Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bienville Pines Scenic Area
The Bienville Pines Scenic area is just two miles from I-20, and it contains the largest
stand of old-growth pine in Mississippi. The fact that this area of large, impressive pine trees
is only 180 acres emphasizes the sad fact that human beings have eliminated virtually all of
the natural environments that existed in the eastern United States. Further, the pines in this
180-acre area are intensively managed; pine bark beetle infested trees are cut down, and hard-
woods near the woodpecker areas are cut to open those areas for the birds. Despite the large
size and impressive age of the trees(some are over 200 years old), the area is not a scenic
wonder. It is between the town of Forest and I-20, and the sound of vehicles and other hu-
man devices is constant. Also, a natural gas pipeline dissects the area. Nonetheless, there are
big pines, and red-cockaded woodpeckers live here. Although you may see the woodpeckers
anywhere in the area, the best place I have found is at the easternmost segment of the looping
trail that runs through the tract. There are numbered signs along the trail which correspond to
a trail guide. However, the trail guide is often not available at the trailhead. Follow the trail to
an area of many tall pines where the hardwoods in the understory have been girdled and cut
down. Several red-cockaded woodpecker nest trees are visible in this area, and at a bend in
the trail, guidepost number 7 provides a good view of this stretch of trees. Wait, and listen for
the distinctive call of the woodpeckers. I witnessed a pair of the woodpeckers mating here.
Bienville National Forest
