About Mississippi Petrified Forest
This shady woodland outside Flora holds an unusual collection of trees that stopped being wood millions of years ago. Ancient logs were buried by sediment, then slowly replaced by minerals until their grain, bark, and growth rings were preserved in stone. Today the petrified trunks rest among living oaks, pines, and wildflowers.
A half-mile nature trail loops through the forest and passes several especially large specimens, including a broad stone log nicknamed Caveman’s Bench. Interpretive signs explain how groundwater carried silica into the buried wood and created fossils that look remarkably fresh despite their immense age.
Admission also includes the Earth Science Museum, where polished petrified wood, minerals, fossils, and prehistoric displays add context to the outdoor walk. The privately operated attraction is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though holiday hours may vary. The compact trail and museum make it an easy stop, while the contrast between living forest and stone trees gives the place its memorable, almost time-warped atmosphere.