We spent an ideal weekend getaway kayaking, nature watching, and camping under the stars, at Davis Bayou part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Let me tell you, it was an experience we really enjoyed. This peaceful Mississippi find is just what couples need—a perfect combination of fun and rest—minus the people. Our Davis Bayou weekend retreat guarantees an amazing outdoor vacation, whether you glide through calm marshes or relax by a campfire. This National Seashore offers lots of things to keep you busy.
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Gulf Islands National Seashore is unique in that it spans two states—Florida and Mississippi. But unlike many multi-state parks, its units are not physically connected. The distance between the two is considerable—over 100 miles by car and 70 miles by boat—separated by the state of Alabama. This geographic divide means that the Mississippi and Florida sections of the park function almost as two distinct entities. Each park attracts a different group of visitors.
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Things to Know Planning Your Davis Bayou Weekend Retreat
If you’re planning a trip to Davis Bayou, one of the most beautiful parts of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, here’s a quick guide to help you prepare
- Location: Davis Bayou Area is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore, near Ocean Springs, Mississippi. By Car: ~2 hours from New Orleans, ~1 hour from Biloxi. During our Southern Road Trip, we travelled from Natchez, Mississippi, to the campground, taking ~4 hours.
- Park Hours: The Davis Bayou area is open year-round. Be sure to check with park rangers for any seasonal closures or hours changes. The William M. Colmer Visitor Center is open daily: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
- Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for Gulf Islands National Seashore is typically $25 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. If you plan on visiting multiple times or staying longer, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Annual Pass for $80. The pass provides access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country.
- Pets Allowed: Davis Bayou is pet-friendly, and your furry companions are welcome in the park! However, pets must always be on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet. Restrictions: Pets are not allowed on certain beaches or trails within the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
- Best Time to Visit: is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and abundant wildlife. Summers can be hot/humid, but it’s still a great time for water activities.
- Campground Reservations: If you’re planning to camp at the Davis Bayou Campground, make sure to reserve your site ahead of time. Especially during peak seasons (spring and fall). Reservations can be made through the official Recreation.gov website.
- Fishing License: If you’re fishing, you’ll need a Mississippi state fishing license.
Arriving at Davis Bayou Campground
When we got to Davis Bayou Campground, we were happy to discover that it was really quiet. It was a significant shift from the loud highway near Ocean Springs. This was a large difference from the noisy highway near Ocean Springs. These campsites sit directly beside the Mississippi Sound. Clusters of pine and oak trees also surrounded the area. This not only gave us shade but also contributed to the serene atmosphere of the place. The icing on the cake? The spot is only 10 minutes by car from Ocean Springs. So we had the best of both worlds – the tranquility of nature and the buzz of the city.
The campground offers spots for both RVs and tents. It’s a great place to stay in your RV or travel trailer. Our site may be small, but it is well maintained. It offered enough space to unwind, with views of the bayou. The park offers 52 spots with electric and water connections. We quickly felt at home and got settled in. Following a long day on the road, I appreciated the calm. The birds were chirping, and the leaves were rustling, making a great background sound while settling in.
A Rainy Escape: Savoring Comfort Food
After a long day of driving in torrential rain, we decided to treat ourselves to a cozy night out at RibCrib Barbecue in Ocean Springs. With the rain pouring down, it was the perfect escape from the camper. The baby back ribs were super tender, and the brisket was packed with flavor. With margarita night going strong, the night couldn’t have been more perfect. It was exactly the kind of casual, comforting meal we needed to recharge for the next leg of our journey. If you find yourself in Ocean Springs, RibCrib is a must-stop for a delicious, laid-back meal!
Exploring Davis Bayou Visitor Center at Gulf Islands National Seashore
Every visit to Gulf Islands National Seashore should begin at the William M. The Colmer Visitor Center. It was the ideal starting point for an exciting trip along the coast. Surrounded by old live oak trees and calm bayou waters, this friendly center offers more than just information. It’s a place that highlights the park’s vibrant bayou ecosystems and interesting local history. Inside, hands-on exhibits display coastal habitats, featuring playful dolphins and impressive ospreys. Educational displays emphasize the importance of protecting this fragile estuary environment. Experienced rangers are available to give you helpful advice, trail maps, and suggestions for things you shouldn’t miss. We even got a personal demonstration of how to load a Civil War rifle. To truly enjoy your Davis Bayou weekend retreat, don’t miss the visitor center.
I found the “Dogs of War” exhibit to be the most fascinating. It highlights the important role these dogs have in the military, especially in dangerous and life-threatening situations. Military working dogs play an essential role on the team by detecting explosives or drugs and tracking suspects. They also offered support to soldiers. The “Dogs of War” exhibit showcases the courage, loyalty, and strong connection between dogs and their handlers. It shares stories of dogs that have served in battles from World War II to present-day missions. This exhibit is also linked to the distinctive history of Cat Island, part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
For kids and adults alike, this visitor center was exceptionally informative and interactive, surpassing many others we’ve visited. Don’t forget to explore the Junior Ranger programs, get your passport stamped, and pick up souvenirs at the park store before heading out!
