If you're really looking for a challenge, try the Black Creek Trail. This 41-mile hike is definitely a stretch for an intermediate hiker, but it's relatively easy terrain. Keep in mind this is not a loop, so either plan to have a car take you back to your starting point or double back once you get about halfway.
The Tanglefoot Trail is a Mississippi Rails to Trails conversion, meaning it was originally a railroad that is now a hiking trail. In fact, the original railroad was built by Col. William Clark Faulkner, grandfather of the famous author. The total length of the trail is 43.6 miles, but of course, you aren’t expected to tackle the whole thing! With plenty of changing scenery—including fields, wetlands, and six communities—this hike should keep you energized the whole time.
The hiking area at Ethel Vance Natural Area (or Vance Park as it's known locally) is about 13 miles of varying terrain. Perfect for an intermediate hiker, most of the trail is an easy walk, but you'll find some hills and plenty of beautiful scenery to keep you interested and energized throughout your hike.
Traveling there and back, the Tuxachanie Trail is miles of ridges, wetlands, and forest. The Tuxachanie is another trail that follows an abandoned railroad. Scenery includes live oaks, pitcher plants, creeks, ponds, and wooden footbridges. Be aware that a short section of the trail is also a horse trail.
At Clark Creek Natural Area, you can choose between a primitive trail or a more modern "improved" trail. For an exciting intermediate hike, give the primitive trail a shot. The trail is 2.6 miles-long and usually takes about three hours to complete. And you'll get a huge rush when you come across the waterfall on this route!
]]>Shockaloe Trail in the Bienville National Forest is the longest single-loop hiking trail in the state. The trail is nearly 23 miles, although it crosses service roads, allowing you to shorten the loop if you prefer. Be aware that Shockaloe is also used as a horse trail.
The campgrounds at Shepard State Park are the perfect place to get away and enjoy nature. The park offers eight miles of trails that sprawl along the grounds, giving campers the opportunity to explore the land, seeing everything from beautiful wetlands to awe-inspiring oaks.
The Marathon Lake Recreation Area is a quiet campground near Raleigh. The lake is stocked full of fish and there are plenty of camping grounds, so you might just decide to stay the night and hike the short trails more than once!
Fontainebleau Nature Trail is made up of two paths, a .75-mile loop and a half-mile there-and-back trail that extends past the loop. Visitors will enjoy beautiful bayou hiking located in the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge. There's even an overlook to observe Davis Bayou!
At less than two miles, the Arkabutla Lake Education and Nature Center Trail (ARK) is an easy hike that the whole family can enjoy. These woodland walking trails take about an hour to navigate and offer beautiful views of Arkabutla Lake along with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings!
]]>Trace State Park is located near Tupelo in Belden, Mississippi. According to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks (MSDWFP), Trace State Park contains 35 miles of trails which are accessible to motorcycles and ATVs. Be sure to sign a release first!
MX886 is a dirt track in Pontotoc, Mississippi, which is open the first and third weekend of every month. The track offers a variety of obstacles like jumps and different types of dirt for riders of varying experience. In addition, the track holds regular races for the Midsouth Motocross Championship Series.
The track at Meridian’s Dirty Deeds is suitable for all skill levels and bike sizes, so all dirt bikers will feel at home. Riders applaud the track for having some of the very best dirt in the state, excellent elevation changes, and a friendly and helpful staff.
While primarily used by ATV riders looking to go mudding, Mudslangers makes for a prime location for off-roaders of the dirt biking variety too! This “recreational paradise” features an abundance of trails, mud holes, and even primitive camping if you decide to make a whole trip of it! Mudslangers is a huge local favorite with a die-hard community supporting it.
Raine or shine, Crossroads ATV & Recreation Park in Clinton is open every weekend! From 9 a.m. until dark, you can start up your dirt bike and tear through the well-maintained trails at Crossroads. Be sure to check out the rules and regulations before you head out, to ensure that you and other riders stay safe during your time on the trails.
