De Soto National Forest Travel Guide

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Trek Zone

National park

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Mississippi lies the enchanting De Soto National Forest, a natural haven that beckons travelers with its tranquil beauty and diverse landscapes. Spread across a sprawling area of over 500,000 acres, this national forest is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures and breathtaking sights.

As you step foot into De Soto National Forest, you are greeted by towering longleaf pines, their majestic presence casting a soothing shade over the forest floor. Hikers and nature enthusiasts will find themselves immersed in a world of winding trails, leading them through dense forests, babbling creeks, and vibrant wildflower meadows. The scenic Black Creek Trail, a favorite among locals, meanders alongside the crystal-clear waters of Black Creek, offering mesmerizing views and opportunities for swimming and kayaking.

For those seeking a more adrenaline-pumping experience, De Soto National Forest is home to an extensive network of off-road vehicle trails. Hop on your ATV or dirt bike and embark on an exhilarating journey through the forest, as you navigate through rugged terrains and conquer challenging obstacles. The thrill of the ride is perfectly complemented by the surrounding natural beauty, creating an unforgettable adventure.

Camping enthusiasts will find their slice of paradise within the boundaries of De Soto National Forest. With multiple campgrounds scattered throughout the area, visitors can choose to immerse themselves in the serenity of nature, sleeping under a canopy of stars and waking up to the melodious songs of birds. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your RV, the forest provides well-maintained facilities and amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

As you explore deeper into the forest, you will stumble upon hidden gems that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. The historic Leaf River Recreation Area, nestled on the banks of the Leaf River, offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved 19th-century mill ruins and picturesque picnic spots. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, bask in the tranquility of the surroundings, and let the whispers of history envelop you.

Alternative names: Elevation: 262 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 31°2'2"N, 88°58'60"W

Location

MississippiUnited States

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De Soto National Forest Top Attractions

De Soto National Forest Attractions - What to See and Explore

De Soto National Forest offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Leaf River Wildlife Management Area, Paul B Johnson State Park, Bottomland hardwood forest, Paul B. Johnson State Park. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Natural attraction • Protected area
Leaf River Wildlife Management Area
Leaf River Wildlife Management Area was established in 1940 out of land owned by the U.S. Forest Service. Located within the De Soto National Forest off Mississippi Highway 26 and east of Wiggins, Mississippi, it is composed of approximately 42,000 acres of pine forest.
Park
Paul B Johnson State Park
Paul B. Johnson State Park is a public recreation area on the shores of Geiger Lake, located off U.S. Highway 49 approximately 10 miles south of Hattiesburg, Mississippi. The state park is named after Paul B. Johnson, the forty-sixth governor of Mississippi.
Nature • Natural attraction • Forest
Bottomland hardwood forest
The Bottomland hardwood forest is a type of deciduous and evergreen hardwood forest found in US broad lowland floodplains along large rivers and lakes.

Day trips

De Soto National Forest – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of De Soto National Forest, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Mississippi Armed Forces Museum (Hattiesburg), MGM Park (Biloxi), Mississippi Aquarium (Gulfport).

18 milesNW
Military museum, Museum
Mississippi Armed Forces Museum, Hattiesburg
The Mississippi Armed Forces Museum, nestled in the heart of Hattiesburg, stands as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of American servicemen and women from all branches of the military. Located in Forrest County, Mississippi, this institution is dedicated...
44 milesS
Arenas and stadiums, Sport venue, Sport
MGM Park, Biloxi
MGM Park is a baseball park in Biloxi, Mississippi. The home of the Double-A Biloxi Shuckers of the Double-A South, it opened on June 6, 2015, and can seat up to 6,067 people. The stadium was the site of the 2019 Southern League All-Star Game.
46 milesS
Zoo
Mississippi Aquarium, Gulfport
Mississippi Aquarium is a nonprofit public aquarium located in Gulfport, Mississippi; it opened August 29, 2020. The 5.8-acre complex incorporates both indoor and outdoor habitats with more than 200 species of animals and 50 species of native plants.
44 milesS
Lighthouse
Biloxi Lighthouse, Biloxi
Biloxi Lighthouse is a lighthouse in Biloxi, Mississippi, adjacent to the Mississippi Sound of the Gulf of Mexico. The lighthouse has been kept by female keepers for more years than any other lighthouse in the United States. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and declared a Mississippi Landmark in 1987.
28 milesNW
Park-set zoo with animals and attractions
Hattiesburg Zoo, Hattiesburg
The Hattiesburg Zoo is a small 12-acre zoo located within Kamper Park in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, United States. The zoo is operated by the Hattiesburg Convention Commission. As of 2019, the Commission's executive director was Rick Taylor.