Okatoma Creek

Okatoma Creek is a Creek swimming destination near Seminary and Hattiesburg in Mississippi. Locals and paddlers know it for clear water, sandy banks, and the popular float run that starts in Seminary and works downstream toward Sanford. The authentic public swim and put-in spot is the landing at the Hwy 590 / East Main Street bridge in Seminary: a public approach with a boat ramp and roomy sandbar. From there you can wade, swim, picnic on the sand, or launch a canoe or kayak. Hardwoods and pines shade the corridor, and the current stays lively enough to feel like a real creek swim without needing a resort setting. Downstream, commercial outfitters run shuttle and rental trips on the Seminary-to-Sanford stretch. a Class I, II float with small falls when levels cooperate. Those outfitter landings are private and fee-based; they are not the free public access described on this page. Treat Okatoma Creek as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and conditions that change with rain. Respect private property along the banks. If a road or driveway looks residential, it is not public creek access.

Okatoma Creek works well as a day trip from Hattiesburg, Seminary, or Sanford. Stock up in town, then head to the public Hwy 590 landing with food, water, and sun protection. For a longer float with shuttle support, contact a local outfitter such as Okatoma Outdoor Post or Seminary Canoe Rental. Combine the swim with Black Creek Swimming Holes, Mississippi or browse more Mississippi creek spots in our directory. For the full list in Mississippi, see our state directory.

Public access is at the Hwy 590 / East Main Street bridge in Seminary: a Mississippi public boat ramp and sandbar. Park only in the public landing area. Do not use Cherry Avenue, school lots, or private driveways. those are not public creek access and have led visitors onto private property. No restrooms or trash cans at the landing itself. Outfitter facilities downstream are for paying customers.

The name Okatoma is commonly linked to Choctaw roots referring to shining or bright water. The creek is part of south Mississippi’s paddling tradition and the broader Pascagoula River watershed.

Follow Leave No Trace. Pack out trash, stay off posted private land, and avoid damaging banks or vegetation at the public landing. Respect local landowners — wrong-way GPS pins and driveway parking are a real problem here.