40 Miss. Code. R. 6-1.2 - GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR STATE PARKS
Disclaimer: Patrons using the facilities at any Park shall be responsible for any loss or damage caused by the patron to such facilities. The MDWFP reserves the right to pursue any legal means, whether civil and/or criminal, to recover its losses or damages. Patrons will be required to present a valid Credit Card and photo ID upon check-in, to assure compliance with this responsibility.
Additionally, State wildlife management areas (WMAs), fishing lakes, and parks, are managed to be as close to a natural condition as possible, while providing access and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Any number of animals, plants, and insects, some of which may be dangerous to humans, may be found on state WMAs, lakes, and parks. Please enjoy the opportunities we offer to interact with nature, but be mindful of your surroundings. Should you have any questions about specific locations, please call us at 601-432-2400 or visit www.mdwfp.com.
A.
RESERVATIONS
1. Reservations are not required but are
highly recommended especially during the peak season (May 15 through August
15). They may be made via the Internet 365 days out of the year, through the
Itinio call center (except on Thanksgiving,
Christmas, or New Year's) or by contacting the park office between 8:00 A.M.
and 5:00 P.M. (except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's).
2. Reservations will not be held after 11:00
a.m. on the morning after the scheduled arrival date, and the site may be
released to other campers, unless the park is notified and acceptable
arrangements for the late arrival have been made. If the park manager has been
notified of a late arrival, he must hold the site. Both reservation and fees
are forfeited if camper does not show or notify the park.
3. Reservations will be accepted for 1-14
days, up to 13 months in advance.
4. Upon checking in, the guest will be
required to provide a credit card or driver's license number or both for
reservation purposes. This information will be recorded on all
receipts.
5. Damage assessments may
be incurred for theft of, or damages to, State Property.
6. A Damage Fee may be assessed per facility
if necessary to clean-up or repair damage beyond ordinary cleaning or wear and
tear. Fees may also be charged for lost/stolen items.
B.
CABINS, MOTELS, VILLAS &
BUSINESS RETREAT CENTERS (BRC):
1.
Reservations may be made no more than 13 months in advance of the current date.
A 50% deposit will be required at the time the reservation is made. Payment
shall be made in full upon arrival.
2. Reservations will not be accepted for more
than five cabins, motels or villas units on the same day. Exceptions may be
granted by the Executive Director or designee.
3. Minimum length of stay from May 15th
through August 15th is 3 nights weekdays, weekends, holidays and special
events. (weekend is a Friday and Saturday night stay).
4. A 3 night minimum is required for Memorial
Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. A 2 night minimum is required for
Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and Easter.
5. Cabin stay includes but is not limited to
fishing, boat launch, swimming pool and tennis (where available). These
activities are limited to the registered number of guests per unit not to
exceed occupancy. Visitors of the guests must pay for all entrance and
activities. Call park for activities not included.
C.
CAMPSITES
1. Reservations may be made no more than 13
months in advance of the current date. Full payment is required at the time
reservation is made.
2. Minimum
length of stay from May 15th through August 15th is 2 nights on the weekends, 3
nights for special events and holidays and no minimum during the
week.
3. From August 16th through
May 14th there is no minimum length of stay except for 3 nights on holidays and
special events.
4. A 3 night
minimum is required for Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. A 2 night
minimum is required for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and
Easter.
5. RV campsite rental
includes, but is not limited to, fishing & boat launch. These activities
are limited to the registered number of guest per RV campsite not to exceed 8
people. Visitors of the RV camping guests must pay for all entrance and
activities. Call park for activities not included.
6. Primitive camp site rental does not
include fishing and boat launch.
D.
GROUP CAMPS
1. Reservations may be made no more than 13
months in advance of the current date. A $100.00 deposit is required at the
time a reservation is made based on the total number of nights and meals to be
served. If total number of nights and/or meals is increased, the reserving
party must contact the park and pay the additional deposit.
2. Group Camps do not include fishing, boat
launch, swimming pool, or tennis.
3. Entry fee will also be charged in addition
to the rental fee for lodges, meeting rooms and pavilions.
E.
ALL OTHER RENTABLE STRUCTURES
1. Reservations for all group buildings and
shelters can be made up to 13 months in advance and will be handled through the
reservation system at the park only. A 100% deposit is required at the time the
reservation is made. Reservations can be made for half day or full day
increments at the discretion of the park manager.
2. "All other rentable structures" do not
include fishing, boat launch, swimming pool, or tennis.
3. Entry fee will also be charged in addition
to the rental fee for lodges, meeting rooms and pavilions.
F.
CANCELLATIONS, REFUNDS &
TRANSFERS
1. A refund may be received
if:
a. We were not able to provide the service
for which fees were paid in advance.
b. Park or facility has to be closed due to
natural hazards or "State of Emergency".
c. Cancellation of 7 days plus days, minus a
$8.00 non-refundable reservation fee.
d. Cancellation 6 days or less, forfeit half
of reservation amount.
