Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve: Illinois's Ancient Canvas
Explore ancient Native American rock art and scenic natural beauty at Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve in Southern Illinois.
Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve, nestled in the rolling farmland of Southern Illinois, protects the state's largest collection of Native American rock art. The 198-acre preserve features a 2-mile loop trail that winds through a scenic ravine, showcasing prehistoric petroglyphs and pictographs alongside natural beauty.
A brief summary to Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve
- Piney Creek Rd, Ava, Illinois, 62907, US
- +1618-826-2706
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking on uneven terrain and crossing creeks.
- Visit after a rain for the chance to see waterfalls, but be cautious of slippery rocks.
- Bring binoculars to better view the petroglyphs and pictographs on the rock walls.
- Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost and to protect sensitive natural areas.
Getting There
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Driving
Piney Creek Ravine Nature Preserve is located in a rural area. From State Route 3, south of Rockwood, take Hog Hill Road for approximately 3.9 miles. Turn right at the 'T' intersection, then take the first left, where Hog Hill Road becomes Rock Crusher Road. Continue on Rock Crusher Road for 1.5 miles to Piney Creek Road and turn right. Follow Piney Creek Road for 1.5 miles to the parking lot on the right. The final stretch of Piney Creek Road is gravel. Parking is free in the gravel lot. Be mindful of local farming operations and avoid parking along the road.
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Walking
From the parking area, walk to the left of the kiosk and around the metal gate. Follow the mowed path straight ahead. The path will turn 90 degrees to the right, where you'll see the first trail signs. Stay to the right of the signs and follow the trail downhill. Cross a small creek and continue to the beginning of the official loop trail. The 0.5 mile walk from the parking lot to the trail is between two fields.
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