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ForestMatters, LLC

Lake Mike Conner Loop

Bienville National Forest, Mississippi · 3 min read

Distance
5 mi
Elevation Gain
200 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
October through April
Est. Time
2-3 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
3 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
At Trailhead
Camping
Developed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Lake Mike Conner, a 315-acre bass-fishing reservoir
  • Loop trail with consistent lake views on the western shore section
  • Good birding for ospreys, herons, and woodland songbirds
  • Fishing access throughout the shoreline sections
  • Pleasant, low-key hiking with year-round access
lakewildlifeswimming

Overview

Lake Mike Conner Loop circles a 315-acre reservoir in the central section of Bienville National Forest, offering 5 miles of easy-moderate hiking with consistent lake views and fishing access. The lake and surrounding recreation area are a popular destination for central Mississippi visitors seeking a day trip with multiple activity options: hiking, fishing, and paddling all combine here on a manageable loop. No permit is required for day hiking.

The terrain has modest elevation change, with short climbs over the low ridges between the lake shoreline and the surrounding forest. October through April is the most comfortable season for hiking.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: Western shore section. The trail follows the western shoreline closely for the first two miles, with the lake visible throughout and several access points to the water for fishing or a rest. Osprey frequently hunt the surface here. The western shore section is the most scenic and the most popular with birders.

Miles 2.0 to 3.5: Forest interior. The trail swings into the forest interior, losing sight of the lake for roughly a mile. Mixed pine and hardwood dominate here, with open views through the trees in winter. Deer tracks are common on the trail surface.

Miles 3.5 to 5.0: Eastern shore return. The final section follows the eastern shore back to the recreation area, passing the dam and returning to the parking area near the boat launch.

When to Hike

October through April is the best window. Fall brings good waterfowl activity on the lake. Winter is quiet and mild. Spring brings songbird activity in the surrounding forest.

Summer: Hot and humid but manageable with an early start. The lake recreation area is busiest on summer weekends with anglers.

What to Bring

Water from the trailhead, sunscreen for the open lake sections, and binoculars for lake birding. A fishing license and tackle if planning to fish from the shoreline.

Trailhead Access

Lake Mike Conner Recreation Area is reached via forest roads in the central section of Bienville National Forest. The recreation area is signed from US-80 and nearby county roads. Flush restrooms are available at the recreation area.

Nearby

The Marathon Lake Loop is a similar short lake loop in another part of the forest. The Shockaloe Trail is the forest's primary long-distance route. Review the Leave No Trace seven principles before your visit.

Before any outing in East Texas national forest terrain, review the checking conditions guide for current information on trail conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife alerts from official USFS sources.

Trailhead Parking

Lake Mike Conner Recreation Area parking. Paved lot near boat launch. Restrooms on-site. No fee for day hiking.

← Back to Bienville National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of fishing is available at Lake Mike Conner?
Lake Mike Conner supports largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake is a managed fishing resource and a popular destination for central Mississippi anglers. Shore fishing is accessible from multiple points along the loop trail. A valid Mississippi fishing license is required. The boat launch at the recreation area is open to small boats and kayaks.
Is Lake Mike Conner Loop good year-round?
Yes. The mild Mississippi winters make the loop accessible in all months. Fall and winter offer the best birding with waterfowl on the lake. Spring and fall are the most comfortable hiking temperatures. Summer mornings before 10am are manageable even in the humid heat.
Can I kayak or canoe on Lake Mike Conner?
Yes. The boat launch at the recreation area is open to non-motorized boats and small motorized watercraft. Paddling the lake perimeter is a popular way to experience the same shoreline that the trail overlooks. Rental equipment is not available on-site; bring your own.