10 Rivers In Mississippi That Are So Much More Than Just A Body Of Water
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Daniella DiRienzo
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When it comes to great waterfront spots, Mississippi has plenty. In addition to bordering the Gulf of Mexico, the state is full of beautiful bodies of water, which include loads of rivers. From the notorious Mighty Mississippi to lesser known water sources, here are 10 stunning rivers in Mississippi that are more than just bodies of water.
No list of rivers in Mississippi would be complete without mentioning the Mighty Mississippi. Flowing through 10 states, the Mississippi River is 2,320 miles long, slightly shorter than the Missouri River. When combined, the two rivers form the longest river system in North America and the 4th longest in the world!
Ashley C. Bartlett
Meandering 444 miles and over half the length of the state, the Pearl River is one of Mississippi’s most recognizable rivers. And it’s not only well known by locals. The journalist Pearl Rivers and the country music band Pearl River named themselves after the body of water. Additionally, a wrestling maneuver – the Pearl River Plunge – was also named after the river.
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In addition to being the largest (by volume) undammed river in the contiguous 48 states, the Pascagoula River has an interesting history. According to legend, the Pascagoula Indian tribe drowned themselves in this river in order to avoid fighting another tribe. It’s said that they sang as they walked into the water, earning it the nickname "The Singing River." Supposedly, on quiet nights the Indian’s death chant can still be heard.
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Amanda Morris
Beginning in the northeastern part of the state, the Tombigbee River flows hundreds of miles before merging with the Alabama River. As part of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, this body of water plays an integral part in the world of transportation.
The crystal clear waters of the Chunky River are great for fishing, canoeing, and swimming…but that’s not its only claim to fame. The river just so happens to be home to the state’s tallest waterfall, Dunn’s Falls. The 65’ waterfall was created in the 1850s and since it’s part of the Dunn’s Falls Water Park, it’s incredibly easy to access.
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Running right through D’lo Water Park, the Strong River is also easy to access, which is great because it’s a prime recreation spot that’s perfect for canoeing, fishing, and swimming.
A tributary of the Mississippi River, Big Black River is located in Webster County. At 160 miles long, it may not be one of the state’s longest rivers but it is one of the most historically significant. During the Civil War, a battle, which ended with the Siege of Vicksburg, took place along the river’s banks.
Spanning 188 miles, the Yazoo River runs parallel to the Mighty Mississippi before eventually merging with it north of Vicksburg. Natural levees prevent it from joining the Mississippi River before Vicksburg, and because of such, the term "yazoo stream" was coined to describe any river in this situation.
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Britney Little
Located in the southeastern portion of the state, this river spans about 210 miles. The swift current makes it popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. Each year, water enthusiasts flock to the river for The Great Chickasawhay River Race.
Meandering almost 200 miles through south Mississippi, the Leaf River has become one of the top fishing destinations in the state. According to Mississippi Sportsman, which referred to the river as a "summer time gem," it’s an especially prime spot for catching spotted bass.
So, have you ever visited any of the rivers above? What rivers would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments section.
If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out “The Riverside Trail In Mississippi With Breahtaking Views You’ll Want To Explore.“
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