Shepard State Park has 395 acres abounding with trees and wild flowers, bike and nature trails, 28 developed campsites, 1 bathhouse, tent camping and picnicking and 18-hole disc golf course.
The park is nestled in the heart of Singing River (Pascagoula River) country, where legend has it that members of the Pascagoula Indian nation linked hands and walked into the Pascagoula River rather than be taken captive by hostile Indian tribes. The mournful death chant they sang as they walked earned the Pascagoula River the nickname “Singing River”. Tales of the heroic exploits of French and Spanish settlers and romantic legends of the Pascagoula and Biloxi Indians are standard fare in the scenic coastal area surrounding Shepard State Park.
AMENITIES
Nature Trail
Approximately 8 miles of trails on the grounds of the park offer many areas for exploring. On these trails you will come into contact with the true beauty of this park. From the majestic oaks to the unique wetlands, where you will encounter a variety of coastal plants and wildlife. These trails expand over five different locations.
Picnic Area/Shelter
A spacious area shaded by majestic oaks and towering long leaf pines provides a haven for picnickers. The park’s picnic sites feature tables and grills with occupancy ranging to 40 or 50 persons. The large picnic pavilion is available to groups by reservation. A playground, stage, playing fields and restrooms are available in this area.
Playground
Playground equipment is available at the Park.
Playing Fields
Two recreational fields are open to the public.
Disc Golf
Alligator Alley is an 18-hole disc golf course. It is a well maintained, wooded course along the LaMotte Bayou. The course is designed for accuracy rather than for power on the front nine, with a mixture of power and accuracy on the back nine. Hand-painted direction and tee signs make this course easy to follow and enjoyable to play.
Boat Ramp
A boat ramp for small watercraft is located inside the park and is available for public use. It provides access to the mouth of the Singing River by way of St. Pierre Bayou. A boat launch fee is charged.
Bark Park
The dog park at Shepard State Park has a covered picnic table, providing shade for our guests plus wooden run ramps for the dogs. The fenced in area is best for small & medium sized dogs. There is no intermediate area for gaining access to the park so be mindful of other dogs. There are helpful tools and waste bins for picking up after dogs. Guests can purchase an annual pass for $42.00 and visit the park as often as they like.
Day Use
A day-use entry fee is charged on a per vehicle basis.
