The Scenic Beauty of Ross Barnett Reservoir

Explore the natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Ross Barnett Reservoir in Mississippi, a perfect destination for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching.

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Ross Barnett Reservoir

Nestled in the heart of Mississippi, the Ross Barnett Reservoir is a stunning expanse of water and nature. This 33,000-acre lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a variety of activities. From boating and fishing to hiking and picnicking, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The reservoir is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it a perfect spot for photography and wildlife watching. The sunsets over the water are breathtaking, casting a golden glow that reflects off the lake's surface. Visitors can explore the many parks and trails that wind around the reservoir, each offering unique views and experiences. For those interested in fishing, the Ross Barnett Reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie. Boating is another popular activity, with several marinas and boat ramps available for public use. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure-filled day, the Ross Barnett Reservoir has it all.

Local tips in Ross Barnett Reservoir

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy serene views.
Bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months, to ensure a comfortable visit.
Check the local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary permits before fishing.
Pack a picnic and use the designated areas around the reservoir for a relaxing meal with a view.
Wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan to explore the trails around the reservoir.

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When is the best time to go to Ross Barnett Reservoir?

Unmissable attractions to see

Reservoir Overlook

Discover stunning views and serene landscapes at the Reservoir Overlook on the Natchez Trace Parkway in Madison, Mississippi.

McClain Resort

Experience the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and local cuisine at McClain Resort in Brandon, Mississippi, a must-visit destination for travelers.

LeFleur's Bluff State Park Mayes Lake

Explore the serene landscapes and outdoor adventures at LeFleur's Bluff State Park, a natural oasis in Jackson, Mississippi.

Winners Circle Park

Discover the tranquil beauty of Winners Circle Park in Flowood, Mississippi - a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and community spirit.

Old Trace Park

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Old Trace Park in Ridgeland, MS, a perfect spot for outdoor activities, picnics, and family fun.

Bobby Cleveland Park at Lakeshore

Discover the tranquility and beauty of Bobby Cleveland Park at Lakeshore, a perfect destination for nature lovers and families in Brandon, Mississippi.

Flowood Nature Park

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Flowood Nature Park, a perfect destination for relaxation and outdoor activities in Mississippi.

Parham Bridges Park

Explore Parham Bridges Park in Jackson, MS: a perfect blend of nature, fitness, and family-friendly activities in a serene environment.

Cypress Swamp

Discover the serene Cypress Swamp in Mississippi, a haven for hiking, wildlife, and stunning natural beauty along the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Pelahatchie Shore Park

Discover Pelahatchie Shore Park in Brandon, Mississippi, where nature's beauty meets endless outdoor fun for visitors of all ages.

Freedom Ridge

Explore Freedom Ridge Park in Ridgeland, MS, where nature, recreation, and community come together for a perfect outdoor experience.

Strawberry Patch Park

Discover the natural beauty and family-friendly activities at Strawberry Patch Park, a serene retreat in Madison, Mississippi.

Shiloh Splash Park

Experience fun and relaxation at Shiloh Splash Park, a premier water park in Brandon, Mississippi, perfect for families and tourists alike.

Dog Park at The Rez

Discover the Dog Park at The Rez in Ridgeland, Mississippi – a delightful retreat for dogs and their owners amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

Ross R Barnett Reservoir

Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Ross R Barnett Reservoir, Mississippi's premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Essential places to dine

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

Discover the essence of Southern hospitality at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Pearl, MS - where great food meets charming gifts.

Cock of the Walk

Experience Southern hospitality at Cock of the Walk in Ridgeland, MS - where fresh seafood meets vibrant atmosphere.

Half Shell Oyster House

Discover Half Shell Oyster House in Flowood: A must-visit destination for seafood lovers craving fresh oysters and Southern hospitality.

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers

Savor the taste of Southern comfort food at Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers in Ridgeland – where every bite is finger-licking good!

Sonny's BBQ

Experience the true taste of Southern barbecue at Sonny's BBQ in Brandon, MS - where flavor meets hospitality!

Georgia Blue

Discover the heart of Southern cuisine at Georgia Blue - a vibrant American restaurant serving delicious comfort food in Madison.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Experience the thrill of game day at Buffalo Wild Wings in Ridgeland—where delicious wings meet electrifying sports action.

Denny's

Discover Denny's in Ridgeland for delicious American breakfasts served 24/7 in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Lou's Full-Serv

Discover authentic Southern flavors at Lou's Full-Serv in Jackson - where every meal is a celebration of culinary tradition.

Slim Chickens

Discover the ultimate chicken experience at Slim Chickens in Ridgeland—where Southern hospitality meets irresistible flavors.

Arby's

Experience delicious roast beef sandwiches and American deli favorites at Arby's in Ridgeland - your go-to fast food spot!

Half Shell Oyster House Madison

Experience authentic Southern seafood at Half Shell Oyster House Madison, where fresh flavors meet vibrant atmosphere in every dish.

