Discover the Oldest Man-Made Lake in Mississippi

The majority of Mississippi’s large lakes were artificially created for specific purposes rather than forming naturally. Large lakes in Mississippi, such as Arkabutla, Sardis, Enid, and Grenada Lakes, are primarily categorized as flood control lakes. These types of lakes are water reservoirs created to prevent floods downstream. Many of these reservoirs are produced when a riverbank dam is constructed.

With the introduction of powered earth-moving equipment in the early 1900s, lake development flourished. The Flood Control Act of 1936, which offered a strategy to deal with floods that started in the Yazoo Basin, gave authorization for the construction of the four Mississippi flood control reservoirs, mentioned above, which are located under the Vicksburg District’s jurisdiction.

Research is limited to lakes constructed before this time period. In this article, we will explore the oldest documented man-made lake in Mississippi.

Oldest Man-Made Lake In Mississippi On Record

Although it is speculated that man-made lakes have been underway since the 1800s in Mississippi, the oldest man-made lake with verifiable data is Sardis Lake. Sardis Lake in Mississippi was built by the federal government USACE for flood control in the 1930s.

The lake was created by damming the Tallahatchie River, and it is also the largest man-made reservoir in Mississippi, with a total area of approximately 98,520 acres. The lake is now used for other purposes beyond recreation, including flood control, water supply, and power generation.

Where Is Sardis Lake Located On A Map?

Sardis Lake, on the Tallahatchie River, is located in Northwest Mississippi and is located nine miles southeast of the town of Sardis. It is approximately one hour’s drive from Memphis, Tennessee. John W. Kyle State Park sits along its southwest shores and it is close to the town of Oxford, home of the University of Mississippi.

What Can You Do At Sardis Lake?

There are many things to do at Sardis Lake in Mississippi, including:

Fishing: Sardis Lake is well known as a great spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species to be found including bass, crappie, catfish, and bream.

Boating: The lake is popular for boating, with several boat ramps and marinas available for visitors to launch their boats or rent them on-site.

Swimming: There are several designated swimming areas around the lake, including those at John W. Kyle State Park and Clear Creek Recreation Area.

Camping: There are several campgrounds around the lake, both public and private, offering different types of sites for tents, RVs, or cabins.

Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the area, including the 4.6-mile Outcroppings Trail which offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

Birdwatching: Sardis Lake is a good spot for birdwatching, with several trails and observation points available to view native bird species in their natural habitats.

What Type Of Fish Can Be Found In Sardis Lake?

Sardis Lake in Mississippi is home to a variety of fish species, including bass (largemouth, spotted), crappie (white, black), catfish (blue, channel), walleye, white bass, sunfish, bluegill, and more, as noted by various fishing and wildlife resources. The lake is a popular fishing spot and offers a diverse range of fish for anglers to catch.

Are There Any Restrictions Or Regulations For Fishing At Sardis Lake?

There are restrictions and regulations for fishing at Sardis Lake in Mississippi. These regulations are set by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks and include creel limits, size limits, and restricted areas. For example, the aggregate daily boat creel limit for crappie for boats with three or more anglers is 40, while the daily limit of crappie per fisherman is 15.

Additionally, there are specific size and number limits for white bass fishing, and certain areas of the lake may be restricted. It is important for fishermen to consult the latest fishing regulations before embarking on a fishing trip to Sardis Lake.

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Sardis Lake?

The best time of year to visit Sardis Lake in Mississippi can depend on what activities you are planning to do. For fishing, spring, and fall can be good seasons for catching bass, crappie, and other species. Summer is a popular time for boating and swimming, with warm temperatures and plenty of water activities available.

The nearby John W. Kyle State Park is also a popular destination for camping and hiking, and the fall season can be a particularly beautiful time to visit with the changing colors of the leaves. Overall, the best time to visit Sardis Lake may depend on your personal preferences and interests, as the lake offers a variety of activities throughout the year.

Honorable Mention: Local Hidden Gem May Be Even Older Than Sardis Lake!

There is one hidden treasure that predates the lakes in the Vicksburg District, including Sardis Lake. Darden Lake is a beloved local secret and a hidden gem of Mississippi’s outdoor recreation scene, with proof of its existence since the 1920s. It is a small lake located in northeast Mississippi, just outside the city of Oxford. It is a popular destination for fishing and boating and is known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

The lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, crappie, catfish, and bream, making it a favorite spot for anglers looking for a good catch. In addition to fishing and boating, visitors to Darden Lake can also enjoy hiking, camping, and picnicking in the surrounding area. There are several cabins and vacation rentals available for rent near the lake, making it an excellent destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Based on the limited information available, it is possible that the lake may be man-made, given that it is stocked with fish and may be used for recreational purposes such as boating and fishing. However, this is purely speculative, and further research would be needed to definitively determine whether the lake is man-made or natural.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © DWBMedias/Shutterstock.com