2. No refunds will be received:
a. If the park guest does not show up for
their respective reservations.
b.
For shortened stays except for reasons listed in this section and only for the
balance of the days left on the reservation.
c. If the reservation is cancelled within 3
days.
d. Once checked in, a
cancellation is not permitted, nor will a refund be issued.
3. Transfers:
a. Transfers consisting of a change of date
and/or site will be allowed from the actual date of the reservation up to 7
days prior to arrival date at no additional fee.
b. Transfers between RV sites will be allowed
within the park where the reservations were made at any time but will be based
on site availability.
c. Cabin
reservations can be transferred to another cabin, as long as the originally
reserved cabin has not been occupied by guest.
d. No changes or transfers to reservations
are allowed within 3 days.
e. A
transfer fee of $8.00 per reservation will apply to any transfer made within
the 7 day cancellation policy.
G.
CAMPGROUNDS
1. Camping shall be confined to the
designated campground or designated overflow areas. No camping or camping units
are allowed in the cabin areas, day-use areas, or group camp areas.
2. No more than one camping unit will be
allowed on a camp pad. One additional unit (tent only) may be allowed with
manager's approval and charged the primitive camping rate per night.
3. No more than 8 people can occupy a
campsite at any one time, visitors and overnight guests included.
4. The reservation holder must be present for
the duration of the stay. Persons eligible for discounts may not make a
reservation for persons who are not eligible. Proof of eligibility will be
required upon check in. See, Rule
1.2 State Park Rules, "Camping" Section
for required forms.
5. Check-out
time is 2:00 P.M.; check-in time is 4:00 P.M. All fees are payable in
advance.
6. Campgrounds and camp
areas are restricted to registered campers and guests only. Guests shall leave
the area prior to 10:00 P.M.
7.
Campsites will not be rented to any person under 21 years of age. Exception may
be granted by the Executive Director or designee. Campers, tents, vehicles,
children, and pets shall not be left unattended.
8. The maximum stay on a campsite is 14 days.
Campsites may be rented by the month at certain state parks. A monthly camping
rate is available at selected parks. Monthly, extended stay, camping is
restricted to designated sites. Ninety (90) days is the maximum allowable stay
on a campsite. An extension may be granted with approval by the Executive
Director or his designee. Extensions will only be approved in ninety (90) day
increments.
9. No permanent use of
rented facilities for residence purposes is allowed. "Homesteading" or
otherwise using rentable facilities for a sole place of residence is
prohibited. The act of Homesteading includes but is not limited to: erecting
permanent or semi-permanent structures.
10. Cluttering a rented site with garbage,
storage containers, boxes, buckets, decorations or other objects is prohibited.
The use of appliances such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, or freezers
outside of the camper; or parking trailers or extra vehicles is
prohibited.
11. No campsite can be
retained without a camping unit (camper or erected tent) placed on the site.
Vehicles, boats and other items will be removed or towed away, as necessary, at
the owner's expense. A tent not fully erected is subject to removal. The
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is not liable for property or
camping units left unattended. Campers leaving for a day trip in an RV that is
their only source of transportation should check with individual parks for
methods of holding their site.
12.
The washing of vehicles or campers, routine maintenance tasks, or major repairs
to campers, boats, or vehicles is prohibited within State Parks or State Lakes.
In the case of an emergency, the park manager should be contacted for
instructions.
13. Gray water or
sewage must be placed in the dump station (when provided). In no case is the
discharge of gray water or sewage on the ground or campsite permitted nor is
the storage of gray water or sewage in containers not manufactured specifically
for this purpose. Violations are subject to criminal charges, fines, and/or the
cost of the clean-up.
14. Special
group camping rates are available for Scouts and other non-profit groups. These
groups are permitted in designated areas only. Should these groups choose to
reside in the primary camping area, they are subject to the same rates and
restrictions of any other camper including occupancy restrictions.
15. Except for reserved campsites, a campsite
must be occupied the moment a site is rented.
16. All guests and visitors are subject to
entrance fee requirements. No exemptions are permitted.
H.
ORV/EQUESTRIAN CAMPGROUND AT TRACE
STATE PARK
1. No use of ORV/horses in a
manner destructive to campsite, grounds, roads and/or disruption to other
guests.
2. The use of roads by
ORV's and horses will be limited to the ORV/equestrian campground and only to
be used to access trails. ORV/equestrian use on, through and around this
camping area is prohibited. ORV and horses are prohibited on all other state
park roads.
3. No operation of ORV
(1) hour past sunset.
4. Use of
line and corralling is permitted at no extra charge but must be in a
non-populated approved by park management prior to set up. Distance from the
campground and wind direction will be determining factors in
location.
5. Removal lines,
corralling structures and any other debris (hay/manure etc.) will be the
responsibility of the person renting the campsite. The campsites must be
maintained and kept sanitary at all times.
6. Campers are expected to comply with all
other applicable rules and regulations set forth in this document.
I.
