The Magnolia State marks the edge of the eastern U.S. while also being quintessentially Southern. The powerful Mississippi River, the largest in the U.S., forms almost all of the state's western border. Alabama represents the state's eastern border. There's also access to the Gulf of Mexico on the state's southeastern border. Hit up Buccaneer State Park on the Gulf coast for fishing and sailboarding. Buccaneer was rebuilt after a severe hit from Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Many of its amenities are relatively new. Coming by car? Drive in on the Natchez Trace Parkway. This historic highway traces an old trading route of American Indians and settlers. About 60 total miles of the old foot trails are still available for hiking. There's easy access to campgrounds through Mississippi's portion of the Trace. If you're into mountain climbing, you're not in luck here. There's not much in the way of elevated hiking challenges. Woodall Mountain is the highest natural point in the state but comes in at an anemic 807 feet. Prepare for severe heat when spending summer months in this region of the country. Also, don't forget about hurricane season! Southern Mississippi's proximity to the Gulf can make the late summer a little hairy at times.