Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site, River Bend Travel Guide

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Explore Illinois' colonial past at this historic site with scenic Mississippi River views, earthen fort remains, and a glimpse into early American life.

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Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Overlooking the Mississippi River, Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site preserves the remains of an 18th-century French fort and the history of the vanished town of Kaskaskia, Illinois' first capital. Visitors can explore the earthen remains of the fort, enjoy scenic views, and learn about the region's rich colonial past.

A brief summary to Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

14372 Park Rd, Ellis Grove, Illinois, 62241, US
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Monday 8 am-4 pm
Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
Thursday 8 am-4 pm
Friday 8 am-4 pm
Saturday 8 am-4 pm
Sunday 8 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site.

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos of the Mississippi River.
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the scenic areas around the fort.
Check the site's schedule for special events that offer deeper insights into the fort's history.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in some areas.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching along the river and enjoy the local wildlife.

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Explore Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

To reach Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site by car, navigate toward Ellis Grove, IL. From Springfield, take I-55 South to I-255 South towards East St. Louis. Continue on I-255 to US-51 South, then follow US-51 South to IL-3 South. Continue on IL-3 South until you see signs for Ellis Grove. Turn onto Park Rd, where you will find Fort Kaskaskia. Parking is available at the site. There are three accessible parking spots by the main shelter.
Public Transportation

If using public transportation, take an Amtrak train to Alton, IL. From Alton, arrange a rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) or taxi to Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site in Ellis Grove, approximately 40 miles away. Expect to pay around $50-$70 for the rideshare or taxi service.

Discover more about Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site

Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site, near Chester, Illinois, offers a captivating glimpse into the state's early history. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, the 200-acre park encompasses the remnants of Fort Kaskaskia, constructed by the French around 1759 to defend the strategically important town of Kaskaskia.Founded in 1703, Kaskaskia was a vital French settlement and served briefly as the first capital of Illinois from 1818 to 1820. The fort itself, though never fully completed, was periodically occupied by French and U.S. troops. Today, visitors can explore the time-worn earthworks that outline the fort's perimeter. The site includes four major sections: the fort remains, Garrison Hill Cemetery, the Mississippi River overlook, and a campground. Garrison Hill Cemetery was established in 1891 to reinter the remains of early settlers whose graves were threatened by Mississippi River flooding. The grassy bluff offers stunning views of the river and Kaskaskia Island, with interpretive panels detailing the area's history. Fort Kaskaskia also played a role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition, serving as a recruitment and supply point in 1803.Visitors can also explore the nearby Pierre Menard Home State Historic Site via a footpath from the bluff. The historic home offers a glimpse into the life of Pierre Menard, a fur trader and Illinois' first lieutenant governor.