CABINS, COTTAGES, MOTELS,
AND VILLAS
1. A monthly lodging unit
rate may be offered by selected parks. Requests for a monthly rate will be
submitted to the Executive Director of the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries,
and Parks or his designee. This is acceptable only when the monthly occupancy
does not restrict opportunities for the general public.
2. Units will not be rented to persons under
the age of 21, and children will not be left unattended overnight. The
reservation holder must be present for the duration of the stay.
3. Check-in time is 3:00 P.M. Check-out time
is 11:00 A.M. All fees are payable in advance. Guests arriving after 5:00 P.M.
must make prior arrangements with the park office.
4. Overnight lodging unit areas are
restricted to unit guests and visitors. Stated sleeping occupancy of cabins
will not be exceeded. Contact park or parks web site,
www.mdwfp.com, for maximum
occupancy.
5. No camping trailers
will be allowed in the overnight lodging areas.
6. Unit guests will be responsible for
damages to all units and equipment. No furniture or equipment shall be moved
from one unit to another.
7.
Certain overnight lodging units at state parks will be held for official state
business for the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Commission,
Executive Staff, elected officials, and other state employees in the
performance of their duties for the State of Mississippi and the Department of
Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. The use of these facilities for official state
business will require prior approval from the Executive Director of the
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
8. Pets are forbidden in and around the
overnight lodging areas.
9.
Overnight lodging areas are restricted to registered campers and guests only.
Guests shall leave the area prior to 10:00 P.M.
J.
BUSINESS RETREAT CENTER
1. The following rules and regulations apply
to lodging and meeting facilities designated as Business Retreat Center,
intended solely for persons attending training seminars, conferences or other
meetings, which facilities are otherwise not suited for use by the general
public or persons under the age of eighteen years.
a. Business Retreat Center facilities shall
be available for use by any business, governmental or similar entity for
meetings, conferences, training, or other "retreat" purposes.
b. Only persons attending the meeting of the
entity using the Business Retreat Center may stay in park lodging associated
with the Business Retreat Center.
c. Only activities associated with the
meeting purpose of the entity using the Business Retreat Center are allowed.
While it is acceptable for the meeting activities to include meals and
reasonable social activities, the Business Retreat Center may not be used for
hosting a party or reception.
d.
Persons attending meetings at a Business Retreat Center shall be expected to
comply with other applicable rules and regulations of the State Park System
and/or the park where the center is located.
2. Costs for Business Retreat Center use,
begin at $500 per night and may be more depending upon what ancillary
facilities or services are to be used.
3. Business Retreat Center: Currently, the
MDWFP operates a Business Retreat Center at J. P. Coleman State Park. Please
contact the Mississippi State Parks at 601-432-2400 or 800-GO-PARKS for
additional information on reserving a Business Retreat Center for your
organization.
K.
GROUP CAMPS
1. Group camps
reservations require a minimum number of people to reserve and have a maximum
number of people that they can accommodate. These limitations vary from park to
park depending on the size of their facilities. Deposits are charged to
complete reservations.
2. From May
15th to August 15th and on holidays a minimum of 2 nights stay and 6 meals are
required. From August 16th to May 14th a minimum of 1 night and no meals are
required.
3. Unit guests will be
responsible for damages to all units and equipment. No furniture or equipment
shall be moved from one unit to another.
L.
SWIMMING (POOL & BEACHES)
1. Children twelve (12) years of age and
under must be accompanied by an adult and must not be left unattended. The
adult-child ratio is a minimum of one adult per five (5) children.
2. No diving allowed.
3. Swimming shall be allowed only in
designated, buoyed off areas of the lake. Signs will be posted stating
"Swimming-Designated Areas Only." Swimming is prohibited in all other areas of
state park lakes.
4. No pets are
allowed in or around the swimming pool area or lake beach areas.
5. Lifesaving equipment is for emergency use
only; this includes ropes, buoys, flotation devices, etc. Swimmers must stay
off ropes at all times.
6. Only
appropriate swimwear will be allowed. Swimming suits are required. No cutoff
shorts and/or shirts will be permitted in swimming pools.
7. No running or horseplay allowed in
swimming area.
8. Alcoholic
beverages and illegal drugs are prohibited. Guests under the influence of
alcohol or drugs are not permitted in the pool or pool area.
9. Swimming pools and beaches are open during
posted times only. Any unauthorized use could result in criminal
charges.
10. No
electronic/radio-controlled boats or similar apparatus are allowed.
11. All posted rules and regulations must be
obeyed. (Posted rules and regulations may vary with individual
parks.)
12. All verbal commands by
lifeguards must be obeyed.
13.
Failure to obey any and all rules and regulations may result in loss of
swimming privileges with no refund. Continued abuse of rules and regulations
may result in permanent loss of swimming privileges at the park manager's
discretion.
14. Swim diapers are
required for infant swimming.
15.
Height and or age restrictions may be required at some pools or
attractions.
