Giant City State Park

Giant City State Park is a large nature reserve featuring towering sandstone formations and dense woodlands in southern Illinois. The grounds span 4,000 acres and include multiple hiking trails, rock climbing areas, lodges, cabins, and a restaurant for visitors.

The park was established in the 1930s, and its main structures including lodges and cabins were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps using stone from the site and local timber. These buildings remain central to how the park functions today.

The site holds evidence of Native American settlements, and visitors can see the remains of a prehistoric stone fort that reflects how indigenous peoples adapted to this rocky landscape.

The park is open year-round for hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and camping on clearly marked trails and designated areas. The mild months of spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.

The massive sandstone blocks throughout the park are naturally arranged to resemble streets of an ancient city, which inspired the park's distinctive name. Walking through these rock formations creates an unusual experience that few visitors expect when arriving.

Location: Jackson County

Location: Union County

Inception: 1927

Website: https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Parks/Pages/GiantCity.aspx

GPS coordinates: 37.60500,-89.18830

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:41