Petrified wood? Of course it's found in Arizona, in the Petrified Forest National Park. Just about everyone associates these age old logs, dating back millions of years, with the desert park in Arizona. Even the name associated with some of these large crystallized trees ( Araucarioxylon Arizonicum) contains the word Arizona. In Arizona's desert setting, tons of petrified segments are strewn across the hills, easily spotted in the treeless environment.
     This view shows off the only known petrified forest in the eastern half of the United States. In Flora, Mississippi, a search for usable farmland revealed a collection of ancient logs. The find was first recorded by Benjamin L.C. Wailes in 1854. A National Geographic Magazine article spurred on the publics interest in these 36 million year old natural wonders.
     The woodland trails of the Mississippi Petrified Forest are open to the public most of the year. The park also features a forested campground, and a visitors center display of fascinating fossils, petrified wood and natural minerals, plus gift shop.