Do you believe in magic? If you don’t, the Mississippi Petrified Forest might change your mind, as it features one of the best hikes to put on your bucket list. In 1965, it was designated as a National Natural Landmark, and it continues to retain its charm. It has fossilized tree specimens that date back millions of years. Ancient maple and fir trunks washed down an old river channel, later becoming petrified at the current location of the forest. In addition to the trees themselves, there is now a museum at the site that showcases various mineralized plant specimens, such as bark, leaves, and fruits. When it comes to animals, you will find fossils of turtle shells, whale bones, and dinosaur footprints.
The entrance to the Mississippi Petrified Forest is located on Forest Park Road in Flora, Mississippi, approximately 20 miles from Jackson. Entering the park costs $7, or $6 for seniors and students, and it is open year-round. There are numbered markers all through the forest, and you can get a trail guide to keep you informed throughout your walk. There are lots of places to sit, relax, and touch the unique wood of the petrified trees.
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Exploring the Mississippi Petrified Forest
Logs on the ground in the Mississippi petrified forest – Jeffrey M. Frank/Shutterstock
The Mississippi Petrified Forest is a one-of-a-kind destination in the state. It contains a serene, easy, less than 1-mile loop trail, ideal for hikers of various levels. Along this self-guided trail, you can see petrified wood exactly where nature left it eons ago. The signage along the trail will help you understand how these trees were petrified and what makes them unique, but the short answer is that petrification happens when organic matter is slowly replaced with minerals deep underground. Both the trees and the red sand walls in the park were formed in the Oligocene epoch, more than 30 million years ago.
If you would like to get a hands-on feel of the unique wood, you can stop by the Caveman’s Bench. Designed like a real bench, the wooden structure allows visitors to actually sit on it, making it ideal for capturing Instagram-worthy moments. While you can visit the forest at any time, the best time to visit is in spring. This is when the weather is most ideal for outdoor fun and exploration. The park has a picnic area for travelers to relax after a tiring walk. For campers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a place to set up their tents for the night, the park has a campsite with sewer and electric hookups, toilets, and showers. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or an aspiring geologist, this ancient wonder offers a timeless experience.
Other activities to enjoy nearby
Entrance and sign of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science – Chad Robertson Media/Shutterstock
When it’s time to mix things up a bit, the region has plenty of other activities. About 3 miles south of the forest sits the center of the small, tranquil town known as Flora, a great stop for a quick bite or coffee. The town offers a charming and slow-paced atmosphere, making it ideal for visitors who want to recharge. A 30-minute drive south from the Petrified Forest sits LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, known for its lush greenery. The park sits on 305 acres of land with nature trails, camping sites (with utility hookups and hot showers), picnic spots, and an 18-hole disc golf course.
If fishing is your thing, Mayes Lake, located inside the LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, is one fishing spot you really need to visit. Anglers have opportunities to catch many types of fish, including bream, catfish, crappie, and bass. The lake has a boat launch, making it a great option for both shore and deep water fishing. Paddleboards, kayaks, and electric trolling motors are allowed. Just make sure you have a valid fishing license from the Magnolia State.
History and nature buffs will be thrilled by the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, nestled in the same park. There, you can learn more about the home of the second-longest river in the U.S., including its many habitats. You can also explore well-kept dinosaur fossils, an aquarium network, and displays of both current and historic wildlife.
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