Sequoia Trees in MS?

The Mississippi Petrified Forest is a natural wonder which contains ancient trees, including Sequoia!  Many of these petrified trees are estimated to be at least a thousand years old at the time a massive flood deposited the log jam in the current location.   Years of subsequent flooding and silt deposits covered what would become the petrified logs visitors see today!   The process of erosion first exposed these logs in the 1800's.   However, it was not until 1962 that real conservation efforts began when R. J. "Bob" and Shirl Schabilion purchased the forest.  They realized that this Mississippi treasure needed to be preserved for future generation and their conservation efforts created what is seen today in the park.   . 

Our Frugal Family Travelers had heard of the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona but were quite surprised to learn of the existence of this petrified forest in Mississippi, just outside of Jackson. Upon discovery, we started planning our trip, which took place over Spring Break. We wanted to tent camp and were pleasantly surprised to learn that the forest had a small campground suitable for RVs and tent campers alike.   Upon arrival we found the welcome center, where we were able to pay for our campsite and purchase tour tickets.    One of the neatest parts of our camping adventure was the boxcar adjacent to our camp.    We felt like we were truly in a scene right out of the "Boxcar Children" book series.     Those who have visited Chimney Rock and Ruby Falls will likely be at home in this setting, as it has a very similar feel.    If gem mining is something you and your Frugal Family Travelers enjoy, there is a station set up for this!   There is also a neat museum with a collection of fossils.   There is a lot to discover, especially if you like science!  The pictures below will tell more of the story.......enjoy!



Directions:

124 Forest Park Rd, Flora, MS 39071


Cost: 

$7 Adults; $6 Seniors and kids under 12 years of age

Camping:

$22 for full service hook up
$12 for primitive camp sites

Note:   Pack bug spray and sunscreen! 

Disclaimer:

All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.

Unexpected places on the Northshore for a Kayaking Adventure

It is no secret that natural beauty abounds across the lake from New Orleans on the Northshore!  From the many parks, trails, Tammany Trace, St. Tammany Fishing Pier and particularly Camp Salmen Nature Park, there is no shortage of places for outdoor enthusiasts.  However, many people forget or  do not realize that there are some great spots for water exploration via a kayak or canoe! Whether you own your own kayak/canoe or choose to rent one,  a day of fun on the water can be created for your Frugal Family Travelers by exploring some of the locations listed below.  

Note: Check with the rental companies for rates and water access points.   Rental companies may not provide transportation to all of the areas indicated below.  

1.  Bayou Liberty

If you are a frequent reader of our blog posts, you already know that our Frugal Family Travelers love Camp Salmen.   However, we recently discovered a bayou access point for kayaks and canoes, directly across from the playground area and are now even more thrilled to have this amazing place available to visit!    Also, the parking lot is adjacent to the launch, which makes it and easy place to launch a kayak.   Pack a lunch and plan to explore the park after your float trip.  

Directions:   Camp Salmen

2.  Bayou Cane 

For those who remember the local chef Justin Wilson and his Cajun cooking shows, keep him in mind, while you float the Cane Bayou.    His 8,000 sq. ft. home can be viewed through the trees a short paddle down the bayou on the left from the boat launch.    Also, this float will take you all the way to Lake Pontchartrain.   

Directions:   

24380 Ronald Reagan Hwy, Lacombe, LA 70445

Click for details regarding Kayak rentals!

3.  Bayou Bonfouca

Access this area at Heritage Park in Slidell.  This boat launch is suitable for motorized boats as well as kayakers and canoes.  If you have kids, this park has a great splash area for cooling off after you canoe or kayak.  Call the Bait Shop in Slidell to see about canoe/kayak rentals! 

4. Bayou Lacombe

At the the end of Main Street in Lacombe, LA is a great boat launch, suitable for both large boats, canoes and kayaks.  

Directions:  

24380 Ronald Reagan Hwy, Lacombe, LA 70445