National Forests in Mississippi
About Us National Forests
in Mississippi
100 W. Capitol Street
Suite 1141
Jackson, MS. 39269
601-965-1600
Bienville National Forest Homepage 
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Frequently Asked Questions 
***PEST ALERT***
DON'T MOVE FIREWOOD !!!
Our forests are threatened by nonnative insects and diseases that can kill large numbers of trees. Three recently introduced insects–emerald ash borer, Asian longhorned beetle, and Sirex woodwasp–are wood-infesting species that can be transported long distances in firewood. Once transported into new areas, these insects can become established and kill local trees. We must stop the spread of these insects and protect our forests and trees. Read More...
Welcome to Bienville National Forest
3473 Hwy. 35 South
Forest, MS 39074
(601) 469-3811
(601) 469-1076 TTY
Located in Central Mississippi, the Bienville National Forest offers the visitor a variety of recreational opportunities during all seasons of the year. Interstate 20 routes through the forest and allows easy and convenient access for many travelers who might want to take a rest stop or tour the forest. We have over 178,00 acres that are managed for wildlife, recreation, timber and other various activities.
Location: The Bienville Ranger District Office is located in Forest, MS, one mile south of I-20. Forest is located approximately 45 miles East of Jackson, MS and approximately 45 miles West of Meridian, MS.
Directions To Ranger District Office: Take the Forest Exit (#88) off of I-20. Go South on State Hwy 35 for one mile. Office will be on right.
Office Operating Hours: Open Monday through Friday 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM CST. Closed on all Federal holidays.
About the Beinville Ranger District
Located in South Central Mississippi, the Bienville National Forest has much to offer the recreationist. There are many quiet and secluded areas, in addition to the developed recreation sites.
The Bienville National Forest was established in 1934 and now contains over 178,000 acres located in Scott, Smith, Jasper and Newton Counties. The land was primarily acquired from timber companies and was cut-over land in need of reforestation, soil conservation and protection from wildfire. The U.S. Forest Service, along with help from programs such as the old CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps), replanted and reclaimed these areas. Much of the timber now being harvested is a result from these early plantings.
The area has a humid subtropical climate and receives approximately 60 inches of annual precipitation. The land form is generally flat to gently rolling and is below 500 feet above sea level.
We invite you to visit the Bienville National Forest. There is something for everyone—nature walks, hiking, bicycling, hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding and many other educational and recreation activities.
Recreational Activities Spotlight
Marathon Lake and Shongelo Lake are the primary recreation areas in the Bienville National Forest with activities ranging from picnicing to fishing. More detailed information about these and other sites can be found by visiting the Bienville NF Recreational Activities page.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
For information, directions, rules, fees, maps, and other information about the Bienville WMA, the Caney Creek WMA, and the Tallahala WMA visit the Wildlife Management Area page .
Things To Do
Local Area Attractions
The Bienville National Forest is located near both Meridian, Mississippi and Forest, Mississippi; Meridian being the largest of the two. Go to the Local Area Attractions page for links to web sites that provide information on available businesses and activities near the National Forest.
Last Modified: Wednesday, January 28, 2009 7:55 AM