Few places capture the imagination like the mighty Mississippi River. From Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn to Johnny Cash’s ‘Big River’, the Mississippi has entrenched itself at the heart of the best of American myth and folklore. Today, you can experience the magic of the Mississippi in a variety of ways, whether it’s actively using the river for an activity, staying in a townhouse overlooking it, or feeling a part of the nature by pitching your camp next to it. Whatever it is, getting out in to Great Outdoors and enjoying a river that stretches from Minnesota in the north all the way down the Gulf of Mexico is an excursion that everybody with an interest in history and natural beauty should experience.
Better yet, the cost of experiencing the Mississippi is less expensive than you might expect, especially when compared to more traditional vacations, as many of the activities take place on the water and the hotels are generally based in inexpensive towns along the river.
Accommodation
Finding a place to stay that overlooks the Mississippi River should be no problem; the difficulty is finding which one you want to stay in! Take your pick from Victorian townhouses, B&Bs, cabins, and lodges. It is an incomparable feeling, waking up to the beauty of the Mississippi River and knowing that you get to spend the day exploring the trails and activities of the local towns before watching the sun set over the river. The warm hospitality and quaint nature of the towns that dot along the Mississippi are particularly good for adding to the magic of your trip, so have a look at what’s available. If you are going down south, be sure to check out the Delta Bohemian guest house in Clarksdale, MS, run by River Citizens!
Camping
While riverside accommodation is great, the most authentic and cost-effective way to experience the Mississippi is by camping next to it; after all, this is how one of the river’s most favorite sons, Huckleberry Finn, experienced the river in the book that graces his name. Aside from reconnecting us to a time before cars and modernity took over, camping helps to keep the travel expenses down and also helps to preserve the beauty of the Mississippi for future generations to enjoy. You should have no difficulty finding a campground, and once you’ve set up camp you can start enjoying the magnificent views, small nearby towns, and great activities of the river, which brings us to our next topic…
Activities
On a river the size of the Mississippi, you better believe there is some fun to be had! Naturally, since the river passes through the ten states, activities vary depending on what section of the river you’re on. The Great River Road is a great place to start looking for some fun things to do on the River! Some activities include:
Mississippi River Tour by Boat
Many people think that “environmentally friendly” means more expensive, but that’s not true, at least when it comes to vacations; traveling on a paddlewheel boat or taking an eco-tour on the Mississippi are both affordable and do their bit to protect the environment of the River and its inhabitants. A paddlewheel boat tour in New Orleans in particular is a must-do – the lights of the city and historic way of traveling can make even the most cynical of hearts fall in love again.
Photo credit: John Ruskey
Canoe/Kayak
Few things can match the feeling of being on a calm Mississippi River in a canoe or kayak, spending the day idly making your way down the river. Before you set off, bear in mind that the Mississippi’s current can be stronger than it looks; always wear a lifejacket and try to avoid going for long distances without a break.
Fishing
The Mississippi is noted for its abundance of fish – over 260 species! Have some patience and a little bit of luck and you might land yourself a walleye, catfish, or bass. The same rules as canoe/kayaks apply – play it safe, understand the current might be stronger than it looks and wear a life jacket. Otherwise, have fun and remember, it’s not all about the actual catching of the fish – it’s about being out on the famous river with your friends. But if you’re really competitive with said friends and want to make sure you catch as many fish as possible, consider using sonar fish finders which you can learn more about at Outdoor Empire.
While the advice listed here is a good starting point for your visit to the Mississippi, the true magic of the river can’t be written – it must be felt. The best way to truly feel the history and folklore of the Mississippi is by visiting it and having a memorable time with your friends and family. Somehow, the wonder of the River has transcended time; now is the time to take a step back and see just how special this part of the world is.
Contributed by River Citizen Emma Golden