Discover the Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area: A Journey Through Time
Explore the Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area, where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty in Shawnee National Forest, Illinois.
Nestled in the heart of Illinois, the Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area offers visitors a unique glimpse into ancient Native American history. This historical landmark is not only a site of archaeological significance but also a stunning natural area, perfect for hiking and exploring. Discover ancient burial mounds, petroglyphs, and the enchanting beauty of the surrounding Shawnee National Forest, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area
- Simpson, Illinois, 62985, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas and intricate petroglyphs.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
- Respect the archaeological sites by not disturbing any mounds or petroglyphs.
Getting There
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Car
From the town of Simpson, IL, head south on IL-145 S. Continue on IL-145 S for about 2.5 miles. Then turn left onto Millstone Bluff Road, which is unmarked but leads directly towards the archaeological area. Follow Millstone Bluff Road for approximately 1 mile until you reach the Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area. There is a small parking area available for visitors.
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Public Transportation + Walking
If you are using public transportation, first take a bus or train to the nearest major city, such as Carbondale, IL. From Carbondale, use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft to get to Simpson, IL. Once in Simpson, follow the instructions for car travel above to reach the Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area, or walk south on IL-145 S to Millstone Bluff Road and then follow that road to the site. Note that walking from Simpson to the site may take about 30-40 minutes.
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Bicycle
For those looking to bike, you can start in Simpson, IL, and head south on IL-145 S. Be cautious as the road may not have bike lanes. After about 2.5 miles, turn left onto Millstone Bluff Road. The total biking distance from Simpson to the archaeological area is approximately 4 miles, which should take about 20-30 minutes depending on your cycling speed.
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