Major Bodies of Water in Mississippi

Gulf of Mexico

Forms the southern border; rich marine life, tourism, white-sand beaches.

Mississippi River

Largest U.S. river; western boundary; vital for transport, irrigation, and wildlife (catfish, alligators).

Yazoo River

Tributary through central Mississippi; supports agriculture, fishing, boating.

Pearl River

Flows through eastern Mississippi; water source for drinking, industry, recreation.

Lake Pontchartrain

Large saltwater lake in southeastern Louisiana (connected to Mississippi via Rigolets Pass); major transport route and tourist destination.