12 Epic Adventures Every Mississippian Must Take Before They Die
By Daniella DiRienzo|Updated on June 07, 2023(Originally published June 02, 2023)
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
There’s no shortage of fun adventures in Mississippi, especially in terms of outdoor fun. And with so many great attractions, it can be hard to decide which to visit. Luckily, that’s where this list comes in. With everything from a treetop course and one-of-a-kind slide to several options for getting out on the water and some of the most epic hikes in Mississippi, it includes some of the best adventures in Mississippi – all of which should be on every Mississippian’s bucket list.
Grab a canoe or kayak and explore this historic river, which is steeped in so much history it’s been dubbed "a world renowned treasure trove of the Earth’s history." As you make your way along the 210-mile river, you’ll find varying terrains, a few waterfalls, and possibly some fossils. Check out our past article to learn more about this fun adventure in Mississippi.
2. Little Mountain Overlook
Jeff Busby Park, 305 Estes Rd, Ackerman, MS 39735, USA
Experience some of the best views in the state at this easy-to-reach overlook. Simply follow the trail straight to the top, where you’ll find incredible views that stretch for miles along with an informative exhibit. It's easily one of the most epic hikes in Mississippi.
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3. McClain Safari Park
McClain Resort, 874 Holly Bush Rd, Brandon, MS 39047, USA
Get up close and personal with an array of wildlife at this recently opened attraction. Located in Brandon, the park encompasses 60 acres and is home to nearly 30 exotic species from around the world! Visitors to the park can take part in everything from safari tours to feeding the animals. Want to know more? Check out our past article to learn more about this safari park in Mississippi.
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4. Betsy Ann Paddle Boat Cruise
Betsy Ann Riverboat, 100 Jody Compretta Dr, Bay St Louis, MS 39520, USA
For one of the best adventures in Mississippi, book a trip on the Betsy Ann, "one of America’s last remaining true sternwheel paddleboats." The charming boat from yesteryear offers a variety of tours, including sightseeing excursions and dinner cruises. For more information, check out our past article on this Mississippi adventure.
5. Institute for Marine Mammal Studies
Institute For Marine Mammal Studies, 10801 Dolphin Ln, Gulfport, MS 39503, USA
Head to this unique attraction and you can do everything from petting a stingray to swimming with dolphins. There’s also a variety of exhibits, presentations, and shows to keep visitors entertained. Learn more by checking out our past article at this unique attraction in Mississippi.
6. Dunn’s Falls Trail
Dunn's Falls Park, 6890 Dunns Falls Rd A, Enterprise, MS 39330, USA
Also among the most epic hikes in Mississippi, this trail starts off at the top of Dunn’s Falls – the state’s tallest waterfall. After taking in the magnificent views from the top of the fall, simply follow the staircase straight to the bottom for a new perspective on the 65’ waterfall. For more information, check out our past article on this waterfall hike in Mississippi.
Enjoy the great outdoors and relax all at once by booking an all-day tube trip with this outpost on the Bogue Chitto River. During the 4-hour float, you’ll come across several sandbars, so you can stop along the way to eat, catch some rays, or do some more relaxing. If you’re looking to exert a little more energy, canoes and kayaks are also available. Ready to embark on some of the best river tubing in Mississippi? Check out our past article on this Mississippi float trip.
8. Toomsuba KOA
Meridian East / Toomsuba KOA Journey, 3953 KOA Campground Rd, Toomsuba, MS 39364, USA
Far from a typical campground, this one includes a 550’ waterslide that winds through the trees for a thrilling adventure like no other. In addition to the slide, the grounds include RV and primitive sites, cabins, and a swimming pool. Learn more about one of the best adventures in Mississippi by checking out our past article.
Aside from selling and renting paddleboards, this Ocean Springs shop offers paddleboarding classes, lessons, and excursions for all skill levels. In fact, they promise to have you out on the water in minutes, whether you’re "eight or 80." Click here for directions and more information.
10. Gulf Coast Gator Ranch
Gulf Coast Gator Ranch & Tours, 10300 US-90, Moss Point, MS 39562, USA
At this Moss Point gem, you’ll have plenty of chances to get up close and personal with gators. In addition to walking tours, visitors can hop aboard an airboat for a high-speed adventure through the swamplands of south Mississippi. For more information, check out our past article on this unique ranch in Mississippi.
11. Bar-T Adventures
Pine Grove Road, Pine Grove Rd, Gautier, MS 39553, USA
This small-town gem offers a high-flying adventure like no other! In addition to a treetop obstacle course, there’s also a rock climbing wall and zip lines. When you're ready to take your next adventure to new heights, check out our past article on this adventure park in Mississippi.
12. Okatoma Outdoor Post
Okatoma Canoe Rental, 550 Walter Lott Rd, Seminary, MS 39479, USA
This local business has been facilitating canoe and kayak trips on Okatoma Creek for nearly 40 years, which many would agree easily rank among the best adventures in Mississippi. Convenient, too, they provide practically everything you need for a thrilling adventure on the water. Learn more by checking out our past article on this natural lazy river in Mississippi.
So, do you agree? Are these the best adventures in Mississippi? Have you been on any (or all) of the epic adventures listed above? Have some fun adventures in Mississippi to add to this list? Tell us!
The options above might be some of the best adventures in Mississippi, but they’re not the only adventures in Mississippi. So, when you’re ready for some more thrills, check out these fun adventures in Mississippi.
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More to Explore
Best Adventures In Mississippi
Daniella DiRienzo|June 07, 2023
What are the most epic hikes in Mississippi?
There are lots of great destinations for hiking in Mississippi. Here are a few spots that offer some of the most epic hikes in Mississippi:
Tishomingo State Park – Dubbed the best state park in Mississippi, Tishomingo State Park is a must-visit for those seeking a stunning hike. The park boasts several miles of trails, including the popular Bear Creek Outcropping Trail, which offers close-up views of the park’s massive rock formations and waterfalls. The loop trail is moderately challenging and offers stunning views of Bear Creek Canyon.
Clark Creek Natural Area: Another popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, Clark Creek Natural Area in Woodville is known for its unique landscape, which includes dozens of waterfalls. The park features both an improved trail and a primitive trail, each of which boasts stunning vistas.
Wall Doxey State Park – Located near Holly Springs, Wall Doxey State Park is the perfect place for some outdoor fun. The park’s Lake View Trail lives up to its name, offering close-up views of Spring Lake. The 2.8-mile loop trail is rated as easy to moderate.
What are the best options for river tubing in Mississippi?
There are several options for river tubing in Mississippi, including:
Wolf River: The Wolf River is a popular tubing destination – and for good reason. The river offers calm stretches, small rapids, and sandbars perfect for picnicking.
Chunky River: Boasting slow-moving waters, the Chunky River, near Meridian, offers a pleasant tubing experience.
Bogue Chitto River: Located near McComb, the Bogue Chitto River offers a variety of tubing options, ranging from tranquil sections to gentle rapids.