🚐 From Texas to Florida

March 10, 2024

Exploring the Deep South One State at a Time

After soaking in Galveston’s beach vibes and a moonlit farewell, we packed up the RV and hit the open road once again—this time heading east through the soulful heart of the American South. From crawfish farms in Louisiana to Civil War sites in Mississippi and the coastal charm of Florida, every state offered a new flavor, story, and surprise.

🌙 Farewell, Texas

A Moonset Goodbye and Boondocking Adventures

Leaving Galveston was bittersweet. Perfect weather, friendly faces, and peaceful beaches had us hooked—but the road was calling.Armed with our Harvest Hosts membership and plenty of off-grid gear, we were ready for nights without hookups and days full of discovery.

🐊 Louisiana: The Pelican State

French Roots, Crawfish Farms & Sentimental Stops

Crossing into Louisiana felt like entering a new world—steeped in culture, tradition, and swampy beauty.

📌 Fun Facts:

• Mardi Gras is a legal holiday here

• 7% of residents speak French

• Home of Sadie’s heritage—the Catahoula Leopard Dog 🐾

As crawfish farms dotted the landscape, we felt a warm connection to the land, made even more special by our pup’s roots.

🏡 Vermilionville Living History Museum, Lafayette

Stepping Into the Past (and Sleeping by the River)

Tucked into the heart of Lafayette, Vermilionville is a 23-acre journey through early Acadian life.

• Authentic buildings from 1765–1890

• Live artisan demonstrations

• Serene trails by the river

Thanks to Harvest Hosts, we stayed the night on-site—our RV parked among history, nature, and stillness.

🎶 Mississippi: Magnolias, Catfish & Civil War Echoes

Exploring the Heart of Southern History

Mississippi greeted us with open landscapes and deep stories. Known for its music and magnolias, it’s also the catfish capital of the world! 🐟

📍 Our stop: Beauvoir – The Jefferson Davis Home & Library

• Historic mansion

• Confederate cemetery

• Educational exhibits

Harvest Hosts once again gave us an unforgettable overnight stay on peaceful, well-kept grounds steeped in historical significance.

🐌 Alabama: A Quick Pass Through Cotton & Curiosities

Holiday Origins, Farmlands & Snails?! 🐚

Alabama’s charm lies in its quiet beauty and quirky trivia:

• 🎄 First state to recognize Christmas as a holiday

• 🥜 Major peanut & cotton producer

• 🐌 Most snail species of any U.S. state

Though we didn’t stop overnight, the views alone made it worth the drive—rolling hills, forests, and Southern charm at every bend.

🐬 Florida: The Panhandle’s Coastal Charm

Southern Hospitality by the Sea

Welcome to the Florida Panhandle, where fried oysters meet front porches and everyone smiles like they mean it.

✨ Highlights:

• Base of the Blue Angels (NAS Pensacola)

• Deep-rooted hurricane resilience

• Endless beach towns with a Southern soul

Though many think of theme parks when they hear Florida, the Panhandle has its own unique beat—and we loved every minute of it.

🧭 Final Thoughts: Why We Love the South

Culture, History, Food, and Soul

From Louisiana’s bayous to Mississippi’s Civil War sites and Florida’s hidden coastal gems, this stretch of road was more than a route—it was a living history tour with flavor and heart.

🚐 Huge shoutout to Harvest Hosts, which made:

• 🏕️ Safe, scenic overnights

• 🏛️ Access to cultural landmarks

• 💸 Budget-friendly travel…all possible.

🌴 Coming Up Next...

St. Andrew’s State Park & Panama City, Florida

Next week, we roll into beachfront bliss and emerald waters. Expect sea breezes, sunrises, and a taste of Old Florida charm.

💬 Have You Been to These Southern Gems?

We’d love to hear from you!Drop your stories, travel tips, or questions in the comments—or connect with us on social!

🌟 Like, share, and follow for more adventures down America’s backroads.