Smith County: Lakes, Trails and History

In the northeastern part of Smith County lies the 50-acre Marathon Lake. Nearly 73,000 acres of the Bienville National Forest are also located in the county. Lakes, forest areas, hiking trails and river landscapes offer different focal points for a trip, alongside local history and the Mississippi Watermelon Festival. As you plan, consider whether you’d like to spend most of your time by lakes and rivers, on trails or exploring the county’s historic sites.

Lakes and Natural Areas

The Marathon Recreation Area combines a lake with camping and picnic facilities: The area has 34 campsites with water and electricity hookups, 14 picnic tables, two picnic shelters and a swimming area. Some facilities may change, so it’s a good idea to check before your visit. The approximately 1.5-mile Lake Loop Trail adds a hiking option to your time at the lake.

Shongelo Park also offers camping and picnic facilities: It has four campsites, seven picnic sites, a picnic shelter and a swimming area. A loop trail about half a mile long leads to an observation deck overlooking the lake. Comparing the two trails, the Lake Loop Trail is longer at around 1.5 miles; the trail in Shongelo Park is about half a mile long and includes the viewpoint. Check the current facilities here, too.

Prentiss Walker Lake is an 81-acre lake on Highway 35, four miles southwest of Mize. It is known for especially large bluegill and redear sunfish; fishing conditions can vary by season. Beaver Lake is a man-made, 67-acre lake dating from the era when ironwood was transported by rail. Small boats can be used for fishing there.

Hiking Trails and Water Activities

The Oakohay Hiking Trail passes through a stand of trees that illustrates uneven-aged management of loblolly pines. In addition to exercise, the trail offers a look at the stand’s varied age structure. Swimming is possible at Tallahala Creek in summer, and there is also a small waterfall.

The Leaf River in Smith County is suitable for trips by canoe, kayak or small boat. Another state-designated access point to the river is the Bob Blakeney Bridge on River Road, north of Taylorsville. Check conditions on site. The Strong River flows near Polkville through the northwestern part of Smith County and is considered shallow and calm.

The Tallahala Wildlife Management Area is a large landscape that spans Scott, Newton, Smith and Jasper counties and lies near Montrose. The area covers around 28,120 acres. To reach the headquarters from I-20, take Exit 100, then Highway 80 East, Highway 505 south and Roberts County Line Road. Check the route before setting out.

History in Taylorsville and Raleigh

The Watkins Museum is located at 326 Eureka Street in Taylorsville. It is the only surviving commercial building from the town’s early growth period. Formerly a general store and newspaper office, the building is associated with the Taylorsville Signal. The museum offers a way to understand the site through the building’s former uses and its connection to local newspaper history.

The Smith County Courthouse in Raleigh was built in 1912 and designated a Mississippi Landmark on June 3, 1996. It is considered the most significant landmark building in Raleigh. Visitors interested in the history of public buildings will find a clear contrast with the former commercial and newspaper building in Taylorsville: both places tell the story of the county’s development, but through different types of buildings.

The name Shongelo also reflects local history: Shongelo was a village founded in 1865 and named after Shongelo Creek. In Mize, Okohay Creek and Clear Creek flow through the town and its City Park. These named waterways provide additional landmarks within the county, complementing its lakes and rivers.

Activities and Trip Planning

The Mississippi Watermelon Festival features festival food and watermelons, as well as runs and walking activities. Along with the hiking trails, fishing opportunities and historic sites, it offers a different focus for planning your trip. If you’re looking for a hotel for your stay, you can base your search on the experiences you want to make time for: nature and water, trails or local history.

Discover more destinations: Taylorsville, Pearl River County, Alcorn County, Webster County, Washington County, Forrest County, Hancock County, Oktibbeha County.

For the broader travel overview: Mississippi.