Explore Scenic Hiking Trails on Your Davis Bayou Weekend Retreat
You won’t fully appreciate a camping trip to Davis Bayou without checking out the hiking trails. The park features three paths that meander through the bayou environment in the Gulf Islands National Seashore. These trails let you enjoy the natural beauty of Mississippi. Each trail features rich wetlands, thick forests, and lovely views of the water. With trails ranging from 0.25 to 2 miles, you can easily fit a hike into your Davis Bayou weekend retreat. Here’s a closer look at the hiking trails we explored:
- Davis Bayou Trail
This 0.5-mile family-friendly loop is ideal for an easy, quick nature walk. We did this on our first day to decompress. This quick trail winds through a maritime forest and along the bayou’s edge. The trail offers excellent wildlife viewing. As avid wildlife watchers, we kept an eye out for herons, alligators, and even dolphins in the nearby waters. Boardwalks and benches make it accessible for all ages. - CCC Overlook Trail
It’s a really brief (0.25-miles) but rewarding hike. This easy trail led us to a picturesque overlook with panoramic views of Davis Bayou. The historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built this path. Interpretive signs share insights into the area’s natural and cultural history. Perfect for sunrise or sunset photography! - Nature’s Way Trail
A slightly longer option at 1-mile, this moderate trail meanders through dense woodlands and open marshlands. We are avid birdwatchers. We loved spotting all the fall migratory bird species. The gator pond observation deck is the best place to see gators, even in the fall. Binoculars are a must for this park in order to get a closer look at the wildlife.
Unforgettable Kayaking Adventures at Davis Bayou
We were looking for a fun way to experience the water, and kayaking at Davis Bayou is an absolute must! The sheltered waters of the bayou are perfect for paddling. You get a completely different perspective of the landscape from the water. We launched our kayaks from the nearby boat ramp. The ramp is open year-round from 6 AM to sunset. The start of a morning paddle always fills me with enthusiasm. Davis Bayou offers scenic paddling routes perfect for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. Gliding through the backwaters of the bayous enabled us to soak in the untouched beauty of Mississippi’s coastal marshes. Here’s our guide to the best kayaking experiences.
Davis Bayou Blueway Paddle Trail
This Davis Bayou Blueway is a 1.5-mile route winding through the heart of the bayou. Davis, Stark, and Halstead Bayous’ tannin-stained waters mirror towering cypress trees hung with Spanish moss. What I like most on this half-day adventure is that paddlers can explore at their own pace. Abundant marine life populates the salt marsh and shallow grassy waterways. During our journey through the tall grasses, we observed turtles, otters, and bald eagles soaring above. We really lucked out and saw dolphins in one of the deeper sections. The gentle current made it easy to paddle, and we took our time exploring the winding waterways.
Adventurous kayakers who want to extend their trip can go to the open bay, making for a full-day trip. This trip gives you an opportunity to see the bayou as it extends into the Gulf Coast, besides the bayou itself. It is ideal for people who are interested in barrier islands and want to go on a real wilderness adventure. Just remember that the exposed areas are susceptible to very strong currents and winds. Check the tides and weather beforehand.
Fishing & Crabbing at Davis Bayou
Along the shoreline, you can find many spots where it’s possible to cast your line, especially near the visitor center. From Davis Bayou to the beaches near Ship Island, there are lots of opportunities to catch different saltwater fish, such as redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. Crab catching is the top activity here.
The fishing pier is an ideal place for anglers, as it provides a safe way to catch fish without getting their feet wet (wheelchair accessible). This pier design welcomes anglers of all skill levels, and it reaches deeper waters, typically home to bigger fish. A Mississippi saltwater fishing license is compulsory to fish in the saltwater parts of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. You can purchase this license online or at local bait shops in Ocean Springs.
Relaxing with a Picnic
The park features five spacious pavilions, ideal for group gatherings and outdoor meals. I could see how these shaded areas are especially useful on sunny days. Pack a picnic with sandwiches, chips, fruit, and drinks. Or go all out with a barbecue or potluck—there perfect for grilling out. Having a picnic in Davis Bayou is a wonderful way to enjoy quality time with loved ones.
Day Trip: Ship Island Excursion Adventure
A day trip to Ship Island is a great way to experience the beauty of the Gulf Coast. It operates from March to October. As we sailed away from Gulfport on the 45-minute ferry tour, we saw a pod of dolphins. We felt excited about the day ahead.
Many people visit this barrier island for its stunning white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Visitors spend their days swimming, snorkeling, or combing the beach for seashells. We want to visit the well-kept Fort Massachusetts from the Civil War. During our ranger-led tour, we discovered how it helped protect the Gulf Coast during the Civil War. We particularly want to see the beautifully restored Fort Massachusetts from the Civil War. During our ranger tour, we discovered how it helped to guard the Gulf Coast during the Civil War. I recommend bringing a picnic lunch to share with you and remember to bring sunscreen and bug spray! You may also buy snacks at the concession stand on the island. As we headed home, I thought about the interesting look we had into history. After spending a day on the island, we finished our evening by watching the beautiful sunset at the fishing pier in Davis Bayou.
PRO Tip: Buy your ferry tickets online ahead of time, especially during the summer. Choose the earliest departure to make the most of your day.
Packing Essentials: For a weekend you’ll want to bring:
- Bug spray: the bayou can have mosquitoes, especially in warmer months.
- Outdoor gear like sturdy shoes for hiking, a kayak or canoe (if you plan to rent one), a hat, and sunscreen.
- Camping supplies if you’re staying at the campground (tent, sleeping bag, stove, etc.).
- Snacks & Water for your outdoor adventures.
- Camera or Binoculars for wildlife viewing and capturing the coastal beauty.
Final Thoughts: Davis Bayou Weekend Retreat in Gulf Islands National Seashore
Our time at Davis Bayou in the Gulf Islands National Seashore was everything we wanted and even better. The combination of outdoor fun,and stunning natural views created the perfect escape. Every moment felt amazing thanks to the early morning kayak in the bayou and the exciting hikes on the nearby nature trails. The campgrounds were in a great location. Davis Bayou offers activities for everyone. We most definitely left with a sense of fulfillment. I am already planning our next trip back to explore even more of this hidden gem. Can’t wait to return to the natural beauty of the bayou. Looking at creating more unforgettable memories!
Have you visited Davis Bayou? We’d love to hear about your experience! Drop a comment and tell us your favorite part of the park.
