Looking for a hike with an end point that’s as impressive as the scenery along the way? Then you’ve got to check out Richardson Creek Trail. At 10 miles, it’s on the longer side; however, the trek is well worth it since the trail leads straight to a spring-fed lake that’s perfect for swimming. And if you don’t want to tackle the lengthy trail, that’s okay because you can actually drive straight to the lake. Take a look:

Located in the Homochitto National Forest near Roxie, MS, Richardson Creek Trail winds through Clear Springs Recreation Area.

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The 10-mile loop trail leads through varying terrain, making it perfect for hikers and bikers.

Veaceslav Jolobenco/AllTrails

Rated as moderate, the trail does require a bit of effort, but there’s plenty of beautiful scenery to keep you occupied along the way.

Suman Bhasker/AllTrails

Lush greenery and colorful wildflowers line the trail, making for some great photo-ops.

Rebecca Torres/AllTrails

The end of the trail is probably the best part, though. And that’s because it comes to an end at Clear Springs Lake.

Glenda Cavalier/AllTrails

A true hidden gem, the 12-acre lake is nearly camouflaged by the pine trees.

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Perfect for cooling off, the lake is spring-fed, so it stays nice and cold throughout the year.

Mindy Smith/AllTrails

Luckily, Clear Springs Recreation Area is accessible by car, so you can still enjoy the lake even if you’re not a hiker.

nalahaye/Google Directions: Clear Springs is 4 miles south of US Hwy 84. It is 35 miles west of Brookhaven and 32 miles east of Natchez. It is 5 miles west of Meadville on Hwy. 84; turn south on Clear Springs Road (County Road 104), go 4 miles to the recreation area entrance.

For more information on this trail, visit the USDA website.

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Veaceslav Jolobenco/AllTrails

Suman Bhasker/AllTrails

Rebecca Torres/AllTrails

Glenda Cavalier/AllTrails

nalahaye/Google

Mindy Smith/AllTrails

Directions: Clear Springs is 4 miles south of US Hwy 84. It is 35 miles west of Brookhaven and 32 miles east of Natchez. It is 5 miles west of Meadville on Hwy. 84; turn south on Clear Springs Road (County Road 104), go 4 miles to the recreation area entrance.

This isn’t the only must-visit swimming spot in the state. Read about another here.

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