Contact Information
3473 Hwy 35 South
Forest, MS 39074
601-469-3811
Like the other five national forests in Mississippi, Bienville National Forest is a national treasure known primarily by locals. Given the forest's abundance of its fish-filled lakes, pine woods, picnic areas, campgrounds, and many miles of foot, horse, pedal, and ATV trails, you could hardly blame them for wanting to keep it to themselves. First established in 1934 and named after the early 18th-century French-Canadian colonist and soldier, Jean Baptiste Bienville (founder of Mobile, Natchez, and New Orleans), the forest's 178,400 acres exemplify the Forest Service's land of many uses policy. Its woods, lakes, and streams are managed intensely for timber and wildlife, and they're enjoyed by hunters, fishermen, horseback riders, hikers, as well as cyclists. Bienville National Forest is only 45 miles east of Jackson and is accessible from I-20, U.S. Route 80, and State Routes 18 and 35. One word of warning: Having been built of land acquired from four lumber companies, the forest is still an important timber resource, as well as home to three wildlife management areas that attract in-season hunters. Phone ahead to make sure that your adventures don't coincide with the hunting seasons.
|
|
|
