The Alluvial Plain encompasses the western edge of the state, and includes a triangular-shaped area in the northwest. Called the Yazoo Basin or the Delta, this area contains rich, black soil suitable for farming. The Mississippi River forms the state's western border, while 71 kilometers of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico forms the state's southern border. Mississippi has several large artificial lakes, such as the Ross Barnett Reservoir near Jackson. Mississippi has bout 2.6 million residents.
Snow is rare in Mississippi, but the state occasionally experiences tornadoes, hurricanes or floods.
Rainfall ranges from an average of 127 cm in the north to 165 cm in the south. The oldest of the state's five symphony orchestras is located in Jackson, which is also home to the Mississippi Opera Association. Many college and university groups throughout the state also offer classical performances. There are twenty-six state parks in Mississippi, all of which offer a variety of outdoor activities. Camping and hiking facilities are available at De Soto, Bienville, Delta, Holly Springs, and Homochitto national forests.