Lake Catherine State Park | Hot Springs

Information

Landmark: Lake Catherine State Park
City: Hot Springs
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Lake Catherine State Park, Hot Springs, USA Arkansas, North America

Vicksburg National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery located in Vicksburg, Mississippi. It serves as the final resting place for Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery occupies approximately 115 acres. It features rolling hills with uniform white headstones arranged in precise rows. A central monument, the Illinois Monument, stands at the highest point, constructed of granite and reaching 100 feet in height. The grounds are maintained with mowed grass and mature trees providing shade.

Location & Access Logistics

The cemetery is situated approximately 3 miles east of downtown Vicksburg, Mississippi. Access is via Clay Street (US Highway 80) which becomes National Park Road. The main entrance is clearly marked. Ample paved parking is available near the visitor center and throughout the cemetery grounds. No public transport directly serves the cemetery; private vehicle or taxi is recommended.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established by an Act of Congress on February 21, 1867, the cemetery was created to inter the remains of Union soldiers who died in the Vicksburg Campaign and siege. The land was acquired from private owners. The site is characterized by loess soil, typical of the Mississippi River bluffs, supporting deciduous forest vegetation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the grounds and observe the vast number of graves. The Illinois Monument offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Self-guided tours are available using a provided map or audio guide. The Vicksburg National Military Park Visitor Center, located adjacent to the cemetery, provides historical context and exhibits.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the visitor center. Shaded areas are provided by trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the cemetery. No food vendors are located within the cemetery itself; options are available in nearby Vicksburg.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is generally in the morning or late afternoon when the sun angle creates longer shadows and highlights the uniformity of the headstones. The most comfortable months for visiting are April, May, September, and October, avoiding the extreme heat and humidity of summer.

Facts & Legends

A unique feature is the "Unknown Soldier" section, containing the remains of over 12,000 Union soldiers whose identities could not be determined. The cemetery is part of the larger Vicksburg National Military Park, which preserves the battlefield of the pivotal 1863 siege.