Waffle House

Experience Southern hospitality at Waffle House in Canton, MS – where hearty breakfasts meet family-friendly dining.

Dickey's Barbecue Pit

Experience the best of Southern barbecue at Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Madison - where every bite tells a story.

Chick-fil-A

Savor the taste of Southern fast food at Chick-fil-A, featuring delicious chicken dishes and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Revell Ace Hardware - Reservoir

Discover everything you need for your home improvement projects at Revell Ace Hardware - a local favorite in Brandon, Mississippi.

Tommy's Trading Post

Experience the heart of Mississippi's fishing culture at Tommy's Trading Post, your one-stop shop for all fishing gear and live bait.

Dollar General

Discover incredible deals at Dollar General in Brandon, MS, your one-stop shop for budget-friendly groceries, beauty supplies, and seasonal goods.

Oleta's Gifts Greeks & Baskets

Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Oleta's Gifts, a charming gift shop in Ridgeland, Mississippi, perfect for memorable souvenirs.

Apple Annie's

Explore a world of unique gifts and local treasures at Apple Annie's, the charming gift shop in Brandon, Mississippi.

Main Harbor Store LLC

Discover the Ultimate Boating and Fishing Experience at Main Harbor Store LLC in Ridgeland, Mississippi – Your Gateway to Adventure on the Reservoir!

Rollin Beans Coffee

Experience the warm ambiance and exceptional brews at Rollin Beans Coffee, a favorite spot for tourists and locals in Brandon, Mississippi.

Madison Market Place

Explore Madison Market Place: Your destination for unique gifts and local art in the heart of Madison, Mississippi.

Persnickety

Explore Persnickety in Madison, MS for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of the South.

Apple Annies

Explore Apple Annies in Madison, Mississippi for unique gifts and a taste of local charm, capturing the heart of Southern hospitality.

O! How Cute Gift Market

Explore O! How Cute Gift Market in Brandon, Mississippi for a delightful array of unique gifts and stylish women's clothing that captures local charm.

Pine Cone

Explore the charming Pine Cone gift shop in Ridgeland, Mississippi, for unique crafts, handmade ornaments, and local treasures perfect for souvenirs.

The Shop Around The Corner

Discover unique gifts and personalized treasures at The Shop Around The Corner, a charming gift shop in Madison, MS, perfect for every occasion.

Impromptu

Explore Impromptu, a unique gift shop in Madison, MS, offering local crafts and thoughtful gifts for every occasion.

Trendy Treasures

Explore Trendy Treasures in Ridgeland, MS, for stylish consignment finds, unique home decor, and sustainable shopping experiences.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Shaggy's on the Rez

Experience a delightful fusion of food, drinks, and stunning lakeside views at Shaggy's on the Rez in Brandon, Mississippi.

Cock of the Walk

Discover the flavors of the South at Cock of the Walk - a seafood haven in Ridgeland, Mississippi, where every meal is a celebration.

Mugshots Grill and Bar - Flowood, MS

Experience delicious American cuisine in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere at Mugshots Grill and Bar in Flowood, MS.

Georgia Blue

Indulge in the rich flavors of Southern cuisine at Georgia Blue, where American classics meet a vibrant atmosphere in Flowood, Mississippi.

Mugshots Grill and Bar - Pearl, MS

Discover family-friendly dining with delicious burgers and a sports bar atmosphere at Mugshots Grill and Bar in Pearl, MS.

Pelican Cove Grill

Experience the flavors of the South at Pelican Cove Grill, where casual dining meets scenic waterfront views in Ridgeland, MS.

Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux - Ridgeland Restaurant

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious Southern cuisine at Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, the ultimate sports bar experience in Ridgeland.

LAST CALL Sports Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of LAST CALL Sports Grill in Jackson, MS - where delicious food meets exciting sports action.

The Bulldog, Jackson

Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at The Bulldog, a must-visit bar in Jackson, Mississippi.

M-Bar Sports Lounge

Experience the excitement of sports and a relaxed atmosphere at M-Bar Sports Lounge, Jackson's premier destination for food, drinks, and fun.

Kathryn's Steakhouse and Seafood Restaurant

Experience an unforgettable dining adventure at Kathryn's Steakhouse and Seafood Restaurant, where juicy steaks meet fresh seafood in a welcoming atmosphere.

Dogmud Tavern

Discover the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of Dogmud Tavern in Ridgeland, MS, where every meal is a celebration of Southern culture.

Ely's Restaurant & Bar

Discover the culinary delight of Ely's Restaurant & Bar in Ridgeland, MS, where exquisite steaks and creative cocktails meet an inviting atmosphere.

Caet [seafood I oysterette]

Discover the fresh flavors of the sea at Caet Seafood & Oysterette, where exquisite seafood and a fine wine selection await in Ridgeland, Mississippi.

