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Giant City Stone Fort: An Ancient Enclosure

Explore a prehistoric Native American stone enclosure within Illinois' Giant City State Park, offering a glimpse into the region's ancient past.

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Explore the Giant City Stone Fort Site, a prehistoric Native American enclosure within Giant City State Park. Built between A.D. 600-900, this reconstructed stone structure offers a glimpse into the past and the lives of early inhabitants of Southern Illinois.

A brief summary to Giant City Stone Fort Site

  • 2368-2380, Stonefort Rd, Makanda, IL, 62958, US

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail to the Stone Fort involves a steep climb and rocky terrain.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months, as there are no facilities on-site.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for cooler temperatures and optimal hiking conditions.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions in Giant City State Park, such as the Giant City Nature Trail and the Giant City Lodge.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Giant City Lodge, head east on Giant City Road for 1.5 miles until you reach Route 51. Turn right onto Route 51 South and continue for approximately 2 miles. Turn right onto Stonefort Road and follow it for about 1 mile. The Giant City Stone Fort Site will be on your left. Parking is limited.

  • Walking

    From the parking area, the Stone Fort Trail is a short, but steep, climb up to the stone wall. The trail contains large sandstone boulders, so please use caution when walking. The loop trail is about 1/3 mile in length.

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Discover more about Giant City Stone Fort Site

The Giant City Stone Fort Site, located in Giant City State Park near Makanda, Illinois, is a fascinating archaeological site dating back to the Late Woodland period (A.D. 600-900). The site features a partially reconstructed stone enclosure, offering visitors a tangible connection to the prehistoric Native Americans who once inhabited the region. Originally, the stone wall was approximately 285 feet long, six feet high, and nine feet thick. Early European settlers dismantled the original wall, using the stones for their own building purposes. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) rebuilt the wall as part of their work improving Giant City State Park, utilizing the remaining stones to reconstruct the structure to its original location. The purpose of the stone forts remains a topic of debate among archaeologists. While initial theories suggested they were military fortifications, the prevailing consensus now leans towards the idea that they served as meeting places, ceremonial locations, or trading posts for different groups. Today, visitors can explore the Stone Fort via a short, moderately challenging nature trail. The trail leads to the top of a bluff, where the reconstructed stone wall stands. Interpretive signage provides insights into the history and significance of the site. The surrounding Giant City State Park offers a variety of other attractions, including hiking trails, the Giant City Lodge, and the Giant City Nature Trail with its unique sandstone formations.

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