Its origin is in Webster County near the town of Eupora in the north central part of the state.

The rivers carry large amounts of suspended sediment, resulting mostly from agricultural runoff.

[5] The size of the Big Black River Basin drainage area is 3,400 square miles (8,800 km2).

[4] During the American Civil War, a pivotal battle between the Union and Confederate forces occurred along the Big Black River, culminating in the Siege of Vicksburg in 1863.

Pemberton left 5,000 troops to make a stand on both sides of the Big Black River after his Champion Hill defeat, while he withdrew with his main command to nearby Vicksburg.