Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bienville National Forest does have one major trail, the Shockloe Trail, which is 23 miles
long. However, this trail is designed primarily for horseback riding.
For more information and a map of the forest, write to Forest Supervisor, National Forests
in Mississippi, 100 W Capitol Street, Suite 1141, Jackson, MS 39269.
Roosevelt State Park
On the western edge of Bienville National Forest is Roosevelt State Park. This is a small
park around a lake. It is easily reached by taking exit 77 on I-20 and then going north. Camp-
ing is available here; birding should be representative of the area in general, with such species
as eastern bluebird, pine warbler, eastern pewee, blue-gray gnatcatcher, and, in winter, hermit
thrush.
PEARL RIVER WATERFOWL REFUGE
Run by the Mississippi Department of Conservation on Ross Barnett Reservoir, this wa-
terfowl area is a good birding spot during winter. A series of impoundments provide shallow
wetlands for the birds, and the lake provides deep water habitat. There are few places to park,
and some of the obvious places to park on the north side of SH 43 (at some gated roads) are
marked as no parking allowed. Quick stops at these places will allow you to scope the ponds
in the refuge. Walking in the refuge area is not allowed, but much of it can be seen from the
side of the road. At the eastern edge of the refuge is a dirt road called Pipeline Road; you can
stop here, park, and look over part of the refuge.
Just before you reach the bridges and causeway to cross the lake, there is a good parking
area on the north side of the road. This area, called Highway 43 Public Fishing Pier, provides
good views over the lake and some marshy areas on the shore. There are unofficial places to
park on portions of the causeway.
