Pelahatchie Creek in Mississippi

Trip Overview

I read about Pelahatchie Creek on this site so I decided to give it a try. The area is quite swampy and confusing, so Google maps can be handy trying to find your way through the first time. Basically, take a right at the golf course is the simplified way of expressing how to get from the bay to the creek.

The water was fairly deep and is filled with downed trees and stumps. From a distance some areas can appear impassable, but as you get closer the path through is obvious. I was able to paddle through everything without much effort. Once I got past the bridge crossing Hwy 25, a tree was down and covered the entire creek. There appeared to be no way around it unless you wanted to portage.

On my return trip I passed a fisherman and warned him about this tree. He told me it had been there for years.

I found the trip enjoyable. But, if you aren't going to portage around that tree, it's about a 2-3 hour trip.

Accommodations:

Aside from a parking lot, a small boat ramp, and a pier there aren't any facilities worth note. When I was there last somebody was kind enough to throw half cleaned fish in the woods. But on two previous visits I never saw anything like this.

Fees:

There are none required for paddling. For fishing I think a permit may be needed.

Directions:

Take I-20 to Brandon. Take exit 56 (IIRC), then turn right on Value Rd. and take another left. The boat ramp is right across the bay from the store named "Trading post". It will be on the left.

Resources:

I used google maps to navigate the creek.