Giant City State Park, Corn Belt Travel Guide

4.8 (2671)

Explore towering sandstone formations, hike scenic trails, and discover the rich history of Southern Illinois at Giant City State Park.

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Giant City State Park

Giant City State Park, located near Makanda, Illinois, is a captivating natural wonderland known for its massive sandstone formations resembling city streets built for giants. With over 4,000 acres of stunning landscapes in the Shawnee National Forest, the park offers hiking, rock climbing, camping, and a glimpse into the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Giant City State Park

235 Giant City Rd, Makanda, Illinois, 62958, US
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Monday 6 am-10 pm
Tuesday 6 am-10:30 pm
Wednesday 6 am-10:30 pm
Thursday 6 am-10 pm
Friday 6 am-10 pm
Saturday 6 am-10 pm
Sunday 6 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Giant City State Park.

Visit the Giant City Nature Trail to experience the park's iconic sandstone formations known as the 'Giant City Streets'.
Stop by the Visitor Center to pick up maps, learn about the park's history and geology, and get updates on trail conditions.
Be aware of wildlife, including copperhead snakes, and watch where you step.
The Indian Creek and Red Cedar Trails are closed during shotgun deer season.
Consider visiting the Giant City Lodge for a meal, especially their famous fried chicken (seasonal).

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Giant City State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Giant City State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Giant City State Park is located south of Carbondale, Illinois. From I-57, take exit 54B for Route 13 West towards Carbondale. Continue for approximately 15 miles until you see Walmart on your right. Turn left onto Giant City Road and continue south for 12 miles; this road leads directly into the park. Parking is available throughout the park at trailheads, the visitor center, and the lodge. Parking is free.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Giant City State Park, you can take a Greyhound bus to Carbondale. From there, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the park, which is approximately 12 miles south. A taxi or rideshare from Carbondale to Giant City State Park will cost approximately $25-$40.

Discover more about Giant City State Park

Giant City State Park, nestled in the Shawnee National Forest of Southern Illinois, is a captivating destination named for its unique sandstone formations. These massive bluffs, carved over 12,000 years ago, create a maze of narrow passageways that evoke the feeling of wandering through the streets of a city built for giants.The park's history stretches back millennia, with evidence of human habitation dating back 10,000 years. Shelter bluffs reveal blackened ceilings from ancient fires, and the remains of a Native American stone wall, erected between A.D. 600-800, can be seen near the main entrance. In more recent history, the park provided refuge for soldiers during the Civil War.In 1927, Illinois acquired over 1,100 acres, dedicating it as Giant City State Park. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) further developed the park in the 1930s, constructing the iconic Giant City Lodge and cabins using local sandstone and timber. The lodge, a masterpiece of rustic architecture, features a dining room famous for its fried chicken.Today, Giant City State Park attracts over 1.2 million visitors annually. Popular activities include hiking the Giant City Nature Trail, rock climbing at Devil's Standtable, and exploring the various other trails that wind through the diverse landscape. The park also offers camping, horseback riding, fishing, and picnicking.Visitors can learn more about the park's natural and cultural history at the Visitor Center, which features interpretive displays and films. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat into nature, Giant City State Park offers a memorable experience for all ages.