Page 67 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2024

Thankfully, the South doesn’t experience those
harsh winters that our northern friends do, so we typically always have something in bloom and in the summertime, there are a few extra special spots that are worthy of a bucket list add.
Spend some time exploring areas such as Shepard State Park in Gautier, Buccaneer State Park in Waveland, or the Pascagoula River Audubon Center in Moss Point and do a little sightseeing, birdwatching, camping, kayaking, or hiking.
If taking a walk or ride on the wild side fits your staycation plans, add the Gator Ranch & Airboat Swamp Tours to your list and see just what lurks beneath the surface. Hint, hint. It’s alligators and they are some of the biggest and oldest in captivity. Stroll along protected walkways and hand feed gators up close and personal. It's the oldest alligator farm in
the Magnolia State on 105 swamp land acres that are tucked snuggly along the Grand Bay Estuary in Moss Point and Pascagoula. You can even mark holding a baby alligator from your bucket list.
One of the Coast’s most majestic don't-miss experiences is also one of the oldest living things in America, the Friendship Oak in Long Beach. This grandiose Southern live oak tree is well over 500 years old, but its age isn’t even the most impressive thing about it. There’s also the sheer size of the massive tree that dates back to 1487. Throughout centuries, the Friendship Oak has withstood numerous hurricanes, which is pretty remarkable considering the tree sits near the beachfront of the University of Southern Mississippi’s Gulf Coast campus. This must-see sight is just perfect for that staycation selfie.
Pascagoula River Audubon Center.
Friendship Oak.
So, make yourself a staycation bucket list with lots of nearby attractions you'd like to see or try. As you check off your list, add new adventures such as trails you've always meant to hike, gazing at the stars while lying on one of the glorious beaches, eating at a restaurant your friends and family endlessly jabber about,
or attending a festival you've avoided your entire life.
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net July 2024 | 67