Located only seven miles northwest of Meridian, Mississippi on Okatibbee Creek, Okatibbee Lake is an 11,000-acre multi-purpose project. With more than 4,000 acres of water surface available, there is plenty of room for boating and water sports at Okatibbee Lake.
While visiting the lake make sure you abide by all federal, state and local boating laws. In addition to following boating regulations, always follow the navigation markers located around the lake and exercise good sense on the water.
To ensure everyone enjoys their time on the water and prevent accidents, review the following list of safety precautions before visiting the lake. By taking a few minutes to educate yourself on our boating tips you'll have a safer and more enjoyable visit to Okatibbee Lake.
Boating Safety Tips
- Be alert to underwater hazards such as submerged stumps, logs and rocks that are present in the lake.
- Be especially careful when approaching the shoreline because depth of water will vary from time to time and place to place. Never dive into water of unknown depth.
- Be alert to hazards such as poisonous plants, insects and snakes that exist in the woodlands.
- Keep children under close supervision at all times.
- Wear life vests at all times.
- Do not use alcohol while in, on or around the water.
- File a trip plan with someone to let him or her know where you will be and when you plan to return.
- Swim in designated swimming areas. (In all other areas except those designated "no swimming," individuals may swim at their own risk.)
- When recreating downstream of the dam, be prepared to leave the area immediately when the warning horn sounds and water is released.