The Little Sunflower River flows through the heart of the Mississippi Delta, carving a meandering path through Sharkey and Issaquena Counties in western Mississippi. This tributary of the Big Sunflower River originates in the fertile agricultural lands north of Rolling Fork and winds southward through bottomland hardwood forests before joining its larger counterpart within the boundaries of Delta National Forest—the only national forest in the United States dedicated to preserving bottomland hardwood ecosystems.

Paddlers will find the Little Sunflower River offers a distinctly intimate experience compared to larger Delta waterways. The river maintains a narrow, winding channel that passes through some of the most ecologically significant forest remaining in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. The primary paddling route begins at the boat ramp off Highway 433 (Spanish Fort Road) deep within Delta National Forest in Sharkey County, providing access to approximately 15 miles of navigable waterway. This section features minimal current and flat water conditions, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers. The river is typically paddleable year-round, though water levels fluctuate seasonally, with optimal conditions generally occurring from late fall through early spring when the forest is less prone to flooding and mosquito populations diminish.

The surrounding bottomland hardwood forest supports towering bald cypress, overcup oak, sweetgum, and water tupelo trees, some reaching impressive dimensions. Wildlife encounters are frequent, with white-tailed deer, river otters, beavers, and American alligators inhabiting the waterway. Birdwatchers may spot barred owls, wood ducks, great blue herons, and various songbirds, particularly during spring and fall migrations. The forest floor and riverbanks reveal one of the world's densest freshwater mussel populations, though these creatures remain largely hidden beneath the muddy substrate.

The Little Sunflower River holds historical significance as part of the landscape where President Theodore Roosevelt's famous 1902 bear hunt occurred, the event that inspired the creation of the "Teddy Bear." Legendary hunting guide Holt Collier, a former slave and Confederate soldier, led Roosevelt through these forests and along this river system.

Access is primarily limited to the Delta National Forest boat ramp, with Rolling Fork serving as the nearest town for supplies and services. Paddlers should prepare for muddy banks, limited facilities, and the possibility of encountering submerged logs or shallow sections during low water. The forest is actively managed for hunting, so checking seasonal closures before visiting is essential. Multi-day camping is possible at designated primitive sites within the national forest with proper permits, allowing extended exploration of this remarkably preserved Delta ecosystem.