A variety of interests come together at Ross Barnett Reservoir: activities available there include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, wildlife watching and fishing. There are also trails along the reservoir for hiking, cycling and walking. Visitors can access the reservoir via 33 boat ramps and two kayak launches.
Water, Trails and Scenery
The Reservoir Overlook offers sweeping views of the 33,000-acre Barnett Reservoir and wildlife such as alligators and various waterfowl. The Natchez Trace Parkway is designated as a bicycle route, giving cyclists their own way to experience the landscape.
At Upper Choctaw Boundary, there is a short, self-guided interpretive walk. From there, hikers can access the Yockanookany section of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail. Upper Choctaw Boundary is designated as a Native American site and as a trailhead. The Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail in Ridgeland offers a different scale: It is almost 10 miles long and runs along the Natchez Trace Parkway. While Upper Choctaw features a short interpretive walk, the Chisha Foka Trail stands out for its length.
The National Park Service designated Mississippi Petrified Forest a Registered National Natural Landmark in 1966.
History and Culture in Canton
The Canton Courthouse Square District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. The historic Madison County Courthouse and its surroundings are also the setting for the Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show. The market takes place twice a year, on the second Thursday in May and October, and lasts one day. More than 1,100 artists and craftspeople showcase handmade goods such as pottery, jewelry and other arts and crafts. The number of participants may vary; check the dates before your trip.
The annual Canton Christmas Festival lights up historic Canton Square with seasonal attractions, photo opportunities and activities for families. Food trucks and Santa’s Cookie Stop are also part of the offerings; vendors and food may vary. The annual Mississippi Championship Hot Air Balloon Fest in Canton features balloon launches and evening balloon glows. Event dates and programs may change, so check the latest information before your trip.
Several places tell the story of history and community in different ways. Canton Freedom House is the last surviving CORE Freedom House in Mississippi. Tours of the Canton Freedom House Civil Rights and Multicultural Museum are available by appointment; arrange your visit in advance. The permanent exhibit at the Canton Multicultural Center and Museum explores the history, family life, business and community life of African Americans and recounts their struggle for civil rights.
The Canton Museum of History displays artifacts from businesses and commercial enterprises, including an antique butter churn and a bank teller’s adding machine. Scenes from A Time to Kill are preserved at the Canton Film Museums. Sister Thea Bowman’s house, meanwhile, was built in the early 20th century: additions transformed the traditional shotgun house into a single-story bungalow.
Old Madison County Jail is also architecturally notable. It is considered one of Mississippi’s most outstanding and best-preserved 19th-century jail complexes and an example of post-Civil War architecture with domestic and institutional features.
Practical Information
The gallery at Bill Waller Craft Center is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; it is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and July 4. Check the hours before your trip.
Discover more destinations: Ridgeland, Canton, Covington, Clay, Panola, Harrison, Lafayette, Union County.
Return to the main travel overview: Mississippi.
