Its southern boundary begins only 5 miles north of the Gulfport-Biloxi area. Hattiesburg is located between the two units, and Laurel is just 10 miles north of the northern boundary. The winding streams, unique to the Forest, form bottomlands that grow hardwood timber. Abundant rainfall and a long warm growing season combine to make the pine forest of the DeSoto especially productive. The Forest also produces game in abundance, including deer, turkey, and quail.
Streams are often tea-colored from tannic acid leaching from tree leaves and bark in wooded swamps.
Many recreation activities can be found on the three ranger districts. One of the most popular activities is floating the winding streams in canoe, raft, or jon-boat. Numerous hiking trails provide the nature lover, history buff and hiker with the chance to view nature at its best. Picnicking, fishing, and camping are also available. The Southern Region's only tree nursery is located on the De Soto National Forest.