Carson is on the Longleaf Trace, a 44-mile linear park that runs from Hattiesburg through Carson to Prentiss. When planning, it’s worth distinguishing between the route of the Trace and the separate equestrian trail: both are part of the Longleaf Trace, but each has its own length and rules for use.

Route and access in Carson

The Longleaf Trace is open to runners, cyclists, hikers, and horseback riders; it is also accessible to wheelchair users. One access point is at 742 Old Hwy. 42 in Carson. This address provides a specific starting point in town for the longer route. Hattiesburg and Prentiss mark the endpoints, with Carson along the connection between them. If you’re planning activities, the Trace is the shared route for running, cycling, and hiking; it is also accessible to wheelchair users. Horseback riding is also possible, but follows its own route and rules.

Railroad line and present-day route

The Longleaf Trace follows part of the abandoned Mississippi Central Railroad line. This historical connection therefore applies to a section, not the entire 44-mile park. The former railroad line and today’s recreational use come together along part of the route. If you’re interested in railroad and transportation history, you can pair this connection with one of the activities on the Trace.

Equestrian trail: separate length and clear rules

The Longleaf Trace equestrian trail is 24 miles long, has a natural-surface trail, and runs parallel to the Trace. Horseback riding is permitted only on this equestrian trail. Riders may cross the paved path only at designated locations. For planning rides, the distinction is useful: the 24 miles refer to the equestrian trail, while the linear park as a whole is 44 miles long. Anyone traveling with a horse must therefore follow the permitted route and use the designated crossing points. This makes it possible to choose a route in accordance with the riding rules, rather than interpreting the 24 miles as the total length of the park.

Facilities near Carson Station

Near Carson Station, there is a group primitive-camping area, a staging area for riders and horses, a group pavilion, and picnic tables. Carson also has a gravel parking lot that is especially suitable for horse trailers. The Carson area of the Longleaf Trace has horse stalls for overnight guests and their horses. If you’re making firm plans to camp or use a particular facility, check availability in advance.

Distinguish between route and type of trip

For a trip to Carson, this makes it easy to choose what to focus on. Those traveling on foot or by bike will find a route with several possible uses on the Longleaf Trace; those on horseback should plan to use the separate natural-surface trail and follow the crossing rule. For groups, the camping area at Carson Station is a separate point of reference, while the horse stalls are specifically for overnight guests and their horses. This distinction helps keep route selection and overnight planning separate.

Discover more destinations: Prentiss.

For the broader travel overview: Jefferson Davis.