French Camp, Mississippi

The town dates back to circa 1810, when a Frenchman, Louis Lefleur, established a "stand" (trading post and inn), on the Natchez Trace. Local people called it the Frenchman's Camp which was later shortened to French Camp.

Today, French Camp is the home of French Camp Academy.

In 1885 a group of Presbyterian missionaries established a school for girls at French Camp – the Mississippi Institute for Girls. Because of its success, a school for boys was started later that year, named French Camp Academy. In 1915, fire destroyed the girls’ school, and the schools were combined under the name “French Camp Academy.” A major change took place in 1950, when French Camp Academy (FCA) was reorganized under the direction of an interdenominational board of trustees. Since that time, FCA has grown to accommodate up to 170 boarding students, and provide a quality Christ-centered education and atmosphere.

With a population of about 175, the town is home to FCA graduates, as well as current staff and students. FCA owns and operates French Camp Historic Village - restaurant, museum, gift shop, bed and breakfast and other cabins and buildings depicting life when Louis Lefleur operated his stand at French Camp. Lefleur's carriage is on display at the Carriage House.

French Camp is located adjacent to the Natchez Trace Parkway at milepost 180.7 about 80 miles south of Tupelo and 80 miles north of Jackson.

Lost Gringos Coffeehouse

French Camp Historic Village

Barlow Blue

French Camp Bed and Breakfast

Rainwater Observatory

Click any photo to view larger photos.

Things to See and Do

• French Camp Historic Village - French Camp Historic Village sits alongside the Natchez Trace. Come discover how early American life used to be in this quaint log cabin village.
• Rainwater Observatory - Rainwater Observatory, the largest in the state, is located in one of the last remaining dark pockets left in the southeastern United States.
• Barlow Blue - Home of Tonya Barlow Jewelry. Plus - clothes, baby gifts, toys, monogrammed clothing, purses and wallets...
• Lost Gringos Coffeehouse - Lost Gringos is a full service specialty coffee shop that also provides ice cream treats, Italian sodas and teas.
• French Camp Academy - French Camp Academy, a Christ-centered home and school, exists to serve young people and families for the glory of God.

Places to Stay

• French Camp Bed and Breakfast

• Directions, Map, Dining and Area Attractions
• French Camp Festivals and Events
• Natchez Trace - French Camp Access / Exit Roads:
  • Mississippi Highway 413