Jamie Whitten Lock and Dam

The Jamie Whitten Lock and Dam is a major water control structure on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway that helps vessels navigate significant elevation changes. The lock chamber itself is enormous, allowing large cargo ships to move through these navigation routes.

The structure was completed in 1983 as part of a major project to improve shipping in the Southeast. It was named after Congressman Jamie Whitten, who had represented Mississippi for many years.

The dam created Bay Springs Lake, a reservoir that draws locals and visitors who come to fish, boat, or spend time along the water. The lake has become central to how people in the region enjoy their free time.

The site is best explored from public viewpoints around the structure, which offer free access to observe operations. Weekday visits tend to be calmer, giving you a better chance to watch the lock work without heavy traffic activity.

The lock uses a single lift system that ranks among the highest in the country, raising and lowering vessels in one motion over tremendous elevation differences. This engineering feat remains little known despite being a remarkable technical accomplishment.