Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield

From Tupelo, MS (15 mi): Take US-45 N to MS-370 W in Baldwyn, then drive 6 miles west to the battlefield site at the intersection of Bethany Road and MS-370.

Overview

The Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site preserves the location of a significant Civil War clash that occurred on June 10, 1864. Despite being outnumbered, Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest led his troops to a tactical victory over Union forces under General Samuel Sturgis. The battle was fought to protect the vital Nashville-Chattanooga railroad, a key supply line for Union General William T. Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign. Today, the site features a one-acre memorial with monuments and interpretive signage, offering visitors a glimpse into the strategic maneuvers and intense combat that defined the engagement.

Although the battlefield itself is modest in size, the surrounding area includes preserved land and trails maintained by local and state organizations. The nearby Mississippi’s Final Stands Interpretive Center provides a deeper understanding of the battle’s context and consequences, with exhibits, a short film, and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the rural landscape where the battle unfolded and reflect on the broader implications of this Confederate victory that ultimately served Union strategic goals. The site is a quiet yet powerful destination for Civil War enthusiasts and history-minded travelers alike.

Things to Do

Explore the Battlefield

Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield preserves the site of the June 10, 1864 Civil War battle in which Confederate forces under Major General Nathan Bedford Forrest defeated a larger Union force commanded by Brigadier General Samuel D. Sturgis. Visitors can explore the battlefield and learn about one of the most studied tactical victories of the Civil War.

Visit the Interpretive Center

The nearby interpretive center features exhibits, artifacts, maps, and educational displays that explain the events of the battle, the commanders involved, and the significance of the engagement within the larger context of the Civil War.

Drive the Battlefield Tour Route

A self-guided driving tour allows visitors to follow key troop movements and explore important battle locations throughout the battlefield landscape. Interpretive markers help explain how terrain, weather, and military strategy influenced the outcome of the battle.

Top Trails

Brices Cross Roads Battlefield Walking Trail

Length: Approximately 1.0 mile round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy

This interpretive walking route explores portions of the preserved battlefield and provides visitors with an overview of troop movements, combat actions, and the strategic significance of the site.

Tishomingo Creek Interpretive Walk

Length: Approximately 0.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy

Visitors can walk near Tishomingo Creek and surrounding battlefield areas while learning about the landscape that played a critical role in the battle's outcome and the movement of Union and Confederate forces.

Sources: National Park Service official Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield information, including battlefield history, interpretive resources, driving tour information, visitor facilities, and educational exhibits. https://www.nps.gov/brcr/index.htm Additional battlefield history and visitor information verified through National Park Service planning and interpretive resources. https://www.nps.gov/brcr/planyourvisit/index.htm https://www.nps.gov/brcr/learn/historyculture/index.htm