VETERANS LAKE PAVILION

Chickasaw National Recreation Area is where two ecosystems, the eastern deciduous forest and the mixed-grass prairie of the west, converge. This creates unique geological formations and attracts a wide variety of plant and animal species.

Recreation: Boat, swim, or fish on Veterans Lake. Hike, walk or bike the Veteran's Trail that loops around the lake. Veteran's Trail is the only paved trail in the park, which makes it stroller and roller blade-friendly. Visit the park's Hiking and Walking page for more trails. The Bison Pasture is just up the road, so bring the kids and cameras to see the beautiful animals grazing.

Nearby: The Travertine Nature Center is worth a visit, as is the collection of springs and seeps nearby. Pavilion Springs, Black Sulphur Springs and Hillside Springs are the region's remaining natural mineral springs and have historically been used for medicinal and restorative healing.