16. Pools, beaches,
and attractions will close during inclement weather. Only when management deems
that the danger has passed and it is safe to return will the pool or lake
reopen.
17. No refunds or Rain
Checks due to inclement weather.
18. No food, beverages, coolers or glass
containers allowed in or around a swimming area.
19. Weak swimmers must stay in shallow water.
If trained pool staff determine that a swimmer is not strong enough for a
particular area, that swimmer must stay in shallow water.
20. Water Safety Breaks shall be taken
throughout the day, as needed, depending upon risk management
factors.
M.
BOATING
1. Boaters must abide by
the Mississippi Boating Act of 1960 (including all revisions since its
adoption) and the Alcohol Boating Safety Act of 1995.
2. While operating a ski boat on state park
lakes, boats shall operate in a counterclockwise manner in a designated area.
There will be no jumping of wakes created by other boats and no
360's.
3. While operating a ski
boat or personal water craft on state park lakes, only one skier is permitted
to be pulled at a time. Two people are permitted on a tube if tube is certified
as for such. A child under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult 21
years or older. Tube kites are prohibited.
4. Motor boating, water skiing, and jet
skiing may be permitted in designated park lakes during designated times and
days, subject to the current posted boat size and motor horsepower limitations
for the respective parks and lakes. (Check with individual parks or lakes for
rules and regulations.)
5. On all
parks and state lakes, kite skiing is prohibited without the written permission
of the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries,
and Parks or his designee. (Check with individual parks for rules and
regulations.)
6. Racing of boats,
or operation of boats to give the appearance of racing, is prohibited without
the written permission of the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department
of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks or his designee. Continued behavior may
result in boater and/or boat being permanently banned from entering the park
lake.
7. No boat shall operate in a
loud, annoying manner as to disturb other park guest(s). Boater and/or boat may
be evicted from park without refund. Continued behavior may result in boater
and/or boat being permanently banned from entering the park lake.
8. Boats and jet skis must be operated at
idle speed, which is any speed that does not produce a wake, except during
skiing days in designated skiing areas.
9. Swimming and wading are prohibited on
State Park Lakes, except in designated areas.
10. All persons, born after June 30, 1980,
must have passed a boating education course approved by the MDWFP.
N.
DISC GOLF
1. Disc golf tournaments and events will be
scheduled at the park's convenience through the Park Manager or the manager's
designee.
2. During scheduled disc
golf tournaments and events, the disc golf course(s) will be closed to casual
play.
3. In addition to standard
park user fees, an additional fee of $3.00 per player will be imposed for disc
golf tournaments. This applies to all divisions with the exception of
juniors.
4. Disc golf tournament
directors must provide the park manager or the manager's designee a list of
prizes to be given away to the participants of the tournament or event for
approval prior to the awards presentation.
5. Disc golf tournament directors are
entrusted to use as many available park facilities and services as possible
such as overnight lodging and food service.
6. Disc golf tournament directors will
provide a written list of tournament sponsorships to the park manager at least
one week prior to the scheduled event for approval.
7. Disc golf tournament directors are
required to notify the park manager of any media coverage and/or promotional
flyers for their tournament. The park manager must submit a request for
approval to the Executive Director of MDWFP or his designee prior to the event
taking place and must receive permission prior to allowing any media coverage
or flyers to be done. Copies will be provided prior to granting
approval.
8. Individual parks may
allow night-time golf within designated hours.
9. Disc golf tournament directors must have
approval from the park manager or the manager's designee before any additional
courses, either temporary or permanent, or course alterations can be made.
Proposed alterations must be provided to management at least one month prior to
a scheduled tournament or event.
10. Disc golf tournament directors may not
schedule a tournament within two weeks of another state park tournament without
written consent from the managers of the parks with events in
conflict.
O.
PARK
PROPERTY
1. To destroy, cut, break,
remove, mutilate, injure, take, or gather in any manner any tree, shrub, plant,
rock, mineral, or historical artifact within a park property is prohibited
unless authorized by the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of
Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks or his designee.
2. No person shall throw, dump, or leave
papers, cans, bottles, or other rubbish anywhere in the waters, along the
roads, on picnic and camping sites, beaches, or any other lands or water of the
park except in the receptacles provided for such; nor shall any person use
trash receptacles for the placing of any refuse from private property in the
vicinity.
3. No person shall in any
manner injure, deface, disturb, destroy, disfigure, place indecent language
upon, or remove any part of a building, sign, wall, fence, tree, bench, or
other structure or natural rock within the park property.
4. No person shall bathe or wash dogs or
other animals; wash vehicles or clothing, throw, cast, lay or discard into or
leave any substance, matter or thing, liquid or solid, in the lakes, streams or
waters within or adjacent to park property which would pollute such
waters.
5. Except on fields and
areas provided for the purpose, no person shall play organized sports or any
games involving thrown or otherwise propelled objects such as balls, stones,
arrows, javelins, and model airplanes.
