Ecotourism in southern United States

An increasing number of tourists prefer to travel responsibly and experience a region’s natural heritage, and each year, new destinations are emerging to meet that demand.

An American national park, the Gulf Islands National Seashore, located between Pensacola, Florida, and Pascagoula, Mississippi, offers recreation opportunities while preserving the natural and historic resources along the Gulf of Mexico barrier islands.

The Mississippi District of the seashore features natural beaches, historic sites, wildlife sanctuaries, islands accessible only by boat, bayous, nature trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

The Davis Bayou Area is the only portion of the National Seashore in Mississippi that is accessible by automobile. Petit Bois, Horn, East Ship, West Ship, and Cat Islands are accessible only by boat. The 4,080 acres (16.5 km2) Gulf Islands Wilderness provides special protection, within the seashore, to parts of Petit Bois Island and Horn Island, Mississippi.

Four visitor centers welcome tourists and there are plenty of activities, including hiking, cycling, swimming and snorkeling, fishing, bird-watching, and boating. Focusing on regional ecological aspects, locals are mapping the area to create a network of trails to attract eco tourists.