US49 Bridge

The US49 Bridge access point on the Bouie River near Hattiesburg provides entry to a substantial river system in southeastern Mississippi. The Bouie River is a large stream (Stream Order 6) with significant flow averaging over 1,100 cubic feet per second, making it suitable for various boating activities. The river in this area features an average gradient of 5.1 feet per mile, which creates moderate current conditions typical of a working river rather than a placid paddling stream.

Paddlers should be aware that the Bouie River maintains an average velocity of 2.05 feet per second, indicating consistent downstream movement that will assist paddlers heading downriver but require effort for upstream travel. The river's substantial drainage area of 669 square miles and total elevation drop of 405 feet across its 79-mile length demonstrate this is an actively flowing system. With the US49 Bridge providing road access in Hattiesburg, this location offers reasonable vehicle access compared to more remote river sections.

This access point is positioned relatively far from the Bouie River's mouth, approximately 231 miles upstream from where it joins larger waterways. Boaters should anticipate typical river conditions including variable water levels based on rainfall and seasonal changes. The moderate to fast current and active flow characteristics suggest this stretch is better suited for paddlers with some river experience who are comfortable navigating moving water.