Lake Thoreau Environmental Center: A Natural Haven
Discover hiking, fishing, and natural beauty at USM's Lake Thoreau Environmental Center, a sanctuary for longleaf pine forests and outdoor exploration.
Escape to the Lake Thoreau Environmental Center, a nature center near Hattiesburg, Mississippi, managed by the University of Southern Mississippi. It features hiking trails, an artificial lake, and diverse flora and fauna, offering recreational and educational opportunities in a serene setting.
A brief summary to Lake Thoreau Environmental Center
- 150 Lake Thoreau Rd, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39402, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the trails, which vary in length and difficulty.
- Fishing is allowed on weekends only; ensure you have the necessary permits and equipment.
- Check the center's website for upcoming events, educational programs, and possible closures.
- Be aware of 'Sensitive Research Zone' signs and avoid those areas to respect ongoing research.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Hattiesburg, drive west on Hardy Street. Turn left onto Lake Thoreau Road. Continue straight; the Lake Thoreau Environmental Center is located at 150 Lake Thoreau Rd on the left. Parking is available on-site. Limited parking may be available during peak times.
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Public Transport
From the Hattiesburg Transit Center, take Route 1 towards West Hattiesburg. Get off at the Hardy St at South 28th Ave stop. From there, walk east on Hardy St for about 0.8 miles until you reach Lake Thoreau Rd. Turn left onto Lake Thoreau Rd, and the center will be on your left at 150 Lake Thoreau Rd. A single fare on the Hattiesburg Transit is $1.25.
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Biking
From the Hattiesburg Train Depot, access the Longleaf Trace bike trail heading east. Follow the trail for about 3 miles until you reach the junction with Lake Thoreau Rd. Turn left onto Lake Thoreau Rd and continue straight for about 0.5 miles. The Lake Thoreau Environmental Center will be on your right at 150 Lake Thoreau Rd.
Discover more about Lake Thoreau Environmental Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hattiesburg Visitor's Center
7.7 km
Discover Hattiesburg: Your adventure starts here with expert advice, maps, and local insights at the official Visitor's Center.
The University of Southern Mississippi
8.6 km
Discover the vibrant campus life and rich history at The University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, a hub of education and culture.
The Midtowner
8.7 km
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Time Will Tell Escape Games
9.6 km
Experience thrilling escape room adventures at Time Will Tell in Hattiesburg. Test your wits with friends and family in immersive, themed challenges.
Murky Waters BBQ - Hattiesburg
10.6 km
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Southern Oaks
10.7 km
Hattiesburg's premier event venue, offering elegant spaces, full-service catering, and personalized event planning for unforgettable celebrations.
Laser Mania
11.4 km
Hattiesburg's ultimate destination for laser tag, arcade games, and unforgettable fun for all ages. Experience the thrill!
Mississippi Blues Trail – Roots of Rock 'n' Roll
12.6 km
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The Porter Public House
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Category 5 Smash Room
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Jackie D Sherrill Community Center
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Southern Prohibition Brewing
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The Bottling Company
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Hattiesburg's premier event venue, blending historic charm with modern elegance in the heart of downtown.
Oddfellows Gallery
12.8 km
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Downtown Hattiesburg Association & Welcome Center
12.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Longleaf Piney Resort
2.1 km
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Optimist Park
3.8 km
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Updown Trampoline Park
7.4 km
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Pinebelt Blueways
7.7 km
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1964 Freedom Summer Trail & Audio Tour
7.7 km
Explore the 1964 Freedom Summer Trail in Hattiesburg, MS, a historical landmark that honors the Civil Rights Movement's pivotal moments.
Medicine Wheel Garden
8.4 km
Explore the Medicine Wheel Garden in Hattiesburg, MS – a serene blend of nature and indigenous culture, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
Pep's Point Water Park
8.5 km
Experience the ultimate family adventure at Pep's Point Water Park, where fun meets nature in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
Longleaf Trace
8.7 km
Discover the beauty of Mississippi on Longleaf Trace, a scenic biking trail perfect for all levels of cyclists, surrounded by nature's splendor.
All-American Rose Garden
8.9 km
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Serengeti Springs at the Hattiesburg Zoo
10.3 km
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Kamper Park
10.3 km
Explore Kamper Park, a lush oasis in Hattiesburg, MS, perfect for leisure, picnics, and wildlife watching amidst beautiful natural scenery.
Hattiesburg Zoo
10.5 km
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Pinebelt Blueways - Glendale Avenue Boat Ramp
11.0 km
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The Jook
12.4 km
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African American Military History Museum
12.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Half Shell Oyster House
3.2 km
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BlackWater Restaurant
3.4 km
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LandShark Seafood & Catfish - Hattiesburg
3.7 km
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Movie Star Restaurant & Catering
4.4 km
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Indian Delight Hattiesburg
4.6 km
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Bert and Cynt's Soul Food Grill
6.2 km
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Chesterfield's
6.5 km
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Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
6.6 km
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Mario's Italian Restaurant & Bar
6.7 km
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Casa Jalisco Mexican Restaurant
6.9 km
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Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Hattiesburg Restaurant
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Front Porch Barbecue & Seafood
7.1 km
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Patio 44 Hattiesburg
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
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Mugshots Grill and Bar - Hattiesburg, MS
7.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Little Lane
3.2 km
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The Edge Boutique
3.2 km
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Fig Boutique Hattiesburg
3.2 km
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Art*cetera
3.4 km
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Magnolia Moon Boutique
3.6 km
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Five Below
4.5 km
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Thyme Boutique
4.5 km
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Books-A-Million
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Simply Chic by Fetiche Boutique
4.6 km
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South Lane Boutique
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Turtle Creek Mall
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Izzy B. Tween Boutique
5.3 km
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Banana Peel Consignment
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Lori’s Gifts
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The Arbor Shopping Center
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Keg and Barrel West
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J's Tavern
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Brewsky's
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Nostalgia Lounge & Bar
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Mahogany Bar
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Michael Andrews
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4th Street Bar
9.1 km
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The Pullman
9.5 km
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Tavern
10.1 km
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Shenanigan's Bar & Grill
11.3 km
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Fat Cat
12.3 km
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Alley Cats
12.6 km
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SwitchYard
12.7 km
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The Mint julip
13.0 km
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Mark's Place
14.2 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
MpV Lounge & Bar
11.8 km
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Zo’s Club
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zo's Club in Hattiesburg, where music and fun create unforgettable memories.
B's Speed Shop
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of McComb at B's Speed Shop, where music, dancing, and fun come together in a lively setting.
Kramertown Billiards
98.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kramertown Billiards in McComb, MS, where fun, games, and great music come together for an unforgettable night out.
Jubilee Performing Arts Center
99.4 km
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