"The Shiloh National Military Park commemorates the site of one of the first decisive conflicts of the Western Theater of the Civil War. In 1862, more than 100,000 troops met here for two days of furious fighting, which concluded in almost 25,000 casualties. Also on-site is the Shiloh Indian Mounds, a separate National Historic Landmark where Native Americans lived some 800 years ago. Since the park covers more than 4,200 acres, it’s crucial to stop at the visitor center for a quick orientation before exploring. Here, you’ll find permanent exhibitions, displays of artifacts from the Battle of Shiloh, and a couple of informative films. Helpful rangers can provide more context, plus maps for a 12-mile, self-guided driving tour of the battlefield. Best of all, admission is free to all the attractions in this historic park."