The Meridian Motorcycle Association (MMA) has one focus, and that’s “to unite off road riding enthusiast through MMA member events, cookouts, race events, and social gatherings.” At Meridian OHV Park, it’s not just about the ridging, it’s about the strong sense of community. At this park, riders will find an impressive selection of trails of varying difficulties. Be sure to pay attention to the signs and follow the rules!
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Tanglefoot Trail is 43.6 miles, so it's best to pick a section if you're planning on hiking, but this beautifully-maintained trail is worth a visit. The Tanglefoot Trail was originally a railway, and conversion to a trail was completed in 2013. It travels through six towns, so visitors have a chance to explore some beautiful communities they might not otherwise see.
Natchez Trace is made up of five separate trails for a total of 60 miles. The trail’s total length, which extends from Mississippi to Tennessee, is around 450 miles. If you’re carting along some less experienced hikers, it’d be ideal to traverse the Blackland Prairie Section of the trail, which is generally not too crowded and is 12.5 miles (back and forth). Trekking through this area, you’ll be gifted with some scenic river views. This particular hike is ideal for all levels of skill, and you can bring the dog along too!
This excellent trail is about 12 miles in length, and travels through Mississippi’s Desoto National Forest. Traverse through swamp-like areas. See pitcher plants, palmettos, and the rare wild orchid, in all their glory. On the western portion of the trail, about a quarter-mile stretch is a hard-packed surface, making it wheelchair accessible.
Experience some truly immaculate beauty hiking at LeFleur’s Bluff. The hiking trail is approximately 2.5 miles and is situated among 365 acres of enchanting woodland. Enjoy the serene beauty of the bluffs and nearby streams that lead to Mayes Lake. If you want to spend some more time immersed in the beauty of the park, consider camping, fishing, or having a picnic.
Tishomingo covers 1,530 acres of land and is characterized by its stunning rock formations. Take in the sights of magnificent cliffs and valleys as you hike this 13-mile trail. Not only can you appreciate the geologic beauty of this park, but also the incredible flora and fauna. Here, you will find hundreds of species of fern, wildflowers, wild turkey, hawks, owls, and more.
]]>The Kitty Bryan Dill Memorial Parkway is a 3.75-mile trail running through West Point, Mississippi. The surface makes this a good track for running, and since the path connects five parks throughout the city, there's plenty of scenery to enjoy.
The six-mile loop at Butts Park is a popular choice for trail running. The area was originally home to a German POW camp during World War II. The natural-surface trails here are well-maintained, but runners should be aware that the trail is shared by mountain bikers, so stay alert.
Several of the trail options at Clark Creek make for an excellent running location. There are about 1.78 miles of improved trails in this area and 2.6 miles of primitive trails. Choose which one of these suits your skill set, depending on your level of endurance and ambition. Be sure to check the trail map before heading out!
The trails at Bonita Lakes are also highly recommended for a nice run. This city-owned park features three lakes, including Long Creek Reservoir. The area is relatively primitive and features lovely nature trails, a running/walking track, horseback riding opportunities, picnic areas, and much more.
Located in Tishomingo State Park, the CCC Camp Trail is a true delight to runners. Venture across springs, streams, and intricate rocky outcrops. Peep wildflowers, ferns, and abundant wildlife along your journey, too. The trail is approximately three miles in length.
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Likewise, bass fishing is starting to pick up again as the weather begins to cool. Huge schools of threadfin shad are starting to filter away from open-water ledges into bays and tributaries where feeding conditions and water temperatures are more optimum.
Bass follow the food, first setting up on ledges at the mouths of inlets and creeks to waylay shad, then migrating back toward shallower water to keep up with their quarry.
Fall Script for Southern Bass
Bass rule in Dixie and cooler weather brings out an army of anglers who go after them. Whether largemouth, smallmouth or spotted bass, they’re available in most waters and sometimes all three varieties are present in a fishery, ready to aggravate or gratify those who seek them.
