McCrea Dead River is a former river channel (oxbow) of the Pascagoula River in Mississippi. This waterbody offers paddlers a unique glimpse into how rivers change course over time. Access is available via Mixon Lake Road off Highway 57. During high water events, the oxbow may reconnect with the main river channel, providing additional paddling opportunities.

The area is part of the Pascagoula River Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which requires visitors to purchase and carry a WMA User Permit and complete a daily use permit card before entering. These permit cards are available at permit stations located at major WMA entrances.

The surrounding habitat supports diverse wildlife including wading birds, alligators, and various waterfowl. The waterway is flanked by bottomland hardwoods and cypress-tupelo swamps, creating an environment rich in wildlife viewing opportunities. The broader WMA encompasses 37,000 acres where paddlers might encounter river otters, beaver, deer, and even black bear.

The Dead River system is best suited for experienced and intermediate paddlers due to the region's strong currents and the distance between access points. The main Pascagoula River Blueway in this area spans approximately 22 miles and typically takes about 8 hours to paddle, though specific times for the Dead River section are not provided.

For paddlers interested in photography, the oxbow lake environment offers excellent opportunities to capture images of wildlife and natural scenery. The area is particularly notable in spring and fall when migratory birds pass through, and during winter and early spring when waterfowl populations peak.