Okatoma.org recomends the Okatoma Outdoor Post (also known as Okatoma Canoe Rentals) for our Okatoma excursion.  

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An Excerpt from the Mississippi Business Journal (July 13, 1988)

Located an hour south of Jackson and a half hour north of Hattiesburg via U.S. 49, the canoeing part of the Okatoma River flows freely through forests and farmland, with maple, birch and magnolia trees forming a canopy. Classified as a beginner white water stream, there is a series of small waterfalls and rapids that spill over shelves of sandstone and clay. Once a little known secret, floating the river has become big business, enticing adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Ronnie and Lisa Robinson, owners of the Okatoma Outdoor Post in Sanford, aren't planning to expand, unless they add to their on-site campgrounds. Located on 360 acres, the facilities are developed only on 13 acres.

Bright yellow and red colors are attention-grabbers at the Okatoma Outdoor Post. They identify everything, from the half-canoe vertically displayed at the entrance (worth a double take) to the water coolers and T-shirts inside the expansive cabin-type store. Carved wood is displayed throughout the store where you can also see just about every example of native wildlife -- stuffed, that is.

"In the winter, kindergarten and first grade groups come to picnic here," Lisa Robinson said. "They'll look at everything in the store and learn at the same time. We'll tell them about the Indians that were around here. It's quite an adventure for them."

Ronnie and Lisa Robinson bought Okatoma Outdoor Post in 1982. The store, a small house, a bus and a few canoes were all that came with the deal. Now, they have 300 canoes in stock, and separate buildings that house restrooms and shower facilities. An area is designated for tent camping, with picnic tables and barbecue grills nearby. In-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews pitch in during the summer and give this recreational facility a warm family atmosphere.

For $22, canoe rental at both facilities includes a 17-foot aluminum canoe, two paddles, life vests, and room for gear. Two adults -- plus a couple of small children -- can comfortably fit in a canoe. Kayaks, when available, are also rented for the same rate. Shuttle service is provided.

The upper run of the Okatoma, which covers about 13 creek miles with three waterfalls, begins at Seminary and ends at Sanford. It is the most popular trip and usually takes four to six hours. The lower run, which is about six creek miles with two waterfalls, begins in Sanford and ends in Lux. Overnight campers usually combine both runs, pitching a tent along the river.

Pollution along the river has concerned some environmentalists. Even though both businesses ask canoers not to litter, and the sheriff's department has a sign posted at the drop-off point with a reminder that Covington County is "dry," the banks of the river are dotted with debris after busy weekends. Crews from both facilities travel downstream once a week to remove it.

The Okatoma Outdoor Post employs 17' Grumman Aluminum Canoes and Typhoon Kayaks of 9' single and 17' double lengths.

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