Two Rivers Park | Little Rock

Ballard Park is a municipal park located in Tupelo, Mississippi.

The park features a central lake, walking paths, and open green spaces.

Visual Characteristics

The park's landscape is characterized by a 3-acre man-made lake with a concrete retaining wall. Surrounding the lake are approximately 20 acres of mowed grass, interspersed with mature deciduous trees, primarily oak and maple species. Paved walking paths, 6 feet in width, encircle the lake and extend throughout the park. A central pavilion constructed of wood with a metal roof provides covered seating.

Location & Access Logistics

Ballard Park is situated at 1000 South Green Street, Tupelo, Mississippi. It is approximately 2.5 miles south of the Tupelo city center. Access is via South Green Street, which connects to West Main Street. The park has a dedicated parking lot with approximately 50 asphalt spaces, including two accessible parking spots. Public transport is available via the Tupelo Transit System; the Route 3 bus stops at the intersection of South Green Street and West Main Street, a 0.2-mile walk to the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Ballard Park was established in 1968. The lake was created as part of the park's development, designed to manage stormwater runoff and provide recreational space. The surrounding land was previously agricultural. The park is classified as a managed urban green space.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include walking and jogging on the paved trails, fishing in the lake (catch and release is encouraged), picnicking at designated tables, and utilizing the playground equipment. The central pavilion is available for public use and can be reserved for events. Birdwatching is also a common activity due to the presence of various local avian species.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The park contains two public restroom facilities, located near the main parking lot and the playground area. Shaded areas are provided by mature trees and the central pavilion. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent throughout the park. No on-site food vendors are present, but several fast-food restaurants are located within a 0.5-mile radius on West Main Street.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) offers soft, directional light. Late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) also provides favorable lighting conditions. The best months for visiting are April through October, when temperatures are mild and vegetation is at its peak. The lake is accessible year-round for fishing, with no specific tide requirements.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the lake was once home to a large snapping turtle, though this has not been verified. The park is named after the Ballard family, who donated a portion of the land for its creation.

Nearby Landmarks

• Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo (1.8km Northwest)
• Elvis Presley Birthplace Museum (2.9km North)
• Tupelo Museum (3.1km North)
• Fairpark (3.5km North)