Marathon Lake

Marathon Lake Recreation Area offers a well-developed boat ramp access point to this 50-acre lake located in Smith County, Mississippi, approximately 15 miles southeast of Forest and 25 miles northeast of Raleigh. The facility features a dedicated boat ramp, making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and motorized boats. Additional amenities include 34 campsites with water and electric hookups, a swimming area, two bathhouses with warm showers, picnic shelters, and a hiking trail for those planning a multi-day trip.

**Access & Directions:** From Forest, head south on Highway 35 for 8.5 miles to Homewood, then turn east on Morton-Marathon Road for 9 miles. Turn south on Forest Service Road 520 and continue ½ mile to the entrance. This is a first-come, first-served facility—arrive in person to claim a campsite and pay fees. Payment can be made via the Recreation.gov mobile app's Scan and Pay feature if available.

**Fishing & Recreation:** Marathon Lake has been stocked with catfish, bass, and crappie, with bream fishing also available. The quiet, secluded setting makes it an excellent destination for paddlers seeking a peaceful day trip or overnight camping adventure with boat access.

Overview
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.
If this option is available, you will need to first download the free...

Overview
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature.
If this option is available, you will need to first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
Recreation
Marathon Lake provides various recreational oppurtunties. This includes activities such as biking, hiking, boating, picnicking, fishing, camping, swimming, wildlife viewing, and volleyball.
Facilities

34 campsites with water and electricity
14 picnick tables
Sand volleyball court (no ball provided)
BBQ grills
2 Pavilions (can be reserved for groups, please call local Forest Service Office at 601-469-3811)
Boat Launch
Swimming area with sandy beach
Hiking Trail (1.7 miles in length)
Water fountains
Sanitation facilities with showers and flush toilets
Dump station for trash

Natural Features
Marathon Lake is a 50-acre lake located in Smith County. It got its' name from Marathon Lumber Company which closed in 1929. You will enjoy the beauty and seclusion of this quiet campground located approximately 15 miles southeast of Forest, MS and 25 miles northeast of Raleigh, MS. Marathon Recreation area is equipped with 34 camping sites (with water and electric hook-ups), boat ramp, swimming area, 2 bath houses (warm showers), picnic shelters, picnic tables and a hiking trail. The lake has been stocked with catfish, bass and crappie and is open to bream fishing. A dump station is available. The area has a volunteer Campground Host on site most of the time.

Contact Info
This location is staffed. Please call (601) 469-3811 to speak with local staff.

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