6. No person shall kindle, build, maintain or
use a fire other than in the places provided or designated for such purposes.
In seasons of unusual dryness or excessive fire danger, fires may be prohibited
anywhere within the park property by the park manager. Burn bans will be
enforced.
7. No person shall smoke
in any structure on park property. In seasons of unusual dryness or excessive
fire danger, smoking may be prohibited anywhere within the park property by the
park manager. Burn bans will be enforced.
8. No one shall construct or erect any
building or structure on state land or water; no one shall run string or
install any public service utilities without the written permission of the
Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and
Parks or his designee.
9. Access or
rights-of-way across state property is prohibited without the written
authorization of the Mississippi Commission on Department of Wildlife,
Fisheries, and Parks.
10. Pets are
allowed in designated areas only and shall be restrained on an adequate leash,
not more than six feet long. Pets that disturb quests will be removed from the
park. Persons with pets shall pick up and properly dispose of excrement
deposited by pets.
P.
VEHICLE USE
1. A rate of speed in
excess of 25 miles per hour is prohibited on any park road. In congested areas,
other posted limit will be enforced.
2. No owner or driver shall cause or permit a
vehicle to stand anywhere outside of designated parking areas except for a
reasonable time to receive and discharge passengers.
3. To operate a motor vehicle of any kind
while impaired by intoxicating liquors, narcotic drugs, or medication is
prohibited.
4. To drive any vehicle
on state park in disregard of the rights and safety of others, or to drive a
vehicle within or upon a safety zone, lawn, walk, bridle path, service road, or
any part of park property not designated for or customarily used for such
purposes is prohibited.
5. Vehicles
shall not be permitted in cabin or camping areas unless the operator thereof is
a registered guest or visitor of a registered guest within the area, and then
only to travel to and from the cabin or campsite assigned to such operator. The
number and type of vehicles allowed in overnight stay areas will be restricted
based on available parking as determined by park management.
6. Bicycles are permitted on state parks. All
bicycles shall be restricted from use after dark unless equipped with
functioning headlights and reflectors.
7. Cyclists shall not travel park or roads
more than two abreast and, if in large groups, must travel single
file.
8. The operation of off-road/
non-titled vehicles shall be in designated areas only.
9. Any operator of any vehicle motorized or
otherwise must comply with all applicable Mississippi laws.
Q.
GOLF CARTS, Limited speed
motor vehicles (LSMVs) and Electric Personal Assistance Mobility Devices
(EPAMDs)
1. Golf carts and LSMVs may
be used on campground roads only and may not exceed 20 mph. (LSMV is a
four-wheeled vehicle whose top speed is 20mph) Sidewalk and off road use is
prohibited.
2. EPAMDs may not be
operated at a speed greater than 7mph on any path, sidewalk, or trail and 15
mph on any campground road. EPAMDs are prohibited on main park roads.
3. Operators of golf carts, LSMVs and EPAMDs
must adhere to all applicable state laws. Operators of golf carts and LSMVs
must possess a valid driver's license or be a senior citizen. Only persons with
disabilities (of any age) may operate EPAMDs.
4. Occupancy may not exceed limits set by the
manufacturer.
5. Operator and
passengers must remain seated while vehicle is in motion.
6. No one may sit in the lap of the operator
or passenger.
7. Horn or other
audible signal must be used when approaching pedestrians from behind.
8. Golf carts, LSMV's and EPAMDs must be
equipped with functional headlights and tail lights to be operated at
night.
9. The use of motorized play
vehicles and any other motorized vehicle that is not a golf cart or LSMV or
EPAMD is prohibited.
10. Off-road
vehicles (ORVs) may only be used on parks with designated ORV trails.
R.
OFF ROAD VEHICLES (ORV)
AND HORSES
1. The Mississippi
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks or its employees shall owe no duty
of care to keep the premises safe for entry or use by others for recreational
activities or to give warning of any hazardous condition, use structure or
activity on the premises to person entering for those purposes. Given the
permission to pursue recreational activities on the premises shall not
thereby:
2. Extend any assurance
that the premises are safe for those purposes;
3. Make the person to whom permission is
granted an invitee or licensee to whom a duty of care is owed; or
4. Assume responsibility for or incur
liability for any injury to person or property caused by any act of persons to
whom the permission is granted.
5.
For the purposes of Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks an
Off - Road Vehicle (ORV) is defined as: Any non-motorized or motorized vehicle
which travels off-road for recreational purposes. ORVs include: motorbikes such
as mini-bikes, dirt bikes, motor cross bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
ATV, means any motorized vehicle manufactured and designed exclusively for
off-road use that is fifty (50) inches or less in width, has an unladen dry
weight of six hundred (600) pounds or less, travels on three (3), four (4) or
more low-pressure tires, has a seat designed to be straddled by the operator
and uses handlebars for steering control.