Hot Spots To Fish: When it comes to the South’s best lakes for fall fishing, the big TVA impoundments fit the bill. Because this is bass tournament country, dozens of YouTube videos and Facebook sites of pro anglers offer useful advice on where and how to catch autumn largemouths. Likewise, guide services are plentiful; just Google “fishing guides” for the lake you’re visiting or type in the town nearest the lake you wish to fish on the interactive map on this page.
Tackle You’ll Need: A 7-foot medium/heavy rod such as the St. Croix Premier Cranking, a baitcasting reel like the Abu Garcia Revo Winch and 10- to 14-pound-test monofilament makes a good combination to fish downsized lures.
Quick tip: This is strictly a match-the-hatch deal. Use lures that are about the same size as wandering shad. If young-of-the-year threadfins are on the bass menu, try small swim baits fished on drop-shot rigs.
Best Lures/Baits: Shad-colored, shallow- and medium-diving square-billed or coffin-billed crankbaits are autumn standouts. Popular lures include the Strike King 6XD, Bandit 100 or 200, Duo Realis M65, Livetarget Magnum Shad BaitBall Squarebill, Megabass S-Crank, Lucky Craft Squarebill 2.5, Storm Arashi and Rapala Shad Rap.
Fish them around shoreline cover and on the flats between creek drop-offs and the bank. Other fallback baits include spinnerbaits like the Booyah Super Shad, Stanley Vibrashaft and Nichols Pulsator. Good buzzbait options can be found from Lunker Lure, Damiki, Santone and Dirty Jigs.
Find the best fishing spots near you:
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Rendezvous With Redfish
Along the northern Gulf Coast from Carrabelle, FL, to Grand Isle, LA, the redfish season begins in late September and continues in stages through December. Some anglers fish in the surf with cut bait, while others station themselves on area piers or in boats on relatively shallow flats near channel cuts.
Hot Spots To Fish: For boating anglers, a couple of spots stick out. Pensacola Bay Pass is a must-fish for boaters. Anchor up on the broad flat between old Fort Pickens and the channel, set out lines as the tide changes to incoming, and hang on. Need more help? Redfish University Pensacola Fishing Charters (850-748-4368, redfishuniversity.com) specializes in the big drum.
At Grand Isle, LA, book a trip with Gotta Go Fishing Charters (225-921-3642, gottagofishingcharters.com). The marshes and inshore waters around Venice, LA, are primo redfish haunts as well. Captain Mike Frenette (504-782-0924, laredfish.com or ([email protected]) is a top guide here.
Tackle You’ll Need: “Rat” reds of 3 pounds and up, or real bruisers weighing in excess of 20 pounds require a range of tackle options. Bass fishing tackle – whether spinning or baitcasting – is perfect for handling smaller fish and for casting jigs or swimbaits that weigh less than an ounce. A Shimano Stradic spinning reel and 7-foot medium-action Shimano Compre rod with 14-pound-test monofilament.
For bigger fish, consider a Penn Battle II BTLII5000 with 20-pound-test monofilament or 40-pound-test braid, and a 30-pound-test fluorocarbon leader. A 7-foot medium-heavy spinning rod (such as the Penn Battalion BATIN1220S70) should handle any bait rigs or lures and wear down a bull redfish in short order.
Quick Tip: Incoming tides in late evening or at night are primo times for reds as the fish free-spawn then in the mouths of coastal bays and estuaries. If you can’t fish any other time, make sure you fish the incoming tides.
Best Lures/Baits: Redfish aren’t particular about their dietary requirements and will eat anything from blue crabs to halved mullet. Swimming spoons such as the Johnson Sprite (johnsonfishing.com), swimbaits and jigs or even topwater poppers, such as the Heddon Saltwater Spook, will elicit strikes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish
Tishomingo State Park is one of the best areas in the state for rock climbing. This is one area where permits are required, so keep that in mind before you go. To get to Jean's Overhang, cross the Swinging Bridge, then turn right and hike down a short trail. Routes here include Ankles Away, Black Crack, Heart Ache, and Mental Block.
