Black Creek: Mississippi's Hidden Wilderness River
Black Creek earned its National Wild and Scenic River designation because it looks like it belongs in the Florida panhandle, not Mississippi — white sand beaches that build up on the inside of every bend, water so clear you can see three feet down through the tannins, and overhanging magnolia, cypress, and longleaf pine. The Black Creek Wilderness (5,054 acres) and Black Creek Trail (41 miles) together form the most significant backcountry experience in the state. The trail roughly parallels the river through De Soto National Forest — you can combine a float with hiking segments for variety.
Trip Overview
- Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
- Activities: Canoeing/kayaking (Days 1–4) + hiking the Black Creek Trail (Days 5–6)
- Float distance: 30–40 miles (Moody's Landing to Big Creek Landing, most popular section)
- Best months: March–May, October–November
- Base town: Hattiesburg, MS
- Canoe rental: Black Creek Canoe Rental (Brooklyn, MS) or Ashe Lake Recreation Area
Day 1 — Put-in at Moody's Landing (8 miles)
Launch from Moody's Landing on Highway 29. The first day sets the tone immediately — white sand bars appear at every bend, perfect for lunch stops and swimming. The water runs amber from tannins (tannic acid from vegetation, not pollution) but is crystal-clear. Alligators appear south of Janice; leave them alone. Camp on one of the many sandbars or at a designated wilderness campsite (first-come, no reservation).
Days 2–3 — Main Wilderness Float (18 miles)
The heart of the wilderness section: less than a mile of maintained road access anywhere along this stretch. The forest is old-growth bottomland hardwood — massive bald cypress, water tupelo, and swamp black gum. Spring brings prothonotary warblers (brilliant gold, nest in cavities over the water), wood ducks, and the piercing call of the barred owl at night. The current is slow (the creek drops just 1–2 feet per mile) — paddle actively. Camp on sandbars both nights.
Day 4 — Take-out at Big Creek Landing & Drive to Trailhead
Take out at Big Creek Landing and shuttle vehicles to the Black Creek Trail northern trailhead near Janice. The float portion is complete; the last two days are on foot.
Days 5–6 — Black Creek Trail (15 miles)
The Black Creek Trail is a 41-mile footpath through De Soto National Forest that parallels the river. The southern 15-mile section (Purvis to Big Creek) passes through longleaf pine savanna, crosses the creek multiple times (wet crossings, plan accordingly), and offers the best old-growth views. Two days of hiking with creek-side camping. No permit required. Water from the creek (filter).
Gear Notes
- Dry bags essential — flat water can become fast after heavy rain
- Water shoes for creek crossings on the trail
- Sunscreen — sandbars are fully exposed midday
- Ticks abundant April–October; treat clothing with permethrin
- No cell service in wilderness section; download offline maps
