Of all the amazing sites in Mississippi, the Petrified Forest is by far one of the most impressive. Millions of years in the making, it’s filled with ancient trees that have been transformed into stone wonders. Not only an incredible site, it’s also extremely unique – it’s the only forest of its kind in the eastern part of the United States. This remarkable natural wonder is an absolute must see. Check it out.

Mississippi Petrified Forest is located in the small town of Flora.

visitmississippi.org

Not your average forest, this one is filled with huge trees that have been transformed into stone.

DM/Flickr

So, just how did the forest come about?

Tom E./Yelp

About 36 million years ago, severe floods in the area tore down everything in their paths, including large fir and maple trees.

Donna H./Yelp

The trees then traveled down an ancient river channel, before coming to a stop at their present location.

Jessica R./Yelp

Over the years, subsequent floods deposited sand and silt over these sunken giants, setting the petrification process into motion.

Torri M./Yelp

Today, we are left with incredible fossils that exhibit perfectly preserved details.

faungg’s photos/Flickr

Truly a site to see, the forest was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1965.

Natalie Maynor/Flickr

Exploring the natural wonder is a breeze, thanks to a self-guided trail.

Torri M./Yelp

The trail takes you straight into the forest…

faungg’s photos/Flickr

…providing a close up look at the awe-inspiring petrified creations.

Tom E./Yelp

Jessica R./Yelp

You’ll also find informative signs along the way.

Jonna B./Yelp

Be sure to check out the signage, where you’ll find details on the forest and petrified wood in general.

sphyte/TripAdvisor

A visit to Mississippi Petrified Forest wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the onsite museum.

Jessica R./Yelp

Head inside, and you’ll find petrified wood from every state and from other countries, in addition to a variety of leaves, fruits, cones, bark, and other geologic formations.

Chrissie P./Yelp

There’s also a variety of fossils on display, including dinosaur footprints, whale bones, turtle shells, and more.

Adam AK47/TripAdvisor

To get a closer look at the forest and learn more about the petrification process, check out the video below.

visitmississippi.org

DM/Flickr

Tom E./Yelp

Donna H./Yelp

Jessica R./Yelp

Torri M./Yelp

faungg’s photos/Flickr

Natalie Maynor/Flickr

Jonna B./Yelp

sphyte/TripAdvisor

Chrissie P./Yelp

Adam AK47/TripAdvisor

Ready to explore Mississippi Petrified Forest? The national landmark is opened year-round (except for Christmas day and Thanksgiving) and is located at 124 Forest Park Road in Flora. Admission is $7 for adults and $6 for students and seniors. Click here for more information.

Looking for another unbelievable site in the state? Check out “Hiking To This Aboveground Cave In Mississippi Will Give You A Surreal Experience.“

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.