Located in the southeast region of Mississippi known as the Pine Belt, charming Ellisville offers a variety of things to do. From browsing the historic district to boating and fishing on Lake Bogue Homa to perusing art galleries, Ellisville has something for everyone. Best Western Ellisville Mississippi.
Things to do in Ellisville
Big Creek Water Park
Big Creek Water Park is a 150-acre lake with developed campsites which offers year round fishing, jet skiing, camping, picnicking, swimming, hiking, and boating. Call 601-763-8555 for more information.
De Soto National Forest
The De Soto National Forest is the largest forest district in Mississippi with 378,538 acres. Ample year-round recreation opportunities are available for the hiker, bicyclist, camper, canoeist, ATV rider, horse enthusiast, hunter and fisherman. Vast expanses of national forest lands are perfect settings for bird watching, nature study and meditation. Visitors who seek solitude will be able to find it within one of the De Soto's two wilderness areas, the Black Creek or Leaf. Black Creek, Mississippi's only National Scenic River, is famous for its wide, white sandbars and relaxed floating pace. 170 miles of trails in De Soto are available for hikers, ATV riders, mountain bike riders, and horse riders. Call 601-928-4422 for more information.
Deason Home
Built in the 1840's, the Deason Home is Jones County's oldest home and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built from hand hewn pine, the house has a unique hexagon shaped entrance. In 1863 Confederate officer Major Amos Mclemore was murdered in the house by the notorious Newt Knight, a Confederate deserter. Located at the corner of Deason Street & Anderson Street. Call for an appointment. Call 601-477-8646 for more information.
Jones County Junior College
Jones County Junior College is a two-year institution that has been an important part of the Ellisville community since its early beginnings as an agricultural high school in 1911. Located at 900 S. Court Street. Call 601-477-4000 for more information.
Lake Bogue Homa
Lake Bogue Homa is a 1,200 acre lake well stocked with bass, bream and channel catfish. In addition to fishing, the lake offers areas for skiing and swimming. Facilities include concessions, restrooms, picnic tables, a boat ramp, camping with electrical/water hookups, and rental boats. Located about 6 miles east of Laurel in Jones County on US 84. Call 601-425-2148 for more information.
Landrum's Homestead
Landrum's Homestead is a living history museum where history is brought to life with over 50 buildings and displays set amidst ten acres of lush pecan trees and cool streams. One of the highlights of the museum is an 1871 watermill gristmill. Located on Highway 15 South, 4.5 miles off I-59 Exit 96B in Laurel. Call 601-649-2546 for more information.
Lauren Rogers Museum of Art
Opened in 1923, the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art was Mississippi's first museum. Today it is considered one of the South's premiere galleries. The museum draws approximately 40,000 visitors annually from all over the country. Some of the highlights of the museum include collections of European and American art, Native American baskets, English Georgian silver, and Japanese woodblock prints, as well as an extensive art history library. Located at 565 N. Fifth Avenue in Laurel. Call 601-649-6374 for more information.
Merchant's Park Sports Complex
Located just outside of Ellisville, the Merchant's Park Sports Complex hosts many of Jones County's recreational events, including, baseball, softball, and tennis. Located on Highway 29. Call 601-477-9440 for more information.
Trapper's Gator Farm
Trapper's Gator Farm offers a unique look at rural Mississippi. Visitors can see a variety of exotic animals that are native to southern Mississippi, including a black bear, a lion, cougars, raccoons, fox, deer, goats, turtles and many alligators. Located off Highway 15 South. Call 601-428-4967 for more information.