Description - Vicksburg National Military Park preserves and commemorates the individuals who were involved in the battle of Vicksburg during the American Civil War.

Attractions - Vicksburg National Military Park was established to commemorate and preserve one of the most decisive battle sites of the American Civil War, the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg.

The Vicksburg campaign was waged from March 29 to July 4, 1863. It included 47 days of Union siege operations against the city of Vicksburg. Located high on the bluffs, Vicksburg served as a fortress guarding the Mississippi River. Its surrender on July 4, 1863 divided the South and gave the North undisputed control of the Mississippi River. Today, the battlefield at Vicksburg includes over 1,300 monuments, reconstructed trenches and earthworks, one antebellum structure, over 125 emplaced cannon, restored Union gunboat USS Cairo and the Vicksburg National Cemetery.

Today, the battlefield at Vicksburg is in an excellent state of preservation. It includes over 1,300 monuments and markers, reconstructed trenches and earthworks, one antebellum structure, over 125 emplaced cannon, restored Union gunboat, USS Cairo, and the Vicksburg National Cemetery.

Recreation - Recreation opportunities at the site include hiking and walking, scenic driving, viewing reenactments, touring battlefields, viewing exhibits and viewing scenery. Orientation to the park begins at the park visitor center with an 18 minute film. Visitors can then drive the historic 16 mile tour road through Union and Confederate siege lines.

Climate - Southwestern Mississippi experiences sunny, humid and rainy periods throughout the year. Sudden and severe thunderstorms are common. Visitors can expect mild winters and summers that are hot and humid. Mississippi lies mainly in the subtropics. The climate is mild with the coldest months experiencing low temperatures near 40 degrees F. Summer temperatures frequently reach 100 degrees F, with coastal breezes providing cooling relief. Humidity is highest in August and September reaching an average close to 90%. The highest rainfall comes during the spring months, but December and January are wet, too. Expect temperatures in the northeastern region to be somewhat cooler than the rest of the state.

Location - The military park is located in southwestern Mississippi in the town of Vicksburg. The city lies on the Mississippi/Louisiana border and the Mississippi River.

LAT: 32.3532014
LONG: -90.8470482