About Outlet Channel Day Use
Overview Outlet Channel Day Use Area sits along Arkabutla Lake and Dam in the hills of northwest Mississippi. The dam project is on the Coldwater River and offers some of the best sailing east of the Mississippi River. Recreation Families come to Arkabutla Lake to enjoy the great outdoors by fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and biking. Wildlife management areas around Arkabutla Lake boast a combined 30,000 acres of public hunting lands where whitetail deer, wild turkeys, quail and waterfowl roam. Several trails wind around the lake and throughout the nearby landscape. The Coldwater River Nature Trail System encompasses two hiking trails as well as an interpretive trail that helps educate hikers on the wildlife and ecosystem. The Swinging Bridge Nature Trail is also nearby, and includes a section of land that was part of the river prior to the dam being built. This trail is also an interpretive educational trail. Thousands of people each year visit Arkabutla Lake to go fishing. The lake is home to several species of native fish to Mississippi waters, such as largemouth bass, bream, catfish and crappie. Facilities The Outlet Channel has a tent camping area, access to the Swinging Bridge Nature Trail and the Coldwater Trail system. There is also a newly constructed playground, fishing at the outlet channel, individual picnic sites and a group picnic shelter. Natural Features The pavilion is situated on the riverfront, among rolling hills forested with a shady mixture of oak, hickory, beech, sweet gum and birch trees.
How to Get There
The Outlet Channel Recreation area is located just off Scenic Loop 304 on the bottom side of Arkabutla Dam.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Outlet Channel Day Use
Heading to Outlet Channel Day Use? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Outlet Channel Day Use?
No central reservation system listed for Outlet Channel Day Use. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10122572) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Outlet Channel Day Use?
The Outlet Channel Recreation area is located just off Scenic Loop 304 on the bottom side of Arkabutla Dam.
How do I contact Outlet Channel Day Use?
You can reach the park at phone: (662)562-6261 or email: Arkabutla.Lake@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
