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Davis Lake Trail

Tombigbee National Forest, Mississippi · 3 min read

Distance
4.5 mi
Elevation Gain
150 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
Year-round
Est. Time
1.5-2.5 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
2 / 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

  • Davis Lake, a 95-acre reservoir with consistent lake views from the trail
  • Swimming beach adjacent to the campground
  • Largemouth bass and crappie fishing from the shoreline
  • Mixed hardwood and pine forest framing the lake
  • Accessible loop suitable for a wide range of visitors
lakewildlifeswimming

Overview

Davis Lake Trail loops 4.5 miles around the primary recreation lake in Tombigbee National Forest, offering consistent lake views, fishing access, and connection to the swimming beach at the campground. The lake is the main attraction in this small east-central Mississippi forest, and the surrounding trail gives it the appropriate frame: mixed hardwood and pine forest, bird activity on the water surface, and the quiet that comes from being in a forest most visitors from Tupelo or Columbus drive past without stopping.

No permit is required for day hiking. Dogs are welcome on leash.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Western shore. The trail follows the western lakeside from the campground with the lake visible throughout. Ospreys fish the lake surface in warmer months. The trail passes through denser pine sections before emerging back to the open shore.

Miles 2 to 3: Southern end. The trail crosses the dam area and follows the southern shore, with views back toward the campground beach.

Miles 3 to 4.5: Eastern shore return. The eastern section returns to the campground through mixed hardwood, with a short climb over the low ridge between the lake and the surrounding upland before descending to the boat launch area.

When to Hike

Year-round. Each season offers something different. Summer is peak for swimming and fishing. Spring and fall are the most comfortable for hiking. Winter is mild and quiet.

What to Bring

Water from the campground, sunscreen for the lake sections, binoculars for the water birds, and a fishing license if planning to fish.

Trailhead Access

Davis Lake Campground is reached via MS-15 south of Houston and forest roads. The campground entrance is signed.

Nearby

The Tombigbee Earthworks Trail accesses the Civil War fortification remnants in the forest. The Witch Dance Horse Trail is the forest's main multi-use 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.

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 day-use area. Paved parking. Restrooms on-site. No day-use fee for hiking.

← Back to Tombigbee National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Davis Lake good for swimming?
Yes. Davis Lake has a designated swimming beach adjacent to the campground. The lake is a popular swimming destination for families from the Houston and Tupelo areas. There is no lifeguard; swimming is at your own judgment. The lake bottom is sandy in the swimming area.
What fish are in Davis Lake?
Davis Lake supports largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The lake is a managed fishing resource and attracts regular anglers. Shore fishing from the trail and campground is productive. Boat fishing with small craft is also possible from the boat launch. A valid Mississippi fishing license is required.
How difficult is the Davis Lake Trail?
The trail is rated easy. The 4.5-mile loop has minimal elevation gain (150 feet) spread across the full circuit. The trail surface is generally maintained and the lake views keep the walk engaging throughout. Most hikers complete the loop in 1.5 to 2.5 hours.