Bear Creek in Mississippi

Trip Overview

This trip is about a 6.5 mile trip that ends inside Tishomingo State Park. This section of Bear Creek is maintained by the Park and almost always is passable. They are fairly quick to remove trees that have fallen across the creek.

The water release was only 60CFS. A little more would have been nice as the river was shallow in places. Overall though, there was a decent current with only a couple of stretches where the water was almost stopped. The release can be checked at www.tva.com. It is listed under "River Information" as Bear Creek. (Not to be confused with Upper Bear Creek which runs through Hackleburg, AL among other places.)

At this water level there are no real rapids--only shoals and rocks. All are easily managed. There is one limbo log across the river just after starting. At this level you have to go under it as the right side is too shallow. This was quite amusing.

Making the run before the Park's 9am float, we saw lots of wildlife and had the creek pretty much to ourselves.

Tips: Avoid putting in at either 9am or 1pm as the State Park runs a canoe trip (for $20) at these times. An hour before or after these times is ideal. The park also parks their canoe trailers at the take out and you may have to carry your boat(s) just a bit after the trip.

Accommodations:

There are no facilities at the put in. The put in is a small circular drive with easy access to the creek. The take out is located near hiking trails, picnic tables, restrooms, and a playground inside the park.

Fees:

There are no fees to launch or paddle. However, a $2 entrance fee per vehicle is charged to enter Tishomingo State Park.

Directions:

To Put In - From Dennis, head east on CR86. There are several intersections that are not clearly marked. CR86 is also CR57 until they split about a mile before the bridge. The put in is a left turn just over the bridge.

To Take Out - Take out is located inside Tishomingo State Park just before the swinging bridge. Maps are available at the front gate.