Do it the Mississippi way and head to the shore for a winter weekend retreat. This amazing park allows you to explore some of the remote barrier islands in Mississippi with no shortage of things to entertain you during the winter. Here’s how you can plan your escape and make the most of your winter weekend visit.
Set up camp at the Davis Bayou Campground in Ocean Springs for access to hiking, boating, and fishing. This campground is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore so you can stay in the midst of all the park offers. Site can accommodate tents and RVs alike, offering water and electrical hookups and additional amenities like hot showers.
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The 15.5-mile trail connects the Davis Bayou Campground to downtown Ocean Springs, giving you a chance to explore the area faster than you could on foot. The trail is easy to navigate and there’s plenty of signage to help you find your way. This bike trip also takes you along some of the area’s marshes and woodlands where wildlife is known to dwell.
Gulf Islands National Seashore is home to almost 300 species of birds on the mainland, wooded areas, and in the marshes. You can pick up a list at any of the park visitor centers and try your hand at spotting them in the wild.
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Fish, shrimp, and crabs are abundant in these nutrient-rich waters. The Davis Bayou campground has a fishing pier that’s perfect for dropping a line, or you can ferry across to West Ship Island for more hot spots. You’ll need a Mississippi saltwater fishing license, but it’s well worth the minimal effort to get one.
Accessible only by private boat, this family-friendly excursion is a trip off the beaten path. Explore the wilderness on Horn Island, which is home to wildlife, a variety of bird species, and primitive campsites. The island is ideal for picnics, birdwatching, or simply getting away from the usual hustle and bustle of daily life.
Combining blues, brews, and barbecue, this is one of the best places in town for a hot meal. Their menu features just about anything you’re craving, from wings to nachos to burgers and seafood. Their live music calendar stays pretty full on the weekends, so your getaway won’t be lacking any entertainment.
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This local outdoor store has everything you may have forgotten at home for your weekend camping trip. They feature a huge selection of food, flashlights, knives, first aid kits, boots, and other gear you may need for camp. Plus, you’ll be supporting a local business that’s helped to shape the area’s outdoor scene, so it’s a win/win for everyone.
This historic antebellum home is serving up delicious Gulf seafood that’s as authentic as you can get. Their southern fried chicken, shrimp, and catfish are local legends and know how to satisfy and delight. Surrounded by 500-year-old oaks and beautiful ocean views, you just can’t go wrong with a meal here.
This hometown favorite art museum is chock full of interesting pieces, exhibits, and displays that surprise and entertain. They receive traveling exhibits often so there’s always something new to discover. Families love bringing the kids here to explore all the colors, shapes, and wonders to inspire their inner artists.
Not far from Ocean Springs you’ll find Biloxi, a city brimming with nightlife and other entertainment. But if you want to skip the crowds in lieu of a more family friendly activity, head to the lighthouse and start climbing. Erected in 1848, you can tour the lighthouse and grounds for a small fee.
Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.
