Seminary Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
80 ft
About Seminary Falls
Seminary Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located near the town of Seminary in Mississippi. It is part of the Okatoma Creek, a popular destination for kayaking and canoeing. The waterfall is known for its serene surroundings and is a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Seminary Falls sits at 236 feet along the Okatoma Creek, in the coastal lowlands of Mississippi.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 80 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is no formal hiking trail to Seminary Falls. Access is primarily via Okatoma Creek, which requires kayaking or canoeing. The creek features gentle currents and scenic views, making it a popular route for paddlers.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic experience along Okatoma Creek, with Seminary Falls providing a small but charming cascade. The area is surrounded by lush greenery and is ideal for photography or a relaxing break during a paddling trip.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Seminary Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Seminary Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as water levels are typically higher, enhancing the flow of the falls. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Visitors should wear life jackets while on the creek and be aware of water levels and currents. Check weather conditions before your trip, and avoid the creek during heavy rains or flooding.
Current Water Conditions
79 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 31 years of record
7.31 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge OKATOMA CREEK AT SANFORD, MS (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
79 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
79 cfs
5/10Thu
Low
91 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
95 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
99 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
98 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
93 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late January to late March, peaking in February.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Seminary hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar measures about 18 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of Seminary Falls. The brink sits at about 236 feet above sea level.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 236 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 18 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Seminary Falls is accessible via Okatoma Creek, which is commonly reached by kayak or canoe. The nearest town is Seminary, Mississippi, and visitors typically launch from local outfitters or designated access points along the creek.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at local outfitter locations or designated creek access points. Visitors should confirm parking availability with the outfitter they use.
Elevation
236 feet above sea level
Coordinates
31.553223° N, -89.499511° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring appropriate gear for kayaking or canoeing, as this is the primary way to access the falls. Check water levels and weather conditions before your trip. Local outfitters can provide equipment rentals and guidance.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
For this easy 0.6 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
La Quinta by Wyndham Hattiesburg - I-59
Candlewood Suites Hattiesburg by IHG
avid hotel Hattiesburg West by IHG
Holiday Inn Hattiesburg - North by IHG
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Seminary, local parks, and other sections of Okatoma Creek.
Wildlife
The area around Okatoma Creek is home to various bird species, fish, and other wildlife. Visitors may spot turtles, herons, and other creek-dwelling animals.
Writing about Seminary Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.