Millstone Bluff: An Ancient Native American Village
Discover ancient Native American history at Millstone Bluff in Shawnee National Forest, a unique archaeological site with trails and petroglyphs.
Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area, located in the Shawnee National Forest near Simpson, Illinois, offers a unique glimpse into prehistoric Native American life. This natural bluff, rising 320 feet above the surrounding valley, was once home to both Woodland and Mississippian cultures. Archaeological studies suggest that Millstone Bluff was established as a village around 1275 C.E. by people from the Kincaid site in the Ohio River Valley. The bluff's flat top, ringed by sandstone escarpments, provided a defensible location for early inhabitants. The Late Woodland people constructed stone forts around 600-900 AD, building stone walls across access points. Later, from 1350-1550 AD, the Mississippian people built homes and a stone box cemetery on the bluff. Visitors can explore the interpretive trail, approximately one mile long, that leads through the ancient village site. While little remains of the settlement beyond depressions in the earth, the trail features interpretive signs that explain the history and significance of the area. Don't miss the petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings etched into the bluff's northeast edge. These carvings depict birds, serpents, human-like figures, and other motifs. Millstone Bluff offers a fascinating look into the lives of prehistoric peoples and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Southern Illinois.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the trail, which includes some inclines and stairs.
- Bring water, as potable water is not available at the site.
- Stay on marked trails to help preserve the archaeological site.
- Visit in the spring or fall for the best weather and to avoid summer heat and humidity.
A brief summary to Millstone Bluff Archaeological Area
- Simpson, Illinois, 62985, US
Getting There
-
Driving
Millstone Bluff is accessible by car. From Harrisburg, take Highway 145 south for 22.5 miles to Highway 147. Turn right onto Highway 147 and go 1.5 miles to the Millstone Bluff entrance road. Turn right onto the entrance road and proceed to the trailhead parking lot. From Vienna, take Highway 146 east to Highway 147, go northeast on Hwy 147 for 11 miles to the Millstone Bluff entrance road. Turn left onto the entrance road and proceed to the trailhead parking lot. The final entrance road to the parking area is gravel and may have potholes, so drive slowly. Parking is free.
-
Walking
From the parking area, the trailhead is located to the right. Follow the wood-chipped path, which gradually inclines to the top of the bluff. The trail is approximately 0.75 miles long and includes some stairs. Benches are available along the trail for resting.
