A Civil War History Day Trip from
Wendy Oaks RV Resort to Vicksburg, MS

Greetings, Civil War enthusiasts! If you're fascinated by history and eager to visit the sites of significant battles, staying at Wendy Oaks RV Resort in Florence, MS, offers a perfect starting point. Vicksburg, Mississippi, a key location in Civil War history, is just a 35-minute drive away. Known for its critical role in the war, Vicksburg is a treasure trove of stories and landmarks waiting to be explored. This article provides a detailed day itinerary for experiencing the best Civil War attractions in Vicksburg and nearby areas, departing from and returning to Wendy Oaks RV Resort. Written at a 4th-grade reading level, it's packed with information to make your trip both educational and engaging. Let's plan your day of discovery!

The Historical Importance of Vicksburg

Vicksburg holds a vital place in Civil War history due to its strategic position along the Mississippi River. Perched on high bluffs, it controlled river traffic, making it essential for both the Union and Confederate forces. President Abraham Lincoln called Vicksburg "the key" to victory, believing that capturing it would secure the river and divide the Confederacy. In 1863, Union General Ulysses S. Grant led the Siege of Vicksburg, a 47-day campaign that ended with a Confederate surrender on July 4. This victory gave the Union control of the Mississippi River, splitting the South and shifting the war's momentum. Today, Vicksburg preserves this history through remarkable sites, all easily accessible from Wendy Oaks RV Resort, just 35 minutes away.

Your Day Itinerary: Exploring Civil War Sites from Wendy Oaks

Below is a carefully planned itinerary for a full day immersed in Civil War history. You'll leave Wendy Oaks in the morning, visit key locations in Vicksburg and its surroundings, and return to the resort by evening. Times are approximate, allowing flexibility as you explore.

8:00 AM – Breakfast at Wendy Oaks RV Resort

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your RV site. Wendy Oaks RV Resort, located on Highway 49 in Florence, MS, offers 36 sites equipped with picnic tables and fire pits. Prepare a meal like eggs or oatmeal to fuel your adventure. The serene 8-acre lake provides a peaceful backdrop as you get ready. Pack water, snacks, and a notebook for your journey ahead.

8:30 AM – Drive to Vicksburg National Military Park (35 minutes)

Set out west on I-20 toward Vicksburg, a 35-minute drive to the Vicksburg National Military Park at 3201 Clay Street. This park is the centerpiece of Civil War history in the region, and it's where your day truly begins.

9:05 AM – Tour Vicksburg National Military Park (3 hours)

Arrive at the park, which spans 1,800 acres and marks the site of the Siege of Vicksburg. Start at the Visitor Center, where a 20-minute film explains the battle's events in a clear, engaging way. Pick up a map for the 16-mile driving tour, featuring 1,325 monuments, cannons, and preserved earthworks. Key highlights include:

• USS Cairo Museum: View a restored Union gunboat sunk in 1862, recovered from the river with its cannons and equipment intact—an impressive relic of naval warfare.
• Shirley House: The only surviving wartime structure in the park, used by Union troops as a headquarters and observation post.
• Vicksburg National Cemetery: A resting place for over 17,000 Union soldiers, offering a solemn reminder of the war's toll.
• Drive slowly, stopping to read plaques and reflect on the history. Consider a guided tour from the Visitor Center for deeper insights.

12:05 PM – Lunch in Vicksburg (1 hour)

After the park, drive 5 minutes to downtown Vicksburg for lunch. Walnut Hills, located at 1214 Adams Street, is housed in a historic building and serves Southern classics like fried chicken and biscuits. It's a delicious and relaxing break to recharge for the afternoon.

1:05 PM – Visit the Old Court House Museum (1 hour)

Travel 5 minutes to 1008 Cherry Street to explore the Old Court House Museum. This striking red-brick building served as a courthouse during the Civil War and now houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and soldier inscriptions on the porch. Perched on a hill, it offers a scenic view of Vicksburg, blending history with beauty.

2:05 PM – Discover the Vicksburg Civil War Museum (1 hour)

Drive 2 minutes to 1010 Washington Street for the Vicksburg Civil War Museum. This newer museum features detailed exhibits, such as firearms, clothing, and personal items from the siege, shedding light on the lives of Vicksburg's residents during the conflict. It's compact yet rich with information, making it a valuable stop.

3:05 PM – Reflect at Cedar Hill Cemetery (45 minutes)

Head 5 minutes to 326 Lovers Lane to visit Cedar Hill Cemetery. Within this historic site lies "Soldier's Rest," where 5,000 Confederate soldiers are buried. Look for the grave of Douglas the Camel, a unique Confederate mascot. This quiet area invites contemplation of the war's human cost.

3:50 PM – Journey to Champion Hill Battlefield (25 minutes there, 45 minutes exploring)

Drive east on I-20 for 20 minutes, then take Highway 467 for 5 minutes to reach Champion Hill, approximately 20 miles from Vicksburg. This battlefield hosted a crucial clash on May 16, 1863, where Union forces defeated Confederates, paving the way for the Vicksburg siege. Though it's an open field with interpretive signs rather than a formal park, it's a significant site where over 700 lives were lost. Spend 45 minutes walking and reading to grasp its importance.

5:00 PM – Return to Wendy Oaks RV Resort (35 minutes)

Begin your 35-minute drive back to Wendy Oaks via I-20 east, arriving around 5:35 PM. The journey is straightforward, bringing you back to Florence, MS, just in time to unwind after a day of history.

5:35 PM – Dinner and Relaxation at Wendy Oaks RV Resort

Back at Wendy Oaks, prepare dinner at your site using the full hookups and picnic tables. Grill a simple meal like burgers or reheat lunch leftovers. Afterward, relax by the 8-acre lake—try fishing for bass or catfish, a free activity for campers—or sit by your fire pit to reflect on the day's experiences. The calm setting is ideal for a restful evening.

Why Wendy Oaks RV Resort Enhances Your Trip

Wendy Oaks RV Resort is an excellent choice for this Civil War journey. Located just 35 minutes from Vicksburg, it provides convenient access to these historic sites while offering a tranquil retreat at day's end. With only 36 sites across 8 acres, it's a small, welcoming community, unlike the bustle of a hotel. Your RV stays secure at your site, with ample space for any mementos, such as books or maps from the museums. The resort's location off Highway 49 ensures easy travel, and its affordability beats hotel rates, leaving you more to spend on your trip. After exploring, the lake and fire pits offer a peaceful way to relax, making Wendy Oaks the ideal base.

Tips for a Successful Day

• Leave Early: Depart by 8:30 AM to cover all sites comfortably.
• Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Check Schedules: Museums may close at 5 PM, so plan accordingly.
• Capture Memories: Take photos of monuments and battlefields to share your adventure.

Conclusion: A Day of Civil War Discovery

This itinerary from Wendy Oaks RV Resort to Vicksburg and Champion Hill offers Civil War buffs a remarkable day of exploration. You'll visit the expansive Vicksburg National Military Park, delve into museums rich with artifacts, pay respects at historic cemeteries, and stand on the lesser-known Champion Hill Battlefield. Each stop reveals the courage and struggle of 1863, bringing history to life. Returning to Wendy Oaks ensures a restful night, surrounded by nature's calm. Reserve your spot at Wendy Oaks RV Resort, prepare for your journey, and immerse yourself in the compelling legacy of Vicksburg's Civil War past!