East Central Mississippi is home to many natural and historical sites for exploring and discovering! The combination of small towns and southern hospitality has continued to make East Central Mississippi a go-to destination for people who are looking to get away from the large cities and
- Some of the things to do include:
- Hunting
- Fishing
- Visiting Historical Sites/ Sight Seeing
- Dining
- Shopping
Hunting In East Central Mississippi
When it comes to hunting, Kemper County and surrounding counties have a great reputation for small and large game hunting. This includes; squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, turkey, and of course, deer. There are several local hunting clubs to join and plots of land for sale or lease. We also have several local meat processors offering everything from ground meat to summer sausage!
Fishing East Central Mississippi
Kemper Lake: (pictured here) is located in Kemper County and is home to several fish species such as; Bluegill, Crappie, Bream, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Spotted Bass, and Redear. This beautiful 595-acre lake is located 3 miles NE of DeKalb off of highway 397. Kemper Lake also offers several recreation areas, including a campground (for tents and campers), docks, walking trails, pavilions for events, and picnic areas with tables.
Okatibbee Lake: This is an 11,000-acre multi-purpose project maintained by The Corps of Engineers and offers a full-service campground with three designated swimming areas and four boat ramps. Located conveniently in Collinsville, this lake has easy access from almost any point in East Central Mississippi. There’s an additional 6,900 acres of land and flooded woodlands for trail walking and wildlife viewing. Much of the same species of fish are the same as Kemper Lake.
Bonita Lake: Located near the heart of Meridian is a 3,300-acre lake that activities anywhere from fishing to trail riding with horses. The Bonita Lake park also has activities such as exercising, picnicking, bird watching, mountain biking, hiking and was the first place in Mississippi to have a hidden Geocache (for GPS enabled devices).
Dalewood Shore Lake: Located in Lauderdale off highway 45, we have the exclusive Dalewood Shore Lake. This 905-acre lake houses a great community of families and individuals that come together to enjoy what life has to offer. Home to many different species of fish, this lake is a fisherman’s paradise. Dalewood Shore Lake is a private gated community, so you’ll either need to be a resident or a pass from a current resident to enter the lake. Ask our team today about our listings in this hidden gem of a community!
Archusa Creek Lake: Next, we have this 450-acre lake located in Quitman, Mississippi and is home to large quantities of bass, catfish, perch, bream, and more! This lake is a great place to bring the whole family and offers activities such as; camping, fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking.
Historical Sights And Sight Seeing East Central Mississippi
Sciple’s Water Mill
Built-in 1790 and still in operation today this hidden site in Kemper County offers a step back in time with its rustic atmosphere and old-world operation as well as a great view of the Running Tiger Creek. The mill is only in operation on Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM but products such as cornmeal and others can be purchased seven days a week (while supplies last) on a cash box basis. The mill is operated by a 4th generation family member and their products are growing in popularity.
Kemper County Historical Museum
The Kemper County Museum in DeKalb shows a glimpse of the past for East Central Mississippi and has many interesting articles from a time when US Senator John C. Stennis was in office, he was the longest standing senator in US history. The museum is open by appointment only, contact Kemper County at (601) 743-5060 to find out more.
Veteran’s Memorial Engraved Walkway
Located in front of the historic Kemper County Courthouse in DeKalb these bricks are available for purchase by individuals at $50 each, this covers the cost of the brick, engraving, and laying. But the majority of the bricks contain the name, rank, branch of service, war, and period of service.
Dentzel Carousel – Meridian
Located in Highland Park Meridian the Dentzel Carousel is one of only a few two-row Dentzel menagerie carousels left in the world. The incredible hand-painted work of are was purchased for only $2,000 in 1909 and is worth over $1 million today. Take a spin on it for only 50 cents.
Merrehope
This beauty of a building was one of only a few that was spared by the Union in the civil war. Located in Meridian it’s quite an interesting sight to see and gives a great glimpse into history.
Philadelphia-Neshoba County Historical Museum
Located at 303 Water Ave in Philadelphia this museum showcases many artifacts from the civil war, locally acclaimed musicians, and the Neshoba County Fair.
Nanih Waiya Mound
Located just a mile into Winston County from Neshoba County the ancient mound is an archaeological masterpiece that was constructed by indigenous people around 300 to 600 CE. Since the 17th century, the Choctaw have venerated the mound and the nearby cave as their sacred origin location.
Dining East Central Mississippi
A Taste Of Heaven
Located in the heart of Kemper County in downtown DeKalb is this hidden gem of a restaurant. You can find many locals eating here for lunch and they feature the best of good southern cooking on the menu.
Handy Mart – DeKalb
Located across the street from the Kemper County Courthouse this small-town gas station is well-known in the area for its fried chicken and sides. It’s not uncommon for there to be a line out the door during the lunch rush!
Corner Fast Food – DeKalb
Also located in DeKalb is the Corner Fast Food. Serving up many home-cooked meals such as greens, PO-boys, turkey necks, and smoked pigtails.
Blakes Seafood – Philadelphia
Serving up some of the best seafood in the state this low-key eatery is located in Philadelphia and is sure to soothe your seafood cravings!
Phillip M’s – Philadelphia
Located at the Pearl River Resort and Casino is one of Mississippis best fine dining restaurants. Awarded with the Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence Phillip M’s is a food destination that should be on everyone’s list.
The Rustler – Meridian
If you’re in the mood for high-quality fine dining then The Rustler is an excellent choice. The semi-casual atmosphere of this restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a fantastic steak over some candlelight.
Weidmann’s – Meridian
Widemann’s has been offering fine dining to East Central Mississippi since 1870 and features delicious menu items such as shrimp n’ grits, premium steak cuts, fried green tomatoes, and much more! This highly raved about restaurant doubles as a historical site worth seeing.