Wingfield Park | Reno

The MSU Drill Field is a large, open green space located on the campus of Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi.

Visual Characteristics

The Drill Field is a rectangular expanse of closely mown grass, approximately 15 acres in size. It is bordered on its longer sides by university buildings and on its shorter sides by campus roadways. The area is largely flat with a gentle slope towards the south. Mature oak trees are situated along the perimeter.

Location & Access Logistics

The MSU Drill Field is situated in the central part of the Mississippi State University campus. It is accessible from College Drive and University Drive. Parking is available in adjacent university lots, with restrictions typically in place during academic hours. Several campus bus routes serve stops near the Drill Field.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Drill Field originated as a training ground for military cadets during the university's early years. Its purpose was to provide a large, open area for drills and exercises. Ecologically, it is a managed grassland ecosystem within an urbanized campus environment.

Key Highlights & Activities

The Drill Field serves as a central gathering space for campus events, including graduation ceremonies and intramural sports. It is used for informal recreation such as frisbee and picnicking. The perimeter is suitable for walking and jogging.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located in adjacent campus buildings. Shade is provided by perimeter trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong across the area. Food vendors are not permanently located on the Drill Field itself, but are available within nearby campus facilities and off-campus establishments.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers optimal illumination. The most pleasant weather for outdoor activities typically occurs during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). There are no tide-dependent activities.

Facts & Legends

During the Civil War, the area was reportedly used for training Confederate soldiers. A local anecdote suggests that a specific oak tree on the western edge of the field was used as a whipping post, though this is unverified.

Nearby Landmarks

• 0.2km West: Mississippi State University Chapel
• 0.3km North: Mitchell Memorial Library
• 0.4km East: Dudy Noble Field (Baseball Stadium)
• 0.5km South: The Junction (Campus Recreational Area)
• 0.7km Southwest: Humphrey Coliseum (Basketball Arena)