With Tennessee to the north, Alabama to the east, Louisiana to the west, and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, Mississippi is a state in the nation’s southeast. It is renowned for its extensive history, varied cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings. The state’s numerous lakes, which offer a range of recreational activities for locals and guests alike, are one of its many natural attractions.
Mississippi lakes range in size from small ponds to large reservoirs, and offer activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. Many of these lakes in Mississippi are man-made, created by dams on rivers or other bodies of water. Some of the most popular lakes in Mississippi include Sardis Lake, Grenada Lake, Ross Barnett Reservoir, and Enid Lake.
In addition to these larger lakes, there are many smaller lakes scattered throughout the state, each with its own unique character and recreational opportunities. Some of these smaller lakes are located in state parks, which offer amenities such as campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, and more.
Overall, Mississippi lakes provide a valuable resource for both recreation and conservation. They offer a way to enjoy the natural beauty of the state and provide important habitats for fish and wildlife. Whether you are an avid angler, a family looking for a fun day out, or a nature enthusiast seeking peaceful serenity, Mississippi Lakes has something to offer for everyone.
Where to Find Picnic Areas, Campgrounds, and More at Mississippi Lakes
1. Sardis Lake
Sardis Lake is a large, 98,520-acre lake located in the northern part of Mississippi. It was created in 1940 when the Sardis Dam was constructed on the Tallahatchie River. Sardis Lake is one of the best fishing lakes in Mississippi and is also known for boating, camping, hiking, and bird watching. Anglers come to Sardis Lake to catch crappie, catfish, and bass. The Sardis Lake Marina offers boat rentals, a restaurant, and a gift shop. The lake is surrounded by several parks and recreation areas, including the John W. Kyle State Park, which offers camping, picnicking, and swimming.
2. Ross Barnett Reservoir
The Ross Barnett Reservoir is a large, 33,000-acre lake located in central Mississippi. It was created in 1965 when the Ross Barnett Dam was constructed on the Pearl River. The lake is best known for water sports, fishing, and boating. Anglers come to the lake to catch crappie, bass, and catfish. The reservoir is surrounded by parks, trails, and other recreational areas, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Pearl River Valley Water Supply District manages the reservoir, and it offers several boat ramps, marinas, and camping facilities.
3. Grenada Lake
Grenada Lake is a large, 35,000-acre lake located in the north-central part of Mississippi. It was created in 1954 when the Grenada Dam was constructed on the Yalobusha River. The lake is known for its excellent crappie fishing, and anglers also catch bass, catfish, and other species. Grenada Lake is also a popular spot for camping, boating, and water sports. The lake is surrounded by several parks and recreation areas, including the Hugh White State Park, which offers camping, picnicking, and swimming.
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4. Enid Lake
Enid Lake is a large, 28,000-acre lake located in the northern part of Mississippi. It was created in 1952 when the Enid Dam was constructed on the Yocona River. The lake is a popular destination for anglers, particularly for crappie and catfish. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, camping, hiking, and bird-watching. The Enid Lake Marina offers boat rentals, fishing supplies, and a restaurant.
5. Arkabutla Lake
Arkabutla Lake is a large, 33,000-acre lake located in northern Mississippi Lakes. It was created in 1943 when the Arkabutla Dam was constructed on the Coldwater River. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, particularly for crappie and catfish. The lake is also a popular destination for boating, camping, and water sports. The lake is surrounded by several parks and recreation areas, including the Arkabutla Lake Dam Campground, which offers camping and picnic areas
6. Okatibbee Lake
Okatibbee Lake is a smaller, 4,000-acre lake located in eastern Mississippi. It was created in 1967 when the Okatibbee Dam was constructed on the Okatibbee Creek. The lake is a popular destination for anglers, particularly for catfish and bass. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and picnicking. The Okatibbee Lake Dam Campground offers camping and picnic areas.
7. Lake Lincoln
Lake Lincoln is a smaller, 550-acre lake located in southwestern Mississippi. It was created in 1960 when the Lincoln Dam was constructed on the Bogue Chitto River. The lake is a popular destination for anglers, particularly for bass and catfish. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, camping, hiking, and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by a park that offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and a playground. The park also has a campground with 55 RV sites and 10 primitive campsites.
8. Lake Jeff Davis
Lake Jeff Davis is a smaller, 100-acre lake located in southern Mississippi. It was created in 1939 when the Jeff Davis Dam was constructed on Silver Creek. The lake is a popular spot for anglers, particularly for bass and catfish. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, camping, and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by a park that offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and a playground.
9. Lake Claude Bennett
Lake Claude Bennett is a smaller, 200-acre lake located in southwestern Mississippi Lakes. It was created in 1976 when the Claude Bennett Dam was constructed on Silver Creek. The lake is known for its excellent largemouth bass fishing, and anglers also catch crappie, catfish, and other species. The lake is best known for swimming, kayaking, and boating. The lake is surrounded by a park that offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and a playground.
10. Lake Lamar Bruce
Lake Lamar Bruce is a smaller, 300-acre lake located in northeastern Mississippi. It was created in 1950 when the Lamar Bruce Dam was constructed on Mud Creek. The lake is a popular destination for anglers, particularly for crappie and bass. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and camping. The lake is surrounded by a park that offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and a playground. The park also has a campground with 69 RV sites and 30 primitive campsites.
11. Lake Tangipahoa
Although not in Mississippi, Lake Tangipahoa is a 490-acre lake located in Percy Quin State Park, just across the border in Louisiana. It is a popular destination for fishing, particularly for bass and catfish. The lake is also best known for swimming, boating, and kayaking. Percy Quin State Park offers camping, picnic areas, hiking trails, and a golf course. The park also has cabins and lodges available for rent
