The Best Swimming Spots in Mississippi: Lakes, Rivers, and More

Mississippi state is home to numerous bodies of water, ranging from slow-moving rivers to serene lakes. These bodies of water provide breathtaking natural beauty. They also offer locals and visitors the perfect opportunity to cool down and enjoy a refreshing swim. Mississippi has some of the best swimming spots waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an avid swimmer or just looking for a place to relax, you’ll find a suitable spot in this southern state.

In this blog post, we take a closer look at some of the best swimming areas Mississippi has to offer. We’ll explore some of the state’s most beautiful lakes and rivers, perfect for swimming and other water activities. Read on to discover some of Mississippi’s hidden gems and plan your next refreshing swim!

1. Red Creek – De Soto National Forest

Red Creek is located in the De Soto National Forest and is known for its clear, cool water and beautiful natural landscape. The creek offers several swimming holes along its path, making it a popular spot during the warmer months. The swimming holes are surrounded by hills and forests, providing a peaceful and secluded atmosphere.

Visitors can also enjoy kayaking and tubing down the creek, as well as hiking and camping in the surrounding forest. Overall, Red Creek is a great spot for those looking to escape the heat and enjoy the natural scenery.

2. Ross Barnett Reservoir – Between Madison and Rankin Counties

Ross Barnett Reservoir is a large lake in central Mississippi that offers a variety of recreational activities including swimming. The lake is surrounded by parks and recreational areas, such as Lakeshore Park. This area features sandy beaches and designated swimming areas. However, visitors should take caution as alligators are known to inhabit the reservoir. If proper safety precautions are not taken, they occasionally pose a threat to swimmers.

Visitors to Ross Barnett Reservoir can enjoy fishing for largemouth and spotted bass, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The lake is also home to a broad range of wildlife, including waterfowl, deer, and other small game. The lake’s shoreline is a popular spot for picnicking and hiking, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape.

Ross Barnett Reservoir is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing day on the water. Visitors should take caution while swimming and follow all safety protocols to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

3. Grenada Lake – Grenada, Mississippi

Grenada Lake is a popular recreational lake located in the city of Grenada, Mississippi. The lake offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including swimming, boating, fishing, skiing, and camping. There are multiple public access points around the lake that offer swimming areas. There are also designated beaches for swimming and sunbathing.

Visitors to Grenada Lake can also enjoy fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and other species. Several marinas and boat ramps are available for boating and water skiing, as well as pontoon and jet ski rentals.

Camping is popular at Grenada Lake, with several campgrounds available for both tent and RV camping. The campgrounds offer amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and showers/bathrooms.

Grenada Lake is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a fun day on the water. Visitors should take appropriate safety precautions and follow all rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

4. Sardis Lake – North Mississippi

Sardis Lake is a 98,520-acre reservoir on the Tallahatchie River in the Mississippi counties of Lafayette, Panola, and Marshall. It is worth noting that Sardis Lake is the largest man-made lake in Mississippi, making it a popular recreational lake located in north Mississippi. The lake offers a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and swimming. The lake has several designated swimming beaches that are open to the public. Life Jacket Loaner Boards are located at all of Sardis Lake’s swimming beaches.

In addition to swimming, visitors to Sardis Lake can enjoy fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and other species. There are several marinas and boat ramps available for boating, as well as kayaking and canoeing opportunities. Camping is popular at Sardis Lake, with several campgrounds available for tent and RV camping.

The state park located at Sardis Lake offers other amenities with a recreation hall, swimming pool, and cabins. However, it should be noted that there is ongoing maintenance work happening at the Clear Creek Recreation Area boat ramp restrooms.

5. Silver Run Swim Hole – Poplarville

Silver Run Falls is also known as Silver Run Swim Hole. It is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike, with a rope swing and a small waterfall that is perfect for sliding or lounging under. Although the water is not deep, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards, such as slippery rocks or changing water conditions. Nonetheless, the water is crystal clear and refreshing, making it a great spot to cool off during the hot Mississippi summers!

In Conclusion

Mississippi is home to a variety of natural water sources that are perfect for swimming! From the crystal-clear waters of Silver Run Falls to the sprawling expanse of Sardis Lake, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to take a dip in the Magnolia State. While each destination has its unique offerings, all of them share a common feature: providing outdoor enthusiasts with a safe and enjoyable swimming experience in a beautiful natural setting.

However, it’s important to remember to take appropriate safety precautions, follow all rules and regulations, and respect the environment to ensure that these beautiful destinations stay clean and accessible for generations to come.