The Yalobusha River is full of pleasant surprises and meanderings and is a paddler’s paradise from the dam in Grenada to its end. Claimed to be “one of Mississippi’s treasures,” it flows through the Malmaison Wildlife Management Area, displays sycamore, birch, maple, and willow forests along its banks, hosts and abundance of wildlife from beaver to red-tailed hawks and blue herons, and possesses some fine sandbars and clear water. It is floatable at virtually any level; even in flood the river is fairly docile. There are many opportunities for camping and other outdoor recreational opportunities along its path. This route flows through the gorgeous Malmaison Wildlife Management Area for about half its distance.

This section of the Mulberry has good action. There are a few named rapids and several tight curves. Redding Campground is on the right about halfway down. The Mulberry can be a lazy stream one day and the next be too full to run. Always check the current river level.

Grenada Lake is the largest body of water in Mississippi with nearly 64,000 acres of water, 148 miles of shoreline, 16 boat ramps, boundless opportunities for camping, and many other great outdoor recreation opportunities. This is the perfect spot for family fun and is a popular destination for visitors year-round. In addition to the many water-base and other outdoor recreational activities, Grenada Lake hosts several fishing tournaments annually as well. It is home to Hugh White State Park and several other public use areas around its shores. The scenery is beautiful and there are lots of things to do and see.

Arkabutla Lake is a reservoir on the Coldwater River in both Tate and DeSoto counties in north Mississippi. It is a beautiful and popular lake with an annual visitation exceeding 2 million people. To accommodate all of its visitors, there are many recreational opportunities and facilities available. The lake offers a fishing pier, swimming beach, accessible campgrounds, sailing, waterskiing, and paddling. Sailing is very popular because of the dependable winds. For paddlers, this is something of caution but there are small coves to escape the wind. Wind warning lights are visible from most areas on the lake. No alcohol is permitted and lifejacket wearing is strictly required. The scenery and natural beauty is wonderful while paddling Arkabutla Lake.

The Mulberry River has some entertaining paddling with good scenery. You pass by farmlands but they are well obscured by the densely wooded banks. The primary hazard faced on the Mulberry River is willow jungles; they are long and dense even by Ozark stream standards, it is wise to scout before entering. About .75 miles below the put-in you will encounter a low water bridge that is very hazardous on the river left; it may be passable on the river right but portage if there is any doubt. The put-in is at Byrd’s Adventure Center and a fee must be paid for parking, shuttle services are available. The take-out is at Turner Bend and a fee must be paid for parking/access.

This paddle offers some moderate whitewater on the Buffalo National River; some of the best paddling in middle America. The scenery is excellent, dense hardwood forest blanketing hill country and the highest rock faces in the region. Be on the lookout for willow thickets that can trap boat.

This paddle offers some moderate whitewater on the Buffalo National River; some of the best paddling in middle America. Be wary of the low water bridge at Erbie Ford, the need to portage is likely. The scenery is excellent, dense hardwood forest blanketing hill country and the highest rock faces in the region. Be on the lookout for willow thickets that can trap boat.

Greers Ferry Lake is a large reservoir created by an impoundment of the Little Red River. Located at the eastern edge of the Ozark Mountains the surrounding area consists of hardwood and evergreen forest and agricultural lands. This area of the lake is accessed from Sugar Loaf Use Area and offers access to Sugar Loaf Island known for its award winning nature trail where you’ll find good hiking and incredible views.

Located very near the Mississippi River within the St. Francis National Forest Storm Creek Lake is surrounded by dense and pristine hardwood forest. Actually a small reservoir, this body of water has a long and irregular shoreline that creates plenty of small private coves to explore. Camping facilities are available adjacent to the lake.

The Hailstone River is essentially the upper reach of the Buffalo River but is notably narrower and more challenging than the waters down stream. This section should only be attempted by skilled paddlers with swiftwater rescue skills in an appropriately size group. Expect numerous drops that should be scouted before committing to them. The scenery is excellent, typical of the Ozark hill country with thick forest and towering bluffs. This is also a long run so start early.