Corn Flakes, also called Cornflakes Buttress, is also located in Tishomingo State Park, and this is one of the most popular climbing areas in the state. To get to Corn Flakes, continue hiking south of Jean's Overhang and past a small waterfall. Corn Flakes is home to routes including Slip-N-Slide, Mississippi Women, and Mad Dog.
If you’re looking to hone your skills indoors, the Hangout is your spot. This gym provides a perfect space to improve your abilities in case you decide to travel to a more mountainous state for some outdoor climbs. The Hangout features two walls for bouldering with a connecting overhang.
]]>LeFleur's Bluff State Park is nearly 500 acres in the heart of Jackson, and the park is full of trails and boardwalks which are perfect for viewing woodland birds. There is a nest box trail to showcase prothonotary warblers, and birders can also seem Acadian flycatcher, wood thrush, summer tanager, and more. The park also includes the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science which conducts ornithological research.
Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge features a four-mile round-trip trail that runs alongside the Noxubee River. Birds which are commonly found include the Kentucky warbler and LeConte's sparrow, as well as a number of ducks and geese during the winter. The park is also a habitat for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.
St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge is a sprawling 25,000-acre refuge that has two nature trails—the 8.3-mile Magnolia Trail and the 2.2-mile Cabin Road Hiking Trail (which is also an ATV trail). The refuge was created to protect the waterfowl who use the area as a habitat. There have been 247 documented bird species that have been observed at the refuge, and there's a list available from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service so you can keep track of which ones you've seen.
The Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) covers 18,000 acres of bayous, salt marshes, and savannas. The wetlands here are mostly brackish, and the environment here is extremely diverse, giving birdwatchers incredible opportunities to see various species. Follow the Savanna Trail Boardwalk and see the American white pelican, brown pelican, osprey, reddish egret, and more.
The Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge is another opportunity for bird lovers to see some spectacular wetland birds. There are two trails, the C.L. Dees Nature Trail and the Fontainebleau Nature Trail. This is the only place in the world to see the Mississippi sandhill crane—there are only 120 of the birds living in the refuge.
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The Little Mountain Trail in Jeff Busby Park is located off of the famous Natchez Trace Parkway near Ackerman, Mississippi. Little Mountain is one of the highest elevations in the state, and on a clear day you can see out about 20 miles. This is the perfect spot to see a variety of colors as the weather starts to change.
Homochitto National Forest is a sprawling protected area about halfway between McComb and Natchez. The Clear Springs Trail system is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of a spring-fed lake and surrounding foliage.
Easily one of the most beautiful parks in the state, hiking options are plentiful at Tishomingo State Park. The park has won 12 national awards and has been named the “Best Hiking Trail in Mississippi.” You'll be astonished at the variety of flora you find here!
Wall Doxey is a public area in North Mississippi near beautiful Spring Lake. The Wall Doxey State Park Nature Trail is a 2.5-mile loop around the lake. It's rated as an easy hike, making it perfect for taking the family to spot the colors as the leaves begin to change.
The Shockaloe Trail at Bienville National Forest is a 23-mile trail winding through dense Mississippi forest. Service roads allow you to shorten the trip, but why not bring a tent and camp along the way? You'll be able to experience the foliage of South Mississippi up-close and personal!
]]>The campgrounds are well-appointed at Lake Lincoln State Park, with a bath house, laundry room, playground, boat launch, hiking and biking trails, and excellent fishing. Located just northeast of Brookhaven (and south of Jackson), Lake Lincoln State Park is the perfect place to watch the leaves fall.
The beautiful Clear Springs Recreation Area is located on an eight-acre lake in the Homochitto National Forest. This campground is secluded, making it the perfect place to get away from it all and relax. This isolated campground includes hiking trails, hot showers, a playground, and more.
The Blue Bluff Campground and Recreation Area is located near Aberdeen on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, offering plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, and other water sports. The real draw, though, is the clay and limestone bluff overlooking beautiful Aberdeen Lake—the perfect spot for a view of the beautiful fall colors.
