Noxubee Wildlife Refuge
A 48,000-acre resting and feeding area for migratory birds, the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge is a 20-minute drive south of Starkville. Alligators, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and more than 250 species of birds, including red-cockaded woodpeckers and a variety of waterfowl, are among the many wildlife species present.
With several trails, two lakes, overlooks and boardwalks, and a visitor’s center, the Refuge provides extensive opportunities for
John Starr Forest
Located 10 miles south of Starkville on MS Hwy 25, the 8,200-acre John Starr Memorial Forest offers
- hunting
- hiking
- bird watching
- picknicking
- primitive camping
- lodge
- RV park
Trim Cane WMA
The 891-acre Trim Cane Wildlife Management Area is 4 miles north of Starkville on MS Hwy 389. Permitted activities are
- deer hunting
- waterfowl hunting
Oktibbeha County Lake & Campground
Located on a 479-acre lake, this county park is 7 miles northwest of Starkville. The Oktibbeha County Lake & Campground is known for its largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and bream fishing. Waterskiing is permitted from noon to sunset. Daily use and camping fees apply; youth fishing (under age 16) is free. Facilities include
- tent camping sites
- camping pads with full hookups
- boat ramp
- restrooms
- fishing piers
- picnic areas with grill
- designated swimming area
Pick-Your-Own Orchards
For ultimate freshness and flavor, pick your own oriental persimmons, pears, muscadines, and blueberries in season at Reese Orchard and then visit Peeples Pecan Company to purchase or harvest your own Mississippi-grown pecans.
Both farms are owned and operated by local families. Reese Orchard is at 1716 Sessums Circle in the Sessums community about 5 miles southeast of Starkville (662-324-1509. Peeples is at 754 Pecan Drive, Starkville (662-323-7038). Call for hours and best picking dates.
Petting Farm
At Pinedale Farm, 1835 Reed Road, Starkville, visitors can mingle with barnyard and exotic animals, go on a hayride, and have a picnic on the site of a 1930s dairy farm. It’s a great place for “city kids” of all ages to get a glimpse of farm life and grow their love for animals. Tours by appointment only; call 662-323-9543.