6. No all-terrain vehicle shall be operated
upon any public property by any person unless: they possess a valid driver's
license; or the person possesses a certificate of satisfactory completion of an
all-terrain vehicle safety course taught by an instructor possessing
qualifications approved by the Department of Public Safety (Miss. Code Ann.
§
63-31-3)
7. All persons operating or riding any ORV
upon any state park must wear a crash helmet that complies with minimum
guidelines established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
pursuant to the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 for
helmets designed for use by motorcyclists.
8. For the purpose of Mississippi Department
of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks accompaniment and accompanying shall be
defined as: A parent or guardian, within visual and voice contact and under the
effective control of minor child.
9. An ORV or horse owner, or another person
in possession of an ORV or horse, may not knowingly permit or authorize any
person under age 21 to operate/ride an ORV or horse in violation of state,
local, or State Park rules and regulations.
10. Any owner of an ORV or horse, any person
who gives or furnishes and ORV or horse to any person, and any parent or
guardian responsible for the care of a minor under 21 years of age shall be
liable for any damages caused in the operation of ORV'S or riding of horses by
the minor.
11. Both the owner and
the operator/rider of an ORV or horse may be held liable for the injury and/or
damages to others, state park property or wildlife resulting from an accident
and/or miss-use of an ORV or horse.
12. All ORV and horse riders users are to
have on file at the Park Office waiver consent of liability. (Good for calendar
year.)
13. All ORV and horse
riders/users are to register themselves and guest upon entry at Park
Office.
14. All ORV and horse rider
users are required to have one person at all times proof of age and/or photo
identification.
15. All ORV users
are required to have one person at all times user valid pass (Yearly or
Daily).
16. Persons less than 21
years of age but not less than 6 years of age, are required to have on file at
park office a Waiver Consent signed by parent or guardian in the presence of a
Park Staff Member or form must be signed by parent or legal guardian and
notarized if the minor driver is coming to ride within the park without their
parent or legal guardian in accompaniment. Persons (age 21 or above)
accompanying youth must also sign acknowledgment or responsibility (Good for up
to the Calendar Year, parents or legal guardian wanting one time use should
mark appropriately so on form.)
17.
Persons under age 6 are prohibited from operating or riding an ORV within Park
boundaries.
18. Safety gear -
Helmets (USDOT approved) must be worn at all times when operating an
ORV.
19. Anyone involved in an
accident/incident while operating an ORV on State Park Property is subject to
drug and/or alcohol testing.
20.
Reckless operation/riding, including but not limited to, wheelies, donuts,
jumps or other stunts, double riding (where not recommended by manufacture) or
operating an ORV at greater than reasonable and prudent speed for the existing
conditions is prohibited. Reckless Operation of ORVs is considered operating an
ORV in such a way as to recklessly create a substantial risk of serious bodily
injury to one's self, another person or property.
21. All ORVs, horses, must be on designated
trails. Use of public roads, park roads (paved) by ORVs and horses is
prohibited.
22. ORV Campground:
Cranking or idling of ORV's is prohibited between dusk and 8:00 AM. The use of
ORV's to travel to and from restrooms is prohibited.
23. ORV, Equestrian, Mountain Bike Trails are
to be operated from 8:00 AM to sunset only.
24. All ORVs must have a functioning spark
arrester.
25. All ORVs must have a
muffler(s) in working order.
26.
ORVs must not omit a noise while in operation of 90 decibels.
27. No ORV shall operate in a loud, annoying
manner as to DISTURB other park guests.
28. No washing of ORVs, horses, or mountain
bikes is permitted on park grounds.
29. No fluid draining or changing or any
vehicles visibly leaking fluids are allowed.
30. ORVs are not to be operated in a manner
which damages or unreasonably disturbs the land, wildlife, or vegetation. ORVs,
mountain bikes, and horses may not be operated/ridden in a tree nursery or
planting in a manner which damages or destroys growing stock or creates risk of
damage or destruction.
31. Riding
of passengers is prohibited except where your ORV is so rated for passengers by
the manufacture or as set forth by the USDOT. It is your responsibility to
produce the proof of this and have it on your person at all times.
32. ORVs must be operated while seated on the
permanent, regular seat except where provided by manufacture.
33. ORVs, mountain bikes, and horses may not
be operated/ridden in wetlands, streams or lakes.
34. Accidents/Incidents must be reported to
the park office in writing within 24 hours. Forms are obtainable at park
entrance gate. If you are incapacitated, the written report may be filed by
another party familiar with the accident/incident. However, that does not
relieve you of your legal responsibility to file this report.
35. Special events may be held only if: The
person in charge of any ORV, equestrian, mountain bike special event or
off-road competition must apply in writing to Trace State Park or the Director
of Mississippi State Parks for written authorization at least 30 days in
advance. Applicant must provide copy of liability insurance in the amount of
One Million Dollars for the event, covering the event organization, Mississippi
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks and its employees.
