Clark Creek Natural Area is in an extremely remote location, and medical and other asistance can be a long way off (my cell phone didn't work in the area). Be careful, watch your footing on the steep trails and around the waterfalls. Remember that poisonous snakes and the occasional black bear can be found here. There is no potable water or toilet facilities. You'll need to carry water with you, especially during the hotter times of the year. Plan your trip carefully, and take a map and compass if you intend to try the Primitive Trail. Don't overextend yourself and you should have a very enjoyable trek. And as the sign says, "Hike at your own risk."

DIRECTIONS:
Clark Creek Natural Area can be found in the southwest corner of Wilkinson County in southwest Mississippi, thirteen miles west-southwest of historic Woodville, in the community of Pond. Jackson is about 140 miles (by road) to the northeast, Baton Rouge is roughly 55 miles to the south, and Natchez about 48 miles to the north by U.S. 61

From Jackson, visitors can take Interstate 55 south to McComb. Proceed west on Highway 24/48 to Woodville (take care to watch for the turn for Highway 48 in Liberty—I was rubber-necking and followed Highway 24 nine miles out of my way through Gloster). Continue through Woodville on Highway 24, and at the Clark Creek sign (about one mile after crossing the famous Highway 61), turn left onto the Woodville-Pond Road.

From Natchez, follow Highway 61 south to Woodville, turn right onto Highway 24 and, again, at the Clark Creek highway sign, turn left onto the Woodville-Pond Road.

From both Jackson and Natchez, drive about fourteen miles to the community of Pond, watch for the Clark Creek sign and turn right. Proceed across the cattle gap up toward the large, white building that serves as the Pond Store. Directions are available at the store or continue past the store to the parking area just up the road on the left.

From Baton Rouge, take Highway 61 north, past St. Francisville, Louisiana. Turn left on Angola Prison road, otherwise known as Highway 66. Eventually, Highway 969 will fork off to the right, Turn right there, otherwise you'll end up at the prison! Pond, Mississippi is at the junction of Highways 969 and 24, about twenty-five minutes from St. Francisville (the Pond General Store will be off to your left, next to the duck pond).

IMPORTANT NOTE:
There is a Day Use Permit fee for Clark Creek Natural Area that is paid using the honor system. Look for the envelopes in the small shed to the left of the trailhead. Follow the directions, pay the fee, and you avoid the risk of a fine.