The creek derives its name from naturally occurring tannins that give the water a reddish appearance as it flows over the white sand bottom.

[2] A portion of Red Creek has been designated a State Scenic Stream by the Mississippi Legislature.

Red Creek is a developed blueway with four distinct segments for float trips in Stone County:[2] Numerous white sandbars are suitable as rest stops, picnic areas, or overnight camp areas.

[5] Within the watershed, licensed hunting is allowed on De Soto National Forest and Red Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Game species such as whitetail deer, squirrel, raccoon, wild turkey, rabbit, and bobwhite quail are found within the watershed.