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ForestMatters, LLC

Davis Lake Short Loop

Tombigbee National Forest, Mississippi · 3 min read

Distance
2 mi
Elevation Gain
50 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
Year-round
Est. Time
45-60 minutes
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 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

  • Short and accessible walk near the Davis Lake swimming beach
  • Lake views and fishing access throughout
  • Flush restrooms and full facilities at the campground
  • Good combination with swimming at the beach
  • The easiest hiking option in Tombigbee National Forest
lakeswimmingwildlife

Overview

Davis Lake Short Loop is the quickest way to experience Tombigbee National Forest's primary recreation area, circling 2 miles through the campground and swimming beach area at Davis Lake. The loop is the most accessible hike in the forest, with flush restrooms at the trailhead, paved parking, and consistent lake views throughout. It pairs naturally with a day at the beach or a fishing session at the lake.

No permit is required. Year-round access.

The Route

The loop: Starting from the campground parking, the trail follows the lake's northern shore past the swimming beach and picnic area, then through mixed hardwood and pine forest before returning to the parking area. The beach and boat launch are visible from the trail throughout the first half. The return section is slightly more wooded and provides a different perspective on the lake.

When to Visit

Year-round. Summer is peak for the swimming beach combination. Spring and fall bring bird activity and comfortable temperatures. Winter is mild and quiet.

What to Bring

Sunscreen for the lake shore sections. Water from the campground. Swimsuit and towel if planning to use the beach.

Trailhead Access

Davis Lake Campground is reached via MS-15 from Houston and forest roads.

Nearby

The full Davis Lake Trail (4.5 miles) circles the entire lake. The Tombigbee Earthworks Trail is the forest's Civil War history hike. Review the Leave No Trace seven principles before visiting.

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.

The America the Beautiful pass covers day-use fees at developed recreation areas throughout the national forest system. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in the veteran benefits guide.

East Texas national forests experience hot and humid conditions from May through September, with mosquito and tick activity year-round. Checking the Leave No Trace seven principles before any visit helps preserve the forest for the next visitor.

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.

The America the Beautiful pass covers day-use fees at developed recreation areas throughout the national forest system. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in the veteran benefits guide.

East Texas national forests experience hot and humid conditions from May through September, with mosquito and tick activity year-round. Checking the Leave No Trace seven principles before any visit helps preserve the forest for the next visitor.

Trailhead Parking

Davis Lake Campground parking area. Paved. Flush restrooms. No day-use fee.

← Back to Tombigbee National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does this differ from the full Davis Lake Trail?
The Davis Lake Short Loop (2 miles) covers the campground and beach area, while the full Davis Lake Trail (4.5 miles) circles the entire lake perimeter. The short loop is appropriate for families with young children or visitors who want a brief walk before or after swimming. The full loop gives a more complete lake experience.
Is this trail appropriate for very young children?
Yes. The 2-mile loop is flat and well-maintained, with restrooms at the trailhead. It is the most accessible hiking option in Tombigbee National Forest. Younger children enjoy the lake views and the proximity to the swimming beach.
Is there shade on the Davis Lake Short Loop?
The loop passes through sections of mixed hardwood that provide shade, and sections of open lake shore that are exposed. Summer visitors should carry sunscreen for the lake shore sections and plan hikes for morning hours.