, antique and classic car show, quilt show, Children’s Penny Art Fair, arts & crafts vendors, children’s games and activities, a food court, live music and much more.
The Chickasaw County Fair
Held annually in late summer at the Chickasaw County Coliseum, the Chickasaw County Fair features traditional family fun such as bake-offs, 4H judging, carnival rides and a “Queen of the Fair” contest.
Houston Homecoming
Held annually Saturday proceeding July 4th. It is an event with fun for everyone. It includes a Veterans parade, food and entertainment. The evening is topped off with a gigantic fireworks display which can be seen for miles. It is a great time for the people of Houston and Chickasaw County to come together and fellowship with friends and family.
City of Lights
Each Christmas, Houston transforms into the City of Lights. Thousands of white lights are draped from the courthouse dome and engulf the town square and surrounding buildings. Retail merchants kick-off their Christmas season during the holiday lighting.