Due to a lapse in federal funding, this USDA website will not be actively updated. Once funding has been reestablished, online operations will continue. On-going operational updates will be posted here (https://www.fs.fed.us/shutdown) as we are able to provide them.
What to Do?
Try something new or an old favorite.
What's most popular? Hunting and fishing of course!
The six National Forests in Mississippi provide excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation across the state. 1.2 million acres of forest land provide a diversity of terrain, diverse ecosystems, numerous lakes, rivers, and streams. In addition to hosting native plant and animal communities, forests are also rich in cultural history. USDA Forest Service land is spread across Mississippi, making the great outdoors quickly accessible to visitors. Discover all the popular water related recreation we have to offer. Swimming, boating, and warm water fishing are favorite pastimes. Picnic sites and pavilions near the water are available for small and large family gatherings. The Black Creek Scenic River provides a distinctive canoeing experience. Developed and dispersed camping areas provide overnight accommodations that support hunting, water-based recreation, and destination camping. The National Forests in Mississippi are also a major provider of recreational trails in the state. Approximately 265 miles of non-motorized hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails challenge visitors and provide great scenery. We also offer approximately 90 miles of designated motorized trails open to off-highway vehicles.
The Big Biloxi Recreation Area lies on the banks of the Big Biloxi River. The area provides a cool, refreshing experience from cities nearby. Facilities include 25 camping units, all with utility hook ups; a picnic area with a pavilion; bath house with hot showers; dump station; and a 1/2-mile nature trail. The river is an excellent place to fish for bream, bass, and catfish.
Big Biloxi Recreation Area is open year-round unless weather conditions require the area to be closed. This is a fee area and the fee station is located just beyond the entrance gate. There is a camp host on duty, however, users should make sure that they have correct currency before arriving at the recreation area. Please contact the De Soto Ranger District Office at (601) 528-6180 for the current fees.
Marathon Lake is a 50-acre lake located in Smith County. It got its' name from Marathon Lumber Company which closed in 1929. You will enjoy the beauty and seclusion of this quiet campground located approximately 15 miles southeast of Forest, MS and 25 miles northeast of Raleigh, MS. Marathon Recreation area is equipped with 34 camping sites (with water and electric hook-ups), boat ramp, swimming area, 2 bath houses (warm showers), picnic shelters, picnic tables and a hiking trail. The lake has been stocked with catfish, bass and crappie and is open to bream fishing. A dump station is available. The area has a volunteer Campground Host on site most of the time.
