3 Great Spots for Boating in Driving Distance of Picayune, MS

Located in the southern part of the state and right along the Louisiana state line, the city of Picayune, MS offers endless opportunities for boat enthusiasts and water lovers. If you are thinking of going on a day trip or a weekend escape, grab the keys of your 2023 Nissan Murano and check out these wonderful boating destinations within an hour’s drive from the city center.

1. Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge

Covering an area of around 40,000 acres, Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge was established in the 1980s and features several rivers, swamps, and lakes that make it a well-known destination among boaters from all over the region. Particularly during the winter and spring months, the water levels in the area rise and create sloughs, shallow lakes, and bayous fed by the main river channels.

With public boat launches available, Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge is also a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Located a little over five miles south of the Picayune city center, this national wildlife refuge can be reached in about 10 minutes via route US-11. Some of the facilities you can find here include a picnic pavilion, a boardwalk trail, and streamside camping spots.

2. Pearl River Wildlife Management Area

Surrounded by the banks of two rivers, Pearl River Wildlife Management Area is another sprawling nature reserve where you can launch your boat and explore the wonders of the region. Covering about 36,000 acres and managed by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, this place is also a well-known wildlife watching destination, providing habitat to hundreds of species of birds and mammals.

Getting from downtown Picayune to Pearl River Wildlife Management Area takes about 25 minutes by car, driving a little under 20 miles south along route I-59. Once you make your way here, some of the facilities you will find include riverside picnic spots, a series of hiking trails, designated hunting areas, a shooting range, and numerous small streams and bayous.

3. Fontainebleau State Park

Featuring a public boat ramp that provides access to Lake Pontchartrain, Fontainebleau State Park is a great destination to spend a weekend enjoying your favorite water activities. Sitting on the northern shores of the lake and just a few miles east of the causeway that connects the area with New Orleans, this state park can be reached in about 45 minutes from the Picayune city center.

Are you searching for a powerful and reliable vehicle to tow your boat and check out these fantastic destinations? Stop by Nissan of Picayune and discover the perfect model for your needs and budget! A family-owned dealership with over 11 years of experience, we have served customers from Picayune, Gulfport, Carriere, Slidell, and other nearby towns and cities.