May 7-12, 2018

On Monday we traveled to Vicksburg, MS.  While planning where we are going next, I usually have a 2^nd and 3^rd option for where to stay if there is no availability at our 1^st choice.  I didn’t research other option because the campground we were headed for had over 100 sites so I really didn’t think it would be an issue getting a site for a couple of days.  BUT when I called the campground, as we were within 10 miles of arriving, we were informed there was not one site available. 

Luckily there was a Walmart nearby where we could park and start calling other campgrounds in the area.  The first three we called were booked.  We were finally able to procure a spot at the Ameristar Casino RV Park. 

That evening we spent a couple of hours at the casino located across the street.

The next day we toured the Vicksburg National Military Park. 

We began the tour in the Visitor Center where we watched a short video on the significance of the “Campaign for Vicksburg”.  Vicksburg was the last major Confederate stronghold on the Mississippi River.  The successful ending of the Vicksburg Campaign significantly degraded the ability of the Confederacy to maintain its war effort. 

The 16 mile driving tour begins at the arch. 

We were able to listen to a recording on our phone detailing the events that occurred at each stop along the route. 

Later in the afternoon we took a stroll along the Vicksburg Riverfront where there are a series of murals painted on Mississippi River flood walls that depict the city’s historical significance, as well as its envisioned future role in the region’s commerce and culture.

 

On Wednesday we crossed first into Louisiana and then into Arkansas. 

While researching campgrounds I came across one that sounded just right for a few days of rest and relaxation. 

 Rising Star, a Corp of Engineer park located on the Arkansas River by Pool 3 Lock and Dam has 25 sites with electric and water.

When I checked on Reserve America about availability I was surprised to discover there were only 3 sites reserved. 

There was no one manning the booth upon our arrival so we drove around the two loops of the campground.  We eliminated the sites in loop B because it was very heavily treed and therefore would almost be impossible to receive satellite reception. 

 

The C sites are located along the river.  Our choice of C6 turned out to be perfect for us. 

We spent the next few days relaxing, taking walks, watching the barges travel along the river, attending a fish fry hosted by one of the other campers and enjoying spectacular sunsets.