Discover the Natural Beauty of Fort Defiance State Park
Explore Fort Defiance State Park: A Scenic Retreat at the Confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, Perfect for Outdoor Adventures and History.
Nestled at the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, Fort Defiance State Park offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a rich tapestry of history. Ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, this park is a perfect getaway for tourists looking to explore the great outdoors.
A brief summary to Fort Defiance State Park
- US-60 &, US-62, Cairo, IL, 62914, US
- +1618-734-4127
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9 am-8 pm
- Friday 9 am-8 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 9 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic views by the river.
- Don't forget your camera; the sunsets over the rivers can be breathtaking!
- Check the park's official website for any special events or guided tours.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start by heading south on US-51. Continue on US-51 until you reach the junction with US-60. Merge onto US-60 and follow it for about 10 miles. As you approach Cairo, keep an eye out for the signs directing you to Fort Defiance State Park, which will be located at the intersection of US-60 and US-62. The park entrance will be on your right, and there is ample parking available.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus to Cairo from your location in Little Egypt. Check the local transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes. Once in Cairo, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Fort Defiance State Park, as public transportation options may not directly serve the park. The taxi ride should take approximately 10-15 minutes and will cost around $10-20 depending on the service used.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous and wish to bike to Fort Defiance State Park, you can rent a bike in Little Egypt. Head south on US-51 and then merge onto US-60. The ride is about 10 miles and can take roughly 1 hour depending on your biking speed. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic laws, as some sections may have limited bike lanes.
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Walking
Walking to Fort Defiance State Park is not recommended due to the distance and lack of pedestrian-friendly paths directly leading to the park. However, if you are close by in Cairo, you can walk from downtown to the park, which is about 2 miles away. Head south on US-51 to the intersection of US-60 and US-62, where the park is located. Always be cautious of traffic and try to walk during daylight hours for safety.
Discover more about Fort Defiance State Park
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