If you’re going to survive a brutal Mississippi summer, a great waterfront spot is essential. And if you’re not sure where to find such a place, you’re in luck. From incredible state parks to one-of-a-kind boat tours, here are 10 amazing places to spend the day on the water in Mississippi.
1. Lake Lowndes State Park (3319 Lake Lowndes Road, Columbus)
A recreational gem, Lake Lowndes State Park is home to a 150-acre lake that is perfect for everything from fishing to water skiing. The best part is a trip to this Columbus treasure won’t break the bank. The entrance fee is only $4 per vehicle and $.50 per person over 6 people.
2. Little Black Creek Campground (2159 Little Black Creek Road, Lumberton)
A great place to spend a hot summer day, Little Black Creek Campground is centered around a gorgeous 640-acre lake. After spending the day on the water fishing, canoeing, or kayaking, explore the campground, where you’ll be able to take part in a ton of activities that include everything from horseback riding to zip-lining.
3. Pascagoula River Audubon Center (5107 Arthur Street, Moss Point)
The Pascagoula River is the largest the largest (by volume) undammed river in the contingent 48 states and, thanks to the Pascagoula Audubon Center exploring the natural treasure is a breeze. Through interpretive exhibits, hands-on activities, and boat tours, you’ll have a ton of fun learning about the abundance of wildlife and plants that inhabit the river.
4. Seminary Falls (Okotoma Outdoor Post - 550 Walter Lott Road, Seminary)
These quaint falls are scattered about Okotoma Creek. A popular spot for canoeing and kayaking, the creek is lined with plenty of sandbars, making it easy to stop for a dip or picnic. Visit
Okotoma Outdoor Post for information on canoe/kayak rentals.
5. Acid Falls (near DSU - 1003 W. Sunflower Road, Cleveland)
Nicole Nielsen
One of Mississippi’s best kept secrets, Acid Falls is located Cleveland, not far from Delta State University. The perfect place to cool off during the summer, the waterfall has long been a favorite among locals. Be sure to pack a lunch because you’ll definitely want to spend all day at this spectacular site.
6. Ship Island (1040 23rd Avenue, Gulfport)
Thanks to
Ship Island Excursions ,
a ferry service that provides daily transportation to Ship Island, you can go on a tropical getaway without even leaving the state. Your journey begins at the Small Crafts Harbor in Gulfport, where you’ll purchase tickets and board the boat. After a short boat ride, you can spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming, or exploring the island’s fort.
7. Canoe and Trail Outpost (118 Dillons Bridge Road, Tylertown)
Since the water in Bogue Chitto moves at a slow pace, it’s one of the most popular tubing spots in the entire state. Book a float down the natural lazy river with a local company, such as
Canoe and Trail Outpost , which will provide everything you need to complete the 4-hour trek.
8. Eastport Grill (892 County Road 956, Iuka)
Located in Iuka, Eastport Grill is situated on Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River. In addition to amazing waterfront views, the restaurant offers mouthwatering burgers, which are said to be some of the best in the state. Don’t wait too long to visit this popular waterfront eatery; it’s only open during the summer, from May – September.
9. Horn Island (south of Ocean Springs)
One of the state’s lesser-known barrier islands, this tropical gem is perfect for everything from spending a relaxing day on the water to beachfront camping. And since there is no bridge or ferry running to the island, crowds aren’t the norm and peace and quiet is.
10. Biloxi Shrimping Trip (693 Beach Boulevard, Biloxi)
Shrimping is a major industry in Mississippi, and you can learn all about it on The Biloxi Shrimping Trip. Described as a "living marine adventure," the 70-minute cruise traverses the waters between Deer Island and the Biloxi shoreline. Upon leaving the harbor, a net is set out to catch all the sea creatures in its path. At the end of the cruise, the captain will identify the entire catch, which could include crabs, flounder, stingray, oysterfish, squid, and pufferfish, in addition to shrimp, of course.
Have you been to any of the places listed above? Know of another that should be added to this list? Tell us in the comments section!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.