Ferne Clyffe State Park, Shawnee Hills Travel Guide

4.8 (1787)

Explore towering bluffs, scenic waterfalls, and lush trails in the heart of the Illinois Ozarks at Ferne Clyffe State Park.

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Ferne Clyffe State Park

Ferne Clyffe State Park, nestled in the Shawnee Hills of Southern Illinois, offers a ruggedly beautiful escape with towering bluffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. This 2,430-acre park is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility in the heart of the Illinois Ozarks.

A brief summary to Ferne Clyffe State Park

90 Goreville Rd, Goreville, Illinois, 62939, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ferne Clyffe State Park.

Visit in late April or early May for the best views of springtime wildflowers, or in October for stunning fall foliage.
Check the waterfall conditions before you go; the waterfalls are most impressive after a good rain.
Arrive early on weekends and during warmer months, as the park can get crowded.
Bring appropriate footwear for hiking, as some trails can be rocky or muddy.

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Explore Ferne Clyffe State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ferne Clyffe State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Ferne Clyffe State Park is located a few miles southeast of Goreville, Illinois. From Interstate 24, take Exit 7 for Goreville/Tunnel Hill. Follow the signs for Illinois Route 37, and head south. The park entrance is approximately one mile south of Goreville on Route 37. Parking is available in multiple lots throughout the park, providing access to various trailheads and attractions. Parking is free.
Bicycle

Ferne Clyffe State Park is accessible via US Bicycle Route 76. A spur trail along the east side of Illinois Route 37 connects the bicycle route to the park. Once inside the park, bicycle riding is limited to paved roads as bicycles are not permitted on the trails. Parking is available in multiple lots throughout the park.

Discover more about Ferne Clyffe State Park

Ferne Clyffe State Park, located near Goreville, Illinois, is a natural scenic spot that has been inspiring visitors for nearly a century. The park's name is derived from the abundance of ferns and towering rock cliffs found within its boundaries. Originally purchased by the state in 1949 from Emma Rebman, a local school teacher who opened the park to the public , Ferne Clyffe now draws over 200,000 nature enthusiasts annually.The park boasts impressive rock formations, including Hawks' Cave, a 150-foot-long shelter bluff, and a 100-foot-tall intermittent waterfall on the Big Rocky Hollow trail. With over 700 species of plants, the park's diverse flora creates a colorful backdrop, especially in the spring and fall. Visitors can explore the park's 18 trails, ranging in difficulty and length, that wind through picturesque woods and past unique geological features. Popular activities include hiking, camping, rock climbing, fishing, and picnicking.Ferne Clyffe Lake, a 16-acre artificial lake created in the late 1950s, provides additional recreational opportunities. Bank fishing is permitted, and a one-mile trail encircles the lake. The park also features a Class A campground, Deer Ridge, offering modern amenities, as well as more rustic camping options at Turkey Ridge. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a peaceful picnic, or a chance to connect with nature, Ferne Clyffe State Park offers a memorable experience in the heart of Southern Illinois.