Desoto National Forest - Mississippi

Visit the largest of the six national forests in Mississippi. From horseback riding to hiking, from fishing to auto touring, the Desoto National Forest has something for everyone to enjoy.

Characterized by gently rolling terrain covered by southern pine ridges and hardwood bottoms with clear streams, Desoto National Forest offers a serene natural setting and year-round recreation opportunities for hikers, bicyclists, campers, canoeists, horse enthusiasts and anglers. Black Creek, Mississippi's only National Scenic River is famous for its wide, white sandbars and relaxed floating pace, and the 170 miles of trails are perfect for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. Nature lovers will delight in the varied ecosystems found at the Desoto National Forest, from dry, sandy longleaf pine and oak ridges to tupelo and bald cypress swamps. For those who want to spend the night, Desoto National Forest's 4 developed campgrounds are conveniently located within access to its diverse recreation activities.

The Desoto National Forest is located in southeast Mississippi around the cities of Laurel, Hattiesburg, Wiggins and Gulfport. The Forest is split into two large sections. The northern section, southeast of Laurel, comprises the Chickasawhay Ranger District. The southern section, around Wiggins, makes up the Desoto Ranger District.