McB's Bar & Grill

Experience the best of local flavors at McB's Bar & Grill, a lively spot in Ridgeland, Mississippi, perfect for food lovers and entertainment seekers.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Ross Barnett Reservoir

Discover Ross Barnett Reservoir with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Ross Barnett Reservoir

- HelloHowdy
  [h-ow-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez / no problem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me / my bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how yawl doin]
- Fine. And you?Fine. How 'bout you?
  [fine. how bout yah]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak english]
- I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [I aint catchin on]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCould I check out the menu, please
  [could I check out the menu please]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I don't do meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI need to settle up, please
  [I need to settle up please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git!
  [git]
- Call the Police!Ring the Law!
  [ring the law]
- Call a doctor!Fetch a doc!
  [fetch a doc]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feelin poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [I'm fixin to purchase]
- I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [I'm just browsin]
- How much is it?How much does that run?
  [how much does that run]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's a bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do me a deal?
  [can you do me a deal]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrah
  [tomorrah]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out (on the map)?
  [can you point it out on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Ross Barnett Reservoir

The Ross Barnett Reservoir, named after Mississippi Governor Ross R. Barnett, was created in the early 1960s. The massive 33,000-acre lake was formed by damming the Pearl River, with construction beginning in 1960 and completing in 1963. The reservoir was officially dedicated on May 28, 1965, aiming to provide a reliable water supply for the Jackson metropolitan area, recreational opportunities, and flood control for the region.
The reservoir's namesake, Governor Ross Barnett, was a staunch segregationist, making the reservoir a symbolic site during the Civil Rights Movement. Barnett's administration was marked by significant resistance to the desegregation of schools and public facilities, most notably during the integration of the University of Mississippi by James Meredith in 1962. The reservoir's association with Barnett has sparked debate and reflection on the state’s complex racial history.
The creation of the Ross Barnett Reservoir significantly impacted the local ecosystem. Before its creation, the Pearl River was a natural habitat for diverse wildlife. Post-construction, the reservoir became a major recreational spot, fostering an environment for boating, fishing, and bird watching. It also created new wetlands and played a crucial role in the migration patterns of various bird species, making it an important ecological site.
Since its completion, the Ross Barnett Reservoir has been a catalyst for economic development in the surrounding areas. It spurred growth in real estate, tourism, and local businesses. The reservoir hosts numerous annual events, including fishing tournaments, boat races, and cultural festivals, attracting visitors from across the region and contributing significantly to the local economy.
The Ross Barnett Reservoir is a hub of cultural and recreational activities. It offers a wide range of recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. The Reservoir also houses the Mississippi Petrified Forest and the Natchez Trace Parkway, both of which provide historical and educational experiences, enriching the cultural fabric of the region.
The construction of the Ross Barnett Reservoir was an impressive engineering feat of its time. The Pearl River was dammed near the small community of Goshen Springs, creating a reservoir with over 105 miles of shoreline. The main dam is 3.5 miles long and 50 feet high, designed to hold back 600,000 acre-feet of water. The project required the relocation of several communities, roadways, and even cemeteries, reflecting the extensive planning and effort involved in its creation.

Ross Barnett Reservoir Essentials

Ross Barnett Reservoir is located in central Mississippi, near the state capital, Jackson. The nearest major airport is Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN), which is approximately 20 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to the reservoir. Alternatively, if you are driving, the reservoir is easily accessible via Interstate 55 and U.S. Highway 25.
While having a car provides the most flexibility for exploring Ross Barnett Reservoir, there are other transportation options. Local taxi services and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft operate in the area. For those looking to explore the reservoir by water, there are several marinas offering boat rentals. Bicycle rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore the scenic trails around the reservoir.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most establishments around the reservoir, including restaurants, shops, and gas stations. ATMs are available in nearby towns, such as Ridgeland and Madison, so it is easy to withdraw cash if needed.
Ross Barnett Reservoir is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings. Some areas in nearby Jackson have higher crime rates, so it is best to avoid walking alone at night in those neighborhoods. Popular areas around the reservoir, such as the parks and marinas, are typically very safe.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is St. Dominic Hospital in Jackson, which is approximately a 20-minute drive from the reservoir. It is advisable to carry a first aid kit and have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. There are also several pharmacies in the nearby towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you plan on hiking or engaging in water activities. Avoid overly revealing clothing when in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly in nearby towns. Public Transport: Do respect others and keep noise to a minimum on public transportation. Don't litter. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'how are you?' as Southern hospitality is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southern cuisine. Don't forget to tip your server, as tipping is customary in the United States.
To experience Ross Barnett Reservoir like a local, visit the local marinas and engage with the boating community. Fishing is a popular activity, so consider getting a fishing license and trying your luck. Visit the local farmers' markets in nearby towns for fresh produce and local crafts. Attend community events and festivals, which are a great way to meet locals and learn more about the culture and history of the area.

The Scenic Beauty of Ross Barnett Reservoir

Local tips in Ross Barnett Reservoir