Here’s The Ultimate Bucket List For Mississippians Who Are Obsessed With Nature

Can’t get enough of Mother Nature and all of her amazing creations? Well, you’re in luck. Here in the Magnolia State, we’ve got lots of places where you can experience the great outdoors. From parks and trails to wildlife-related fun, the opportunities are virtually endless. Read on for a few of our favorite places for outdoor recreation in Mississippi.

1. Strawberry Plains Audubon Center (Holly Springs)

A nature lover’s paradise, Strawberry Plains Audubon Center in Holly Springs boasts 2,600 acres of forests, grasslands, and wildflower meadows. The natural beauty doesn’t end there, though. Strawberry Plains is home to an impressive hummingbird population, which means spotting the flying gems is highly likely.

2. Canoe and Trail Outpost (Tylertown)

Thanks to this outpost, enjoying the slow-flowing waters of the Bogue Chitto River couldn’t be easier. In addition to renting canoes, kayaks, and tubes, Canoe and Trail Outpost

offers a variety of trail and trip options, which range in length from 4-to-13 miles. And for those really wanting to soak up some nature, there’s an 18-mile overnight trip, which involves setting up camp right on the river’s edge.

3. Crosby Arboretum (Picayune)

Expansive beauty abounds at Crosby Arboretum, a true small town gem! In addition to 700 acres of natural areas, the arboretum boasts a 104-acre interpretive site, which includes a savanna exhibit, woodland exhibit, and aquatic exhibit. Several trails, which are lined with informative signage, are another perk of the arboretum and make it easy to explore its grounds.

4. Pascagoula River Audubon Center (Moss Point)

The Pascagoula River is one of the state’s most well known bodies of water – and you can learn all about it at this outdoor treasure. In addition to educational exhibits, trails, wildlife watching, bayou walkways and observation decks, and a nature play garden, the Pascagoula River Audubon Center offers several ways to get out on the water, including kayak rentals and swamp tours. It ranks high among the best places for outdoor recreation in Mississippi.

5. Gulf Coast Gator Ranch (Moss Point)

Looking for another opportunity for outdoor fun in Moss Point? Then you won’t be disappointed with a visit to the Gulf Coast Gator Ranch where you can "fly" across 105 acres on an air boat. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for alligators, birds, and other marine life that are known to inhabit the area.

6. Tanglefoot Trail (Houston to New Albany)

Once a railroad, the Tanglefoot Trail has since been converted thanks to the state’s Rails to Trails program. The 43.6-mile trail will take you on a one-of-a-kind journey through fields, forests, meadows and wetlands, navigating the same paths as the Chickasaws and Meriwether Lewis.

7. Chautauqua Park

A visit to Chautauqua Park in Crystal Springs will give you the chance to take in breathtaking scenery and do some serious wildlife viewing. If it doesn't already, it should definitely appear in any nature lover's guide to Mississippi!

8. Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge (Hollandale)

The Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge is an ideal spot for hikers and nature-lovers alike. In addition to beautiful scenery and hiking trails, the refuge features a butterfly garden and wildlife observation areas, which offer great views of the alligators who call the refuge home.

9. Tara Wildlife (Vicksburg)

This secluded resort has been rated one of the nation’s top destinations for deer and turkey hunting, but that’s not all it has to offer. Encompassing thousands of acres, guests at Tara Wildlife can take part in everything from serene strolls to exciting wildlife tours, making it the perfect place to get in touch with nature.

So, have you been to all of the amazing places mentioned above? Did you learn about some new spots? Have a place to add to this list? Tell us in the comments section.

Want more outdoor fun? Then be sure to check out the Mississippi Paddling Trail at Sky Lake.