For a family trip that's as rich in history as it is natural beauty, there's no rival for Grand Gulf Military Park. This landmark is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it commemorates the early Mississippi town of Grand Gulf, an important location occupied by Union troops during the Civil War.
North Mississippi is the perfect place for viewing fall colors. George P. Cossar State Park is a sprawling area tucked into the trees, with 83 campsites and amenities including a putt putt golf course and an 18-hole disc golf course. Enjoy fishing on beautiful Enid Lake—the world record for crappie was caught right here!
]]>Grenada Lake was created by the Army Corps of Engineers as a flood control lake on the Yalobusha River. The area is known as a particularly good spot to find crappie, but anglers also find bass, bream, and catfish in the waters. Set up camp in Hugh White State Park for a real outdoors experience.
Lake Tangipahoa is a 490-acre lake in Percy Quin State Park southwest of McComb. It is formed by the Lake Tangipahoa Dam, which was built on the Tangipahoa River in 1940. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks reports that the crappie and bluegill are especially well-sized, but bass and catfish fishing are also popular here.
The Okhissa Lake is a beautiful 1,075-acre lake located in the sprawling Homochitto National Forest. Okhissa Lake holds the unique distinction of being the first lake in the country endorsed by legendary bass fisherman Bill Dance, who was involved in developing the fishing habitat.
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Pickwick Lake is a reservoir in Mississippi's northeastern corner, and it joins Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. Fishermen here often find black bass, crappie, catfish, and paddlefish. Even if you don't catch anything here, the scenery will be worth the day spent on the water!
Located in Lafayette, Panola, and Marshall counties, Sardis Lake covers an amazing 98,520 acres on the Little Tallahatchie River. Anglers will enjoy fishing for catfish, crappie, and bass. In fact, many say that Sardis Lake boasts some of the best crappie fishing in the state. You won’t want to miss out on the abundant opportunity provided by this incredible lake.
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Red Creek Off Road provides you with plenty of trails to run, from sandy roads to muddy bottoms. There's plenty of available lodging to accommodate anywhere from 2-20 people, so plan to stay for a day or two. Be sure to keep an eye out for special events!
Burden's Creek is located on a 400-acre park, so you and your friends will have plenty of privacy as you explore the trails. They're open seven days a week, so it's always the perfect time to head out to Burden's Creek. There's even a concession stand for when you get hungry.
Rocks Bottom in Forest is made up of 30 miles of trail spanning a breathtaking 550 acres. Although you're not far from Jackson, you'll feel like you're in the middle of nowhere as you trek through the swamplands at Rocks Bottom. Feel free to camp on-site!
Another Jackson-area park, Crossroads in Clinton is 170 acres of mud-riding fun. They have areas which are specific to both motocross and ATV riders, along with primitive camping, a snack bar, and a beautiful lake. They're only open on weekends, so plan accordingly!
Warfield Point Park is one of the Mississippi Delta's best places for ATV-style mud bogging. Warfield Park offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River as you cruise along the natural ridges created by the water. In addition, Warfield Park offers rider safety classes.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>To kick off your adventure, you need to have a good breakfast. The Sawmill Family Restaurant in Wiggins is a family-owned buffet restaurant that's been serving up home-style cooking for nearly 20 years. A rustic home-cooked meal is the perfect start for a day out in the woods!
After breakfast, it's time to hit the trails. About half an hour south of Wiggins you'll find the Park New Beginnings, formerly known as Muddy Joe's. This is a family-friendly destination in Perkinston featuring ATV trails, bogs, pits, and more. If you get tired of getting dirty, the park also includes a clubhouse, saltwater pool, video arcade, and more. They regularly have fun events like concerts, benefits, and mud races, so check their schedule!
This is the ultimate spot to fuel up after a long day of riding. Herrin’s features everything from seafood platters, to po’boys, to hot dogs, to delicious milkshakes. Try the classic catfish or shrimp po’boy for a truly traditional Southern bite. You will leave here full and satisfied.
Lazy Magnolia Brewery is the oldest craft brewery in Mississippi. Take a tour and see how their famous brews are made, or just hang out and sip a couple of Southern Pecans or Jefferson Stouts in their taproom, known as the Porch. This is a great way to unwind.
