Ferne Clyffe State Park is a beautiful camping destination located in Goreville, Illinois. With 60 campsites available for reservation, this park is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of Southern Illinois.

Camping reviews of Ferne Clyffe State Park are overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the park’s well-maintained facilities and scenic surroundings. Many reviewers note the park’s convenient location, which offers easy access to nearby attractions like the Shawnee National Forest and the Cache River Wetlands Center.

Key Takeaways

• Ferne Clyffe State Park is a popular camping destination in Southern Illinois with 60 campsites available for reservation.
• Visitors praise the park’s well-maintained facilities and convenient location near nearby attractions like the Shawnee National Forest and the Cache River Wetlands Center.
• Ferne Clyffe State Park is a great option for anyone looking to enjoy some time in the great outdoors and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Location and Accessibility

Ferne Clyffe State Park is located in Goreville, Illinois, United States. The park is easily accessible by car, and it is located just off of Route 37. The park is situated in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by forests, hills, and lakes. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.

The park is located approximately 15 miles south of Marion, Illinois, and approximately 100 miles southeast of St. Louis, Missouri. It is easily accessible from major highways, and there is ample parking available at the park.

Visitors to the park will find that it is well-maintained and easy to navigate. There are plenty of signs and maps available to help visitors find their way around the park. The park is also wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and ramps throughout the park.

Overall, Ferne Clyffe State Park is a great location for camping, hiking, and exploring the great outdoors. Its convenient location and accessibility make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Campsite Facilities

Ferne Clyffe State Park offers a variety of camping options, including Class A campsites with electrical hookups, Class B/S campsites without electrical hookups, and youth group camping areas.

The Class A campsites feature showers and flush toilets, while the Class B/S campsites have pit toilets available. The camping areas are well-maintained and offer picnic tables and fire rings at each site.

Additionally, the park offers a dump station for RVs and a water fill-up station. Firewood is available for purchase at the park office.

Overall, the camping facilities at Ferne Clyffe State Park are clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for visitors.

Natural Features

Ferne Clyffe State Park is a natural wonder located in Goreville, Illinois. The park is known for its beautiful natural features that attract visitors from all over the world.

One of the most prominent features of the park is the Ferne Clyffe Waterfall. The waterfall is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the natural beauty of the park. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, making it a perfect spot for picnics and relaxation.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and squirrels. Visitors can often spot these animals while hiking through the park’s many trails. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

In addition to the waterfall and wildlife, the park also features stunning rock formations. The park’s sandstone cliffs are a popular spot for rock climbing and bouldering. Visitors can also explore the park’s many caves, which are home to unique plants and animals.

Overall, Ferne Clyffe State Park’s natural features make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to hike, birdwatch, or simply relax in a beautiful natural setting, Ferne Clyffe State Park has something for everyone.

Recreational Activities

Ferne Clyffe State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. From hiking and fishing to camping and picnicking, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the most popular activities at the park is hiking. The park boasts several trails that wind through the scenic landscape, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The trails range in difficulty from easy to moderate, making them accessible to hikers of all skill levels.

Fishing is another popular activity at Ferne Clyffe State Park. The park’s lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and bluegill. Anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat, which can be rented from the park.

For those who enjoy camping, Ferne Clyffe State Park has a campground with 60 sites. The campground offers a range of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic tables. Reservations can be made online or by phone.

In addition to hiking, fishing, and camping, Ferne Clyffe State Park also offers opportunities for picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can relax and enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s many picnic areas, or watch for birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Overall, Ferne Clyffe State Park provides a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a peaceful hike, a day of fishing, or a weekend camping trip, the park has something for everyone.

Overall Experience

Ferne Clyffe State Park offers a great camping experience for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park provides a serene environment with beautiful views, great trails, and amazing rock formations. The campsites are well-maintained and offer good amenities for campers.

The park has received positive