Set on 190,000 acres encompassing seven different counties in Southern Mississippi, Homochitto National Forest presents nature at its finest. Here, you'll find a range of fun opportunities to indulge in with your friends and family. Visitors especially love the 12-acre Clear Spring Lake that's surrounded by a sandy beach and luscious forest grass, ideal for picnicking, relaxing, stargazing, and nature viewing. The nearby Clear Springs Trail is now known as one of the top trails for mountain bikers in the area. Homochitto National Forest is also home to 1075-acre Okhissa Lake, which is great for fishing, boating, picnicking, and seasonal swimming. Many of the recreational areas in the forest are a product of the Civilian Conservation Corps, which began reforestation in the area in the mid-1930s.
How to get to Homochitto National Forest
Address: 1200 Hwy 184 E, Meadville, MS 39653
Fee: Entry fee $0
Homochitto National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts all year round. Visitors can explore the beautiful creeks, waterfalls, and azure lakes. Furthermore, it's a premier spot in Southern Mississippi for fishing, birdwatching, hiking, biking, horseback riding through Brushy Creek Loop, and many other fun activities. Since the trails are usually long, you may want to set up camp at the RV-friendly Clear Springs Campground. An RV offers a reliable, comfortable, and safe means to enjoy the scenic drive through the national forest.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homochitto National Forest
Does Homochitto National Forest offer free camping sites?
Yes, Homochitto National Forest offers free camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed in the forest, as long as campers leave no trace when they are finished. There are no amenities with dispersed camping, so everything must be packed in and out.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Homochitto National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Homochitto National Forest. If you are dispersed camping, you may camp for up to 14 days during a 30-day period. If you are staying in a developed campground, check with the campground to see what the limits are on your stay.
Is Homochitto National Forest open all year round?
Yes, Homochitto National Forest is open all year-round. Mississippi's mild weather means that there are plenty of outdoor activities available in any season.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Homochitto National Forest?
Yes, you need a permit to hunt in Homochitto National Forest. If you are between the ages of 16 and 64, you also need a fishing license to fish in Homochitto National Forest.
Is there a fee to get into Homochitto National Forest?
No, there is no fee to get into Homochitto National Forest. However, there may be additional fees or permits required for certain recreational activities, or to use certain areas of the forest.