Parks and Rec...a Wreck?

I am a big fan of recreational parks of all kinds. The parks in Mississippi have been a culture adjustment for me. First of all, the local parks are not that big. I'm used to sprawling green space, lush forest trails with labeled trees and other interesting foliage, and maybe even a pond or some babbling brooks. The parks I am used to in Ohio also have plenty of park amenities (picnic tables and benches with loving messages on a plaque) and opportunities for athletic activities (tennis, basketball, and see-sawing). I expect parks to be in excellent condition and up to current safety standards (handicap access, rails for stairs).

The parks in Mississippi are scarce, lack what I like to think of as dynamism, and are not well-kept. I know they try, and I don't want to offend those small parks who do have loyal patrons and volunteer care-takers, and I am sure it's due to lack of city and state funds to expand on these parks. I also feel that since Mississippi is so invested in hunting, the majority of park-potential land isn't available, and there's probably little demand for the types of parks I miss and desire.

The one park I have been most impressed with is the Vicksburg National Military Park. I've been there two times now, and it carries the magic of most national parks, plus the magnanimous impact of the Civil War history. The first thing you need to do is view the short twenty minute film, summarizing how Vicksburg was such a turning point in the Civil War. It's a drive-through park, and you can choose to drive through the Union or Confederate side of the park and stop at significant landmarks. As you drive through, the park offers a free cell phone audio tour of good quality. If you have the time, I'd recommend driving through both sides (and I know I'm biased, but the Union side is much more picturesque and interesting). Once you get through the half-way point, take time to go through the dredged up ship from the Mississippi River, and then make your way through the cemetery. This National Military Park is a worthy tribute and a must-see destination if you're anywhere near it. You should reserve 1-3 hours to really do justice to the park, and drive through Old Vicksburg if you have time (where you can find the Coca Cola museum, and a cute coffee shop that often has live music).

Lastly, if you get the opportunity to drive along any part of the Natchez Trace Parkway that stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, TN (it passes through Tupelo, if you're interested in a pretty neat Elvis stop). This might actually be the glory of Mississippi. Be sure to pick up a specifically Natchez guide book, so you can soak up the history as you drive. I can do a full post just on the Trace, so I'll save my enthusiasm for it later.

Anyways, I'm still exploring. Mississippi is a beautiful state, and I've been really impressed with it, but the parks here? Eh.