Red Creek is a coastal blackwater stream that gets its name from the naturally-occuring tannins in the water that produce a reddish stain. The region along the creek is densely forested, making it a beautiful view for floating downstream in warm summer months. There are at least 60 species of freshwater and diadromous fish, 5 of which may be recreationally fished.

The Red Creek Blueway is comprised of four segments. From the Clay Shelves segment, float trips in canoes and kayaks take about 7.5 hours from beginning to end, a full journey of 9.7miles. Red clay shelves line the creek, making it clear to see how the waterway got its name. You will even see several small rapids along the trip.

From the Railroad Trestle segment of the creek, you can expect to float for 6.2 miles. You can also float a flat bottom boat and anchor at beautiful white sandbars to stop and swim for a while or enjoy a waterfront picnic.

The Red Bluff segment is the second longest float trip along Red Creek; it is 9.6 miles. Flat bottom boats take about 8.5 hours to make the trip, and canoes and kayaks are a bit quicker at about 6.5 hours. Along this trip you will observe and navigate through the remains of old rail lines, indicative of the early 1900’s timber harvest. Look closely..you just might see the famous “Red Bluff” peeking through the trees.

If you’d like to opt for a partial day trip, Natural Springs segment is just right for you. 4.4 miles from Cable Bridge to Hwy, 15, this trip will take about 4 hours in a boat, and 3 hours for canoers and kayakers. The float may be brief relative to the other segments of Red Creek, but the scenery will have you wanting to slow down and soak it all in. There are natural springs that feed the creek close to the site of historic Ramsey Springs Hotel.

Photos courtesy or Land Trust of the Mississippi Coastal Plainter.