Outdoor Recreation, Education, and Event Space on the Mississippi Gulf Coast
The Estuarine Education Center (EEC) is a 40-acre facility located on the Jackson County Campus of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Gautier, MS.
The facility is used for educational emphasis in Outdoor Recreational Leadership and Environmental Studies for MGCCC’s college students, but the EEC is open to the public and is also available for public facility rental. Anyone and everyone can come visit the EEC to experience our fantastic indoor and outdoor activities. We provide the necessary gear and equipment.
Activities
We have trained instructors, tour guides, and certified facilitators to help you enjoy many indoor and outdoor activities.
Max Group Size: 25
Our 30-foot indoor rock climbing wall features three sections that vary in difficulty, allowing climbers to progress at their own pace. Designed to be both challenging and accessible, the wall encourages confidence, problem-solving, and personal accomplishment for a wide range of abilities.
Kayaking, Canoeing, Paddle Boarding
Our guided paddling experiences offer a calm and scenic journey through Mary Walker Bayou, led by trained staff who focus on coastal ecology and paddling fundamentals for beginners. Opportunities are also able for experienced paddlers seeking a more independent or skill-focused experience. Advance scheduling is required for all paddling activities.
Group Size: 10-25
Our low ropes course emphasizes teamwork, communication, and problem-solving through facilitated, ground-based challenges designed for students, corporate teams, and community organizations. Activities encourage reflection on leadership, decision-making, and overall group effectiveness.
Currently Unavailable.
Ziplining, King Swing, 50ft Rock Wall
Enjoy an easy, approximately 2-mile walk through wooded habitats along Mary Walker Bayou that supports both recreation and environmental education. The trails provide opportunities to observe local ecosystems, wildlife, and coastal plant communities and are open on weekends with access from either side of the gates.
Facility Rentals
The Estuarine Education Center offers a versatile venue for corporate retreats, community meetings, school field trips, workshops, and special events. Our facility includes indoor gathering spaces, outdoor areas, and access to natural surroundings that support both structured programming and informal use.
All visits and rentals must be scheduled in advance. Please call to confirm availability and discuss your event needs.
| Day | Time |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Tuesday – Friday | 8 AM – 5 PM |
| Saturday & Sunday | Closed |
Closed all major holidays.
See Academic Calendar for closure dates.
Contact
Contact us for more information.
Katie Walsh Fetzer
EEC Coordinator
Front Desk: (228) 497-7673
Office: (228) 497-7738
katie.fetzer@mgccc.edu
We are a facility with staff certified and trained by the American Canoe Association (ACA) and the Association of Challenge Course Technology (ACCT), with current First Aid, CPR, and AED certifications.