One of six national forests in the state, the Bienville National Forest covers 178,541 acres of land and stretches into four counties in central Mississippi. The Bienville National Forest offers a bed of hardwood trees and pine forests with a lot of lakes, streams and ponds, creating outdoor opportunities like birdwatching, boating, camping, fishing, hiking and horseback riding as well as the chance to spot wildlife, such as deer and wild turkey. You will also find wild hogs and bobcats if you dare to look. Camping is available throughout the year, allowing visitors to choose between hot summers, moderate off-seasons and mild winters for just the right vacation time. With so much to see and do, and the fact that cities like Jackson and Meridian are only a little more than an hour away, the Bienville National Forest makes for a great family vacation all year long.
Camping in Bienville National Forest
The best part of camping is spending time in nature while having fun with friends and family, and you can do it all while still enjoying the comfort and conveniences of home. Using RVshare, you can rent a vehicle that meets the specific needs of you and your family.
-
Family C RV Park
Family C RV Park is a modern campground that offers RV guests asphalt parking, full hookups (30 amp, 50 amp, sewer, water), restrooms with showers, wireless internet, laundry facilities, a playground and boat ramp as well as 8 acres of lake for fishing (for registered guests), boating, and swimming with a beach area.
-
Shockaloe Base Camp I
For anyone needing a horse-friendly campground, Shockaloe Base Camp I offers 10 mixed tent and RV campsites. Open March 1 through December 15, the campground has plenty of Loblolly pine and hardwood trees to provide shade and privacy. This campground also has vault and wheelchair-friendly toilets. The rate is $7 per day with a maximum of 14 days, and no reservation is needed. The 23-mile Shockaloe Horse Trail is on site.
-
Roosevelt State Park Campgrounds
Roosevelt State Park offers 109 RV campsites. The campsites are located in wooded areas near the 150-acre fresh-water Shadow Lake. Twenty-seven of these campsites include electricity and water hookups. Eighty-two campsites have sewer hookups along with electricity and water. Campsites feature a bathhouse, showers, laundry, paved RV pads, picnic tables and grills, a swimming area with a beach, and central sewage dumping. Note: A day-use park entrance fee is $4 per vehicle plus an extra $0.50 per person for groups larger than six people.
-
Marathon Campground
Within walking distance of Marathon Lake and surrounded by pine trees, this campground offers 34 (tent or RV) camping sites, a modern bathhouse, wheelchair-friendly showers, flush toilets, full hookups, a waste station, water, electric, picnic tables, grills, a boat ramp, a swim beach, a hiking trail and fishing. No reservations are needed. Rate is $20 per day, $13 with a senior discount. Note: alcoholic beverages are not permitted and there is no gasoline available in Homewood, MS.
Bienville National Forest Hiking Trails
Whether you're looking for an easy, kid-friendly walk or a long loop trail, there's something for everyone in this national forest!
-
Ranger Trail
Located within Bienville National Forest, the Ranger Trail offers visitors a short trek through the woodlands surrounded by local wildlife. Look for white-tailed deer and wild turkey while you hike.
Length: 0.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
-
Shockaloe Trail
For biking, hiking, horseback riding and running, this 23-mile, dog-friendly and nationally recognized loop trail is listed in the National Register of Trails. It offers hikers and riders a flat pathway that takes about 2 days to complete. You will cross a number of small streams, creeks and water holes, so it is a good idea to have an extra pair of socks handy. Look for deer and quail during your hike. Dogs need to be kept on a leash, and it is recommended that you wear orange during deer hunting season.
Length: 23 miles
Intensity: Easy to Moderate
Activities in Bienville National Forest
Bienville National Forest offers you and your family a plethora of opportunities to experience nature and have a lot of fun outdoors. Go swimming in Shongelo Lake. Ride your horse and enjoy the scenery along the Shockaloe Trail, or you can enjoy a fun geocaching adventure. Catch catfish, bass, and crappie in Marathon Lake. Go boating at Beaver Lake, or take your family to have fun at Roosevelt State Park. Then have a picnic at the campsite and stargaze in the evening. Whatever outdoor fun you are looking for, you can find it at Bienville National Forest.
-
Identifying Flora and Fauna
The National Forest offers plenty of natural beauty and wildlife to experience, as well. You can find wild turkeys, coyotes, unique birds and deer roaming the forest as well as spot unique flowers and plants native to the area. Go for a leisurely walk or simply relax among the pine trees.
How to get to Bienville National Forest
Address: Lake, MS 39092
Fee: Entry fee $0
The trails, wildlife and woodlands of the Bienville National Forest offer visitors plenty of opportunities to go biking, hiking, sightseeing and relaxing. No matter how you spend your time in the forest, an RV allows you to enjoy the great outdoors while still having the comforts you are used to at home. With RVshare, you can find the perfect vehicle for your family's needs so you can have the best time at Bienville National Forest. Get started planning your trip today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bienville National Forest
What is the closest town to Bienville National Forest?
Lake, Mississippi is one of the closest towns to the Bienville National Forest. There are restaurants, shops, and other places campers can stock up or rest for a few days.
Can you kayak, canoe, or raft in Bienville National Forest?
Yes, you can kayak, canoe, and raft in Bienville National Forest. There are many large lakes, as well as smaller bodies of water where paddling and rafting is available.
How many hiking trails does Bienville National Forest have?
There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails in Bienville National Forest. You'll find trails for every ability, from easy strolls to arduous hikes and everything in between!
Is Bienville National Forest open all year round?
Yes, Bienville National Forest is open year-round. The mild weather and moderate climate mean that visitors can hike, bike, canoe, and more in any season!
Is there a fee to get into Bienville National Forest?
No, there is no fee to get into Bienville National Forest. However, there are permits or fees required for certain recreation areas, and for activities like camping in certain parts of the forest.