S.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND
NARCOTICS
1. Mississippi laws governing
intoxicating beverages will be enforced. The park manager, park ranger, or
other authorized personnel and any law officer with appropriate jurisdiction
shall have full authority to prevent the public sale, distribution, or
unreasonable use of alcoholic beverages by any person or group so as to
constitute a nuisance, disturbance, annoyance, or which may be repugnant to the
reasonable use of the park by any other member of the general public or in
violation of the laws of the State of Mississippi. The clubhouses at the state
park golf courses have been designated by law as qualified resort areas and as
such, are not subject to these regulations, but are subject to the state laws
and regulations of the State of Mississippi governing same.
2. All federal, state, and local laws
governing the illegal use, sale, distribution, or possession of any drug,
narcotic, or paraphernalia shall be strictly enforced.
3. No person shall enter or remain within the
confines of a park, or the property surrounding same while in a visible or
obvious intoxicated or drugged condition.
4. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on
state park lakes and in other designated areas.
T.
FIREARMS, FIREWORKS AND
EXPLOSIVES
1. Pursuant to the terms of
Miss. Code Ann. §
45-9-101, as amended, any person
who is not engaged in criminal activity, is not otherwise prohibited from
possessing a pistol or revolver under state or federal law, and is not in a
location prohibited under Miss. Code Ann. §
45-9-101(13), or
any person possessing a valid permit to carry a concealed handgun, as issued by
the Mississippi Department of Public Safety - or any state which Mississippi
recognizes as having reciprocal requirements for issuing such licenses - may
carry a handgun concealed upon his or her person while in or on any Mississippi
State Park.
2. Open carry of a
firearm may be restricted in certain sensitive areas of any Mississippi State
Parks. Sensitive areas will be designated by signage as described in Miss. Code
Ann. §
45-9-101. Any questions regarding
such areas may be directed to the Park Manager.
3. Pursuant to the terms of Miss. Code Ann.
§
97-37-1, a firearm is not
considered to be unlawfully "concealed" if it is carried upon the person in a
sheath, belt holster or shoulder holster or within any motor vehicle, nor is a
loaded or unloaded pistol or revolver carried in a purse, handbag, satchel,
other similar bag or briefcase or fully enclosed case, considered to be
"concealed." Any person going onto a State Park with a firearm in his or her
vehicle, camper, or conveyance, or a pistol or revolver in a sheath, belt
holster or shoulder holster or purse, handbag, satchel, other similar bag or
briefcase or fully enclosed case, should keep the firearm in a secured
condition, for the duration of their stay at the Park.
4. No provision of this regulation shall be
construed as to conflict with any applicable provision of statutory
law.
5. No person shall bring into
or have in the park or the property surrounding same any explosive substance,
such as dynamite, firecrackers, rockets, or torpedoes without the written
permission of the Executive Director or his designee.
U.
HUNTING AND FISHING
1. State parks are state wildlife refuges.
Hunting or trapping is prohibited within the confines of state parks except
Leroy Percy Wildlife Management Area and Natchez State Park. Regulations
governing hunting at these two parks are strictly enforced.
2. Except in water areas designated for other
usage, fishing is permitted in park waters with the appropriate license and
permits.
3. No trotlines, set
lines, jug fishing, or commercial gears are permitted on state park
lakes.
4. Night fishing (from 30
minutes before sunset to 30 minutes after sunrise) will be permitted from the
shore or from boats which are in compliance with State and Coast Guard
regulations. Only idle speed and trolling motors may be used.
5. All persons must abide by all state and
federal laws and all rules and regulations governing hunting and fishing,
promulgated by the Mississippi Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries and
Parks.
6. Only rod and reel or pole
fishing is allowed on State Park Lakes except that carp, gar, buffalo, and
bowfin may be taken by use of a bow and arrow at night only after purchasing a
valid permit for fishing and/or boating. No other gear is allowed at these
lakes.
V.
PERSONAL
CONDUCT
1. Disorderly conduct is
strictly prohibited. No person shall indulge in riotous, boisterous,
threatening or indecent conduct or abusive, threatening, profane or indecent
language.
2. No person shall commit
a nuisance, unreasonably disturb or annoy others, nor do any act amounting to a
breach of the peace. Any person committing obscene or disorderly acts or
otherwise creating a nuisance may be removed from the park by the Park
Manager.
3. No person shall operate
or use radios, phonographs, or other sound producing equipment in any area of
the park or lake, which is audible beyond the immediate vicinity so as to
disturb any other persons.
4.
Gambling is illegal in state parks or property surrounding same. All state laws
will be enforced. No person shall bring into the park or have in his possession
any implements or devices commonly used or intended for gambling
purposes.
5. No person shall use
comfort stations except in a clean and sanitary manner.
6. No person, except children six years of
age or younger, shall use the rest rooms designated for the opposite
sex.
7. No person shall commit any
obscene, indecent, unsanitary or offensive acts, such as urination or
defecation, in places not officially provided.
8. No person shall dress, undress, or
indecently expose his or her person in any area of the park where the same may
be seen by any other person.
9.
