Best Gulf Coast states’ parks

The Discoverer Blog has named the best state parks from all 50 states. Among the four best Gulf Coast states’ parks for Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. Louisiana: Fontainebleau State Park is a 2,800-acre outdoor retreat in the Fontainebleau area, and is surrounded by water on three sides, making it an ideal place to soak up the sun in a kayak, canoe, or along the shores of one of its man-made beaches. Highlights: Bike, walk, or horseback ride along one of the state’s most treasured areas, Tammany Trace, an old Illinois Central Railroad turned paved path that traverses portions of the park located 23 miles west of Slidell, La. Mississippi: Nestled in the foothills of the treasured Appalachian Mountains, Tishomingo State Park is an eclectic mix of enchanting fern-filled crevices and large rock formations. Rich in Native American history, archaeological excavations confirm that Tishomingo was once home to Paleo Indian inhabitants dating back to 7000 B.C. Park Highlights: Drive along portions of the famed Natchez Trace Parkway, a national parkway that honors the historic Old Natchez Trace used by Native Americans for centuries. Located 52 miles NE of Tupelo, Miss. Alabama: Sweet home, where the skies are blue and the waterfalls are 104-feet tall. It’s no surprise that when Alabamians want to escape to the woods, they head to DeSoto State Park. Accentuated by rushing waterfalls, vibrant wildflowers, and rustic mountain terrain, DeSoto State Park covers over 3,500 acres, features 25 miles of hiking trails, and is the perfect place for a peaceful weekend away. Located 10 miles NE of Fort Payne, Ala. Florida: How many times can you say you’ve floated through a state park on an inner tube? While Florida may have a reputation for being the go-to state for beautiful beaches, when the weather warms up, you’ll find High Springs locals floating down the 6-mile, crystalline Ichetucknee River. Fed by nine natural springs, the Ichetucknee River flows through shaded hammocks and wetlands into the Santa Fe River. Visitors can enjoy its pristine turquoise waters year-round. 85 miles west of Jacksonville. (Source: The Discoverer Blog 07/2019)