🌤 Weather at Shepard State Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50–84 °F | 71–91 °F | 47–88 °F | 41–66 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Pascagoula Lott Intl Airport, 7 mi away, elevation 18 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🌿 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, operated by the City of Gautier since 2013, 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 | Best for small and medium 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 | Per-vehicle fee | Amount not posted online; annual pass $42 |
| RV Site (full hookup) | Rate shown when booking | 38 sites with water, electricity and septic |
Fees and rates: Shepard State Park (City of Gautier), checked October 2026.
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
Park policy: Shepard State Park is operated by the City of Gautier, which asks guests to keep pets on a leash and pick up after them. Trails are open to leashed dogs, and an enclosed Bark Park lets dogs run (shepardstatepark.com).
- Pets allowed?
- Leashed pets welcome; fenced dog park on site
Are dogs allowed at Shepard State Park?
Leashed pets welcome; fenced dog park on site.
More: Mississippi state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Map
Plan your gear for Shepard State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
