Rising from the Mississippi River floodplain in Sharkey County, Delta National Forest stands as the only bottomland hardwood forest in the entire National Forest system. This 62,109-acre preserve protects a rare ecosystem where green ash, overcup oak, and sweetgum trees tower over dark, slow-moving bayous—a landscape that once dominated the Mississippi Delta before agriculture transformed the region.
Established in 1961, Delta operates jointly as the Sunflower Wildlife Management Area, making it a prime destination for anglers and wildlife observers. The forest’s network of sloughs and oxbow lakes supports exceptional fishing for bass, catfish, and bream. During spring and fall migrations, birders flock here to spot wood ducks, herons, and migratory songbirds moving through the hardwood canopy.
Hiking trails wind through the floodplain forest, offering intimate encounters with old-growth bottomland habitat. The Green Ash-Overcup Oak-Sweetgum Research Natural Areas preserve some of the forest’s most ecologically significant stands. Primitive camping is permitted throughout the forest, though no developed campgrounds exist—bring all supplies and prepare for a true backcountry experience.
Spring visits reward with wildflower blooms and active wildlife, while fall brings vibrant foliage and hunting seasons. Summer can be hot and humid with high water levels limiting access to some areas. Winter offers solitude and excellent bird watching.
The forest lies approximately 45 miles northeast of Vicksburg, with the Delta Ranger District office located in Rolling Fork for permits and current conditions.
Explore Nearby
- Leroy Percy State Park — State Park in Mississippi
- Poverty Point Reservoir State Park — State Park in Louisiana
- Natchez LightA — Lighthouse in Mississippi
