Camping Gems - Mississippi
Ocean Springs
Founded over 300 years ago, this historic town has transformed itself into a fun artists' colony. Wandering its live oak shaded streets you'll find great shops full of original paintings and pottery.
Oxford
This romantic getaway spot has its roots in Southern Literature. As the former home of William Faulkner and John Grisham -- and the current home of Ole Miss -- you'll find plenty of culture in Oxford. Take a side trip to John Kyle State Park Sardis Lake for the nature trails, swimming, water skiing, golfing, camping, bird watching, picnicking, and bass fishing.
Black Creek Trail, Desoto National Forest
Explore the beautiful Black Creek, Mississippi’s only National Scenic River. With 170 miles of trail open to hikers, ATV riders, mountain bike riders, and horseback riders, this is a fabulous place to play.
Ross Barnett Reservoir
Known to have some of the best fishing in the state, 30,000-acre Ross Barnett Reservoir is a fabulous place for angling. Join them for the June Waterfest and many other fun fishing events throughout the year.
Fort Massachusetts, West Ship Island
Since viewing this historic fort requires a one hour ferry ride to Ship Island, you'll want to make reservations a little in advance. This fort, constructed from 1859-66, was one of the last masonry coastal fortifications built in the US. During the Civil War it was held by Confederate forces. Touring here will give you a chance to see a 15-inch Rodman cannon, the stair tower, the shot furnace, and the Guardrooms. (228-875-9057)
Bethel ATV Trail
Ready to do some ATV riding? Then head to the DeSoto National Forest for a day on this 40-mile trail that winds through the piney woods of the Coastal Plain.
Mississippi Delta
With roots in Blues music and Southern charm, the beautiful Delta region has plenty to offer. Head there for incredible deep sea and Delta fishing, amazing restaurants, blues clubs, casinos and gaming, and superb bird watching.
Shepard State Park
Set in the heart of Singing River (Pascagoula River) country, this park has hiking and biking trails, fields of wildflowers, and gorgeous views of the river. The hiking here is fabulous -- the park has the only true Gulf Coast hiking trail in the Deep South.
Woodall Mountain
At 806 feet, this is the highest point in Mississippi. Head to the highpoint (just south of Iuka) and take the mile-long hike to the summit. This mountain has Civil War roots, a nice view, and a picnic area at the top.
J L Scott Marine Education Center & Aquarium, Biloxi
Learn all about the undersea creatures that populate the Gulf of Mexico at this Gulf Coast Research Laboratory. Here you'll find a 42,000-gallon main tank and 40 large aquariums plus a display and a video. (1535 Beach Blvd., Biloxi, 228-374-5550) |
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