Scuba diving is permitted at such time(s) and in such areas as designated by
the park manager with verification of diver's certification. Appropriate dive
equipment must be used and dive flags must be visible during dive.
10. The park Manager, or representative may,
at his discretion, cause the removal or limit the stay of persons or vehicles
causing any disturbance or in any way creating a nuisance.
W.
GENERAL
1. These regulations are effective within and
on all state park lands under the jurisdiction of the Mississippi Department of
Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
2.
Disclaimer: Patrons using the facilities at any Park shall be responsible for
any loss or damage caused by the patron to such facilities. The MDWFP reserves
the right to pursue any legal means, whether civil and/or criminal, to recover
its losses or damages.
3. No person
shall disobey a lawful order of the Park Manager, or other authorized park
personnel.
4. No person shall
violate any posted limitations established by the park concerning hours and
areas during which recreation and other facilities will be open or accessible.
From 10:00 P.M. to 6:00 A.M. will be considered "quiet hours." During this
time, the park may be closed to the general public with the exception of
registered guests. (Check with individual parks for closing hours.)
5. No person shall sell or offer for sale any
merchandise, articles, or things, whatsoever, without the written consent of
the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries,
and Parks or designee.
6. No person
shall distribute any handbills, circulate, post, place, or erect any bills,
notices, papers, advertising devices, or matter of any kind without the written
consent of the park manager.
7. No
person shall solicit contributions for any purpose without the written consent
of the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries,
and Parks or designee.
8. No person
shall use, or gain admittance to or attempt to use or remain in a facility
within a park for which a charge is required without paying the fees. All fees
are payable in advance except for group camp lodging, meals and banquet meals,
which will require a deposit.
9.
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is authorized to
close parks, or portions thereof, on a seasonal basis, or for special events,
or on certain days of the week, or for exigent circumstances.
10. The park manager is authorized to close
the park under his supervision, or any portion thereof, at any time he
reasonably believes it necessary for the maintenance of peace, good order, or
the protection and safety of the persons or property in or upon the park or its
environs. The Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife,
Fisheries, and Parks or his designee will be notified prior to, but if not
then, immediately of any such action, and it shall be confirmed in
writing.
11. Upon closing of a
park, or portion thereof, the manager shall be required to remove all
unauthorized persons and their belongings from the park, or closed portion
thereof.
12. It shall be unlawful
for any unauthorized person to be in a state park, or a portion thereof, when
it is closed to the public by order of the park manager.
13. Personal Injuries or Accidents: The
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is not responsible for any
accidents or injuries to any persons while on state park property when using
state park facilities, except as provided for in Miss. Code Ann. §
11-46-1 through
11-46-23. Persons suffering an
injury or accident while on a state park or using the facilities of either
should file a notice of claim in writing addressed to the Executive Director of
the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. The notice of claim must
contain a brief statement of the facts and circumstances surrounding the
injury, extent of the injury, time and place the injury occurred, names of all
persons involved, amount of damages sought, and address of the person filing
the notice of claim.
14. Lost or
Stolen Articles: The Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks shall not be
responsible for any property or article lost, stolen, or damaged from any
cabin, camp pad, bathhouse, parking area, park, or facility.
15. No livestock or other animals, other than
horses on designated bridle paths or trails, will be allowed on state parks
except with written permission of the Executive Director of the Mississippi
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks or his designee. A copy of a
current Negative Coggins test is mandatory for each horse, and must be on file,
prior to unloading horses on state park lands.
16. No one shall use portable generators
without the permission of the park manager.
17. No one shall use metal detectors on any
Mississippi State Park. (See, Miss. Code Ann. §
39-7-4)
18. Except in an extreme emergency, the
operation of aircraft on land or water or the air delivery of any person or
thing by parachute, helicopter, hot air balloon or other means, without the
written permission of the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of
Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, is prohibited.
19. No person or group shall be given special
consideration or free services without the express written approval of the
Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and
Parks or his designee. Such authority will only be exercised under rare
circumstances.
20. Any park visitor
at a State Park may be asked if he or she has a criminal background including,
but not limited to, any felony convictions. The state parks are family-oriented
facilities. As such, there are usually children staying at the parks. Pursuant
to Miss. Code Ann. §
45-33-49, the Mississippi State
Parks have a duty to inform their patrons of the presence of registered sex
offenders on a state park. Any person who is a registered sex offender must
provide the Park with a notice of his or her status. Any registered sex
offender, who does provide the Park with notice of his or her status, may be
removed from the park or refused access to park facilities.
21. Rental units and campsites will not be
rented to any person under 21 years of age. Exception may be granted by the
Executive Director or designee.
22.
Note: All rules and regulations set forth above do not apply to Shepard State
Park which is being operated and maintained by the City of Gautier for the
State of Mississippi.
Notes
State regulations are updated quarterly; we currently have two versions available. Below is a comparison between our most recent version and the prior quarterly release. More comparison features will be added as we have more versions to compare.
No prior version found.