Mississippi Trails

Multi-use recreation is a key feature along FR 426 in this 518,000-acre De Soto National Forest segment. Scattered amongst the mature Long Leaf and Loblolly Pines, one can find camping, hiking, designated bicycle trails, and designated motorcycle trails in this no-fee area of the national forest. The Bethel Bicycle Trail Recreation Area is one of southern Mississippi's few mountain bike-specific trail networks.

The gently rolling terrain in the De Soto National Forest means little elevation change for your outdoor activities. While recreating, however, one should tread lightly as several venomous snake species call the De Soto National Forest home.

Although WWII was fought in the Pacific and European theatres, captured German soldiers were held at prisoner camps in southern Mississippi. Large tents provided housing for these POWs while in captivity. Today, few relics remain from this old prisoner camp. The US Forest Service recognizes the POW Camp Recreation Area as a reminder of the war's history.

POW Camp Road, situated in the De Soto National Forest, provides access to this historic site. Camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing now replace the other more austere activities from the 1940s. The only signs left of the old POW camp are large concrete ammunition storage bunkers.

Raymond Creek Road provides a relaxing stroll through the Gulf Coast plains forest ecosystem in the De Soto National Forest. With ridges sporting Long Leaf Pines and bottoms filled with native oaks, this forest offers an example of the traditional ecosystem found 20 miles north of the coast. Between heavy rain and the occasional hurricane or tropical storm, this forest receives more than 60 inches of rain annually. This quickly growing forest takes maintenance to keep it in check. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells this forest offers.

Whether you're a child or an adult, the clip-clop sound of a horse is alluring. Ford Road is the centerpiece in the De Soto National Forest for horseback recreation. The Big Foot Horse Trails begin and travel along this forest road. The trailhead for the horse trails is located at the Big Foot Horse Trails Campground and becomes the home base for these equestrian activities. Because OHVs are not allowed on Ford Road or in the campground, a peaceful and serene stay awaits a getaway to this Gulf Coastal Plains forest.