🌿 395 Acres of Gulf Coast Forest with a 1,100-Foot Marsh Boardwalk — A wooded retreat near Pascagoula with full-hookup camping, disc golf, archery, dog park, and wildlife viewing along the Singing River — Jackson County, Mississippi
Shepard State Park is a 395-acre wooded retreat on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast near Gautier, set in the heart of “Singing River” country — named for the Pascagoula River’s legendary hum that local lore attributes to an ancient Pascagoula tribal chant. Unlike the region’s beach parks, Shepard offers a forested, inland experience while remaining just minutes from the Gulf Coast’s barrier islands, Biloxi casinos, and Ocean Springs art district.
The park’s signature feature is its 1,100-foot raised marsh boardwalk over Lamotte Bayou, where visitors can spot herons, egrets, turtles, and alligators from an elevated vantage point. Combined with 38 full-hookup RV campsites, an 18-hole disc golf course, archery range, and dedicated dog park, Shepard provides a surprisingly complete outdoor experience for its size.
What to Do
| Activity | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marsh Boardwalk | 1,100 ft raised walkway | Lamotte Bayou — birds, turtles, gators |
| Camping | 38 sites, full hookups | Water/electric/sewer, bathhouse, fire rings |
| Disc Golf | 18-hole course | Wooded terrain, bring discs |
| Archery Range | Open range | Bring own equipment |
| Dog Park | Fenced off-leash area | Separate areas for large/small dogs |
| Nature Trails | Hiking/biking loops | Through pine and hardwood forest |
| Boat Launch | Small ramp | Access to local waterways |
| Playground | Family area | Near pavilion |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | 65–82°F | Wildflowers, birding, comfortable camping |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 85–95°F | Full facilities, humid — mosquitoes active |
| Fall (Oct–Nov) | 60–78°F | Best weather, migratory birds, fewer bugs |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 45–60°F | Mild, quiet camping, nearby Gulf beaches |
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Day Use | $4/vehicle | Waived for registered campers |
| RV Site (full hookup) | $20–$25/night | 38 sites, fire ring, picnic table |
| Day Trip | $4 | Boardwalk + disc golf + trails |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a beach?
Not at the park. Shepard is a forested inland park. Gulf Coast beaches at Ocean Springs, Biloxi, and the Barrier Islands are 15–30 minutes away.
What is the marsh boardwalk?
A 1,100-foot elevated wooden walkway over Lamotte Bayou wetlands. Excellent for bird and wildlife viewing — herons, egrets, alligators, and turtles are common.
Are there alligators?
Yes. Alligators inhabit the bayou and can be seen from the boardwalk. Keep a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
What’s the “Singing River”?
The Pascagoula River is nicknamed the “Singing River” for a mysterious humming sound heard along its banks. Local legend attributes it to the chanting of Pascagoula people. The phenomenon has never been definitively explained.
How far from Biloxi?
About 25 miles (30 minutes) east via US-90.
Is the disc golf course good?
Yes. 18 holes through wooded terrain — well-maintained and popular with locals. Bring your own discs.
Do I need reservations?
Recommended for weekends and holidays. Reserve online at shepardstatepark.com or call 228-497-2244.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Buccaneer State Park (elsewhere in the state) and Paul B. Johnson State Park (elsewhere in the state).
🌿 Gulf Coast Forest Retreat
1,100 feet of marsh boardwalk, full-hookup camping, disc golf, archery, and a dog park — all in a quiet 395-acre forest minutes from the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Shepard State Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in designated areas of Mississippi state parks only and must be restrained on a leash.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Adequate leash not more than six feet long required.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- No pets are allowed in or around the swimming pool areas or lake beach areas.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are forbidden in and around the overnight lodging areas (cabins, cottages, motels, villas) — no pet-friendly cabin program.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets that disturb guests will be removed from the park; pets may not be left unattended.
Are dogs allowed at Shepard State Park?
Pets are allowed in designated areas of Mississippi state parks only and must be restrained on a leash. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via mdwfp.com. More: Mississippi state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
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