THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Tombigbee National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · MS

Tombigbee National Forest

Tombigbee National Forest offers diverse outdoor opportunities in Mississippi, featuring a combination of dense woodlands and scenic waterways.

National Forest67,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

67,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Tombigbee National Forest

Tombigbee National Forest offers diverse outdoor opportunities in Mississippi, featuring a combination of dense woodlands and scenic waterways.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Tombigbee National Forest, located in northeastern Mississippi, covers approximately 67,000 acres of diverse landscapes, from pine and hardwood forests to streams and ponds. The forest is divided into two distinct areas, Ackerman and Houston, each offering unique ecological features. The rich biodiversity includes native plant species and wildlife such as deer, turkey, and numerous bird species. Recreational activities like hiking, mountain biking, and hunting are popular among visitors. Established in 1959, the forest provides both conservation and recreation, integrating land management practices to protect its natural resources. Visitors can explore trails like the Choctaw Lake Trail, enjoy camping, or partake in fishing at the various lakes and streams that dot the forest. Its accessibility and variety of outdoor activities make it appealing to nature enthusiasts and families year-round.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Tombigbee National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Choctaw Lake★ 4.5⌖ 14 miFishing
Choctaw Lake

Choctaw Lake

Choctaw Lake in Ackerman, MS, offers serene fishing and hiking in Tombigbee National Forest. Enjoy spotting deer and birds in this tranquil setting. Access via Forest Road 967. Best visited in spring and fall.

Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge★ 8.2⌖ 19 miWildlife Viewing
Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge Admin Building and Visitor Contact Station

Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge

Explore Sam D. Hamilton Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge near Starkville, MS, offering drive-up access. Ideal for birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking. Best visits in spring or fall.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Scenic Splendors of Natchez Trace Parkway★ 8.0⌖ 22 miScenic Drive
Natchez Trace Parkway

Scenic Splendors of Natchez Trace Parkway

Explore the 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway from Natchez, MS to Nashville, TN. Enjoy cycling, hiking, and horseback riding with historical sites and seasonal beauty. This drive-in destination is family-friendly and best in spring or fall.

Scenic DriveView Details→
Mystical Legends at Witch Dance★ 5.2⌖ 32 miHiking
Witch Dance

Mystical Legends at Witch Dance

Visit Witch Dance near Houston, MS, along the Natchez Trace Parkway. This easy trail, rich in folklore, is perfect for a short hike or bird watching, offering a serene escape with historical intrigue.

Natchez Trace Parkway★ 7.2⌖ 44 miScenic Driving
Natchez Trace Parkway

Natchez Trace Parkway

Experience the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway, a historical driving route in Mississippi. Enjoy leisurely drives, short hikes, and wildlife watching. Best visited in spring and fall for mild weather.

Scenic DrivingView Details→
Biking and Running on the Tanglefoot Trail★ 6.1⌖ 57 miBiking
Mississippi

Biking and Running on the Tanglefoot Trail

Explore the 44-mile Tanglefoot Trail in Mississippi, perfect for biking and running enthusiasts. This easy path is accessible year-round with a chance to see local wildlife. Visit during spring and fall for the best experience.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Choctaw Lake Recreation Area✦ Wildlife Viewing Opportunities✦ Historic Sites from the Old Natchez Trace✦ Fishing at Davis Lake
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Tombigbee National Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Tombigbee National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits required; some recreation areas may charge fees

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Tombigbee National Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Choctaw Lake Campground

Located by Choctaw Lake with facilities for camping, picnicking, and access to trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Tombigbee National Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Starkville
⌖ 12.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Starkville, Mississippi

A charming college town offering a blend of cultural experiences with access to serene outdoor spaces for casual adventures.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Ackerman
⌖ 12.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ackerman, Mississippi

A serene rural getaway offering access to outdoor adventures in the heart of Mississippi's diverse landscapes.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Houston
⌖ 30.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Houston, Mississippi

A friendly southern town perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking historical trails and scenic paddling routes.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Winona
⌖ 40.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Winona, Mississippi

A charming small town offering quiet outdoor escapes with rich natural trails, waterways, and seasonal events ideal for paddling, hiking, and cycling.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Philadelphia
⌖ 47.09 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Philadelphia, Mississippi

A quiet Southern town offering access to calm waterways, gentle trails, and natural preserves ideal for beginner to moderate outdoor exploration.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Pontotoc
⌖ 54.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pontotoc, Mississippi

A quiet Southern town offering gentle outdoor experiences with a mix of hiking, fishing, and paddling opportunities close to natural parks and waterways.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Tombigbee National Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Grenada Dive Trip (May 15–22, 2027) — Wreck Diving & Molinere Underwater ParkThe Lime, Saint George · 66.20 mi away
On the Water· Scuba.com - New York

Grenada Dive Trip (May 15–22, 2027) — Wreck Diving & Molinere Underwater Park

Spend seven nights at Coyaba Beach Resort exploring Grenada’s world-class wrecks, reefs, and the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park. Led by Eco Dive and trip leader Raul Romero, this May 15–22, 2027 itinerary blends conservation-minded guiding with comfortable beachfront lodging—perfect for divers who want scientifically informed local expertise.

7 nights, 8 days

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.