It’s time to rest your head for the night. After a long day, you can count on Econo Lodge to be reliable and comfortable. A stay here includes free Wi-Fi, a free continental breakfast, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a picnic area.
]]>This charming downtown hiking shop will make you feel right at home as you shop some of the best brands the trails have ever seen. In business for over 60 years, the folks here are truly dedicated to hikers’ needs, and know the area well so you can cash in on their experience to make the most of your trip. Choose from top brands like Chaco footwear, Patagonia, and KAVU, among other top quality names.
Dedicated to helping their communities get outside, Buffalo Peak practices what they preach. When you enter their store, you can be assured you’re dealing with fellow hikers who are just as passionate about the trails as you are. They carry popular names in hiking like KEEN, the North Face, and CamelBak, to name a few.
Whether it’s zero degrees, a hundred degrees, or somewhere in between, Cozy Outfitters has you covered with high-quality apparel and gear for your next hiking trip. They can help you outfit from head to toe to ensure you’re never too hot or cold on the trails. Plus, you can count on only the best names in outdoors, including Gerber knives, Columbia clothing, and Streamlight flashlights.
This place is everything a hiking store should be, right down to its cheerful exterior and friendly service. Dedicated to all things hiking and backpacking, the folks here know what area hikers need and have assembled an extensive collection of clothing, bags, and gear to make every day on the trails a successful one. The staff here are also charmed by the great outdoors and spend much of their own time hiking and exploring. They’ll help you find the best brands at good prices, including their lines of Black Diamond, Southern Marsh, and Mountain Hardwear.
With multiple stores throughout Mississippi, you’re likely to find all the basic gear and apparel you need for your next trail adventure. Their national brand and widespread network means you can count on popular brands like the North Face, Yeti, and Magellan to complete your adventure.
Located right in the heart of Tupelo, CORE is the area's favorite outdoor store. Although bicycles are their forte, hence the name, they carry everything from fly fishing essentials to rock climbing equipment. As for hiking gear, they don't fall short in any category. Their range of items and brands is extensive, so be prepared to see many familiar brands while also being introduced to new ones. If the site of all of the outdoor gear is getting you eager for some activity, there's a rock climbing wall right in the store to use at your leisure!
At 601 Sports, you’ll find all varieties of footwear, outdoor apparel, hunting gear, and more. For great hiking footwear, you’ll find brands like Merrell and KEEN. For outdoor apparel, find products from Patagonia, Carhartt, and the North Face.
]]>A trip to Tishomingo is like stepping back in time—way back, since the artifacts found in this area date back to 7000 B.C. Today, the moss-covered boulders, waterfalls, and lush greenery make it easy to imagine what life was like back then, sparking the imaginations of kids and parents alike! Be sure to visit the swinging bridge.
Located near the heart of Jackson, LeFleur's Bluff is a surprising escape from modern life. Set up at one of the 28 tent facilities, then enjoy either of the two playground areas, the hiking trail, picnic areas, and both regular and disc-golf. While you're there, drop into the Mississippi Natural Science Museum, which is located within the state park.
Paul B. Johnson is located in the Pine Belt, so you're already in a remote area before you ever reach the campground. Stay in a tent, cabin, or cottage, and enjoy plenty of space to boat, fish, and swim, as well as football fields, disc golf, and a splash pad the kids will love.
Sardis Lake Recreation Area is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots in the state of Mississippi. Sardis Lake is a sprawling body of water that covers 98,000 acres, and with nine campgrounds surrounding the picturesque lake, there's plenty of room for everyone. Be sure to pick a spot near one of the playgrounds!
Surrounding a 640-acre lake and providing guests with an abundance of activities, Little Black Creek is a perfect family getaway. Book one of the campground’s many rustic cabins with stunning lake-side views. Enjoy fishing, swimming, camping, biking, kayaking, and picnicking to round out the day of activities. The kids will enjoy every minute of it.
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