This 50 square mile reservoir is formed by an earth filled dam. It is administered by the Pearl River Valley Water Supply District, an agency of the State of Mississippi. Information concerning recreational facilities may be obtained at the marinas. Access from the Parkway is by way of state and county roads.
Ross Barnett Reservoir (Pearl River) parallels the Parkway for eight miles.
Natchez Trace Multi-Use Trail
Bicyclists, walkers and joggers can access the Natchez Trace Multi-Use Trail from Reservoir Overlook's parking area. This is the northern terminus of the trail. Further south the trail joins the Ridgeland Multi-Use Path. From here, you can walk or bike south for several miles paralleling the parkway all the way to the Choctaw Agency at milepost 100.7. This alternate route will help bicyclists avoid heavy car traffic through the Jackson/Ridgeland/Madison area.