You are here

U.S. Camel Corps Returning To Vicksburg National Military Park

Share

Relieve history when the "U.S. Camel Corps" returns to Vicksburg National Military Park in April. NPS graphic.

Here's something you don't see every day: Camels in a national park. But there's some historical accuracy involved in the "return" of the camel corps to Vicksburg National Military Park in April.

According to park officials, during the summer of 1863 "the brave men of the 43rd Mississippi Infantry, Company A, were part of the forces manning the earthwork fortifications surrounding the city of Vicksburg. By their side was a most peculiar sight: their faithful mascot, Douglas the camel, which gave this unit its nickname of 'Camel Regiment.'"

On April 13, this nugget of history will be relived when Doug Baum recreates the U.S. Camel Corps with some of his camels during a visit to the park. The history he'll open a window on involves "Douglas," and what the park calls "the grand experiment of the U. S. Army to settle, supply, and defend the American West with its unique Camel Corps."

All programs will be held at the Surrender Interview Site inside the park on Pemberton Avenue (follow the camel signs!) with formal demonstrations at 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. Informal meet and greet with the U.S. Camel Corps will take place all day from 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. The program is free of charge and the park admission fee will be waived for visitors wishing to attend.

For more information on this and other exciting events at Vicksburg National Military Park, please call 601-636-0583.

Add comment

CAPTCHA

This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.

The Essential RVing Guide

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

The National Parks RVing Guide, aka the Essential RVing Guide To The National Parks, is the definitive guide for RVers seeking information on campgrounds in the National Park System where they can park their rigs. It's available for free for both iPhones and Android models.

This app is packed with RVing specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 parks.

You'll also find stories about RVing in the parks, some tips if you've just recently turned into an RVer, and some planning suggestions. A bonus that wasn't in the previous eBook or PDF versions of this guide are feeds of Traveler content: you'll find our latest stories as well as our most recent podcasts just a click away.

So whether you have an iPhone or an Android, download this app and start exploring the campgrounds in the National Park System where you can park your rig.