The state of Mississippi boasts some great parks, but none have a backstory quite like that of Grand Gulf Military Park. Spanning hundreds of acres, the park occupies what was once the town of Grand Gulf. Visitors today can relive the history of Grand Gulf – all while enjoying typical park perks. Offering the best of both worlds, it’s one park you simply can’t pass up.
Civil War history and outdoor fun abound at Grand Gulf Military Park in Port Gibson.
Anything but typical, the park preserves the memory of Grand Gulf, a bustling river town.
Once incorporated in 1833, Grand Gulf grew rapidly. By the late 1830s, it had about 1,000 residents, making it the third largest town in Mississippi.
There isn’t one specific reason for Grand Gulf’s demise. Instead, there are several.
A series of disasters ravaged Grand Gulf, beginning with the yellow fever epidemic in 1843, followed by a steamboat explosion and then a tornado.
By the time the Civil War began, Grand Gulf included just a few abandoned buildings.
During the war, two significant battles were fought at Grand Gulf, destroying its remaining structures.
Grand Gulf Military Park officially opened in 1962, roughly 100 years after the Civil War battles fought on its grounds.
Aiming to keep Grand Gulf’s history alive, the 450-acre park boasts an array of significant relics from yesteryear, including a collection of coaches and carriages.
Several restored structures that date back to Grand Gulf’s heyday are also scattered throughout the park.
There’s a museum too. Bringing Grand Gulf’s story to life, the museum is filled with photographs, maps, scale models, and authentic artifacts from its heyday.
In addition to historic relics, Grand Gulf Military Park boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, an observation tower, and campgrounds.
For more info, call the park’s office at (601) 437-5911. You can also visit the Grand Gulf Military Park website or Facebook page.
Looking for another park with plenty of perks? Then you’ll want to pay a visit to the Mississippi park that’s got bridges, waterfalls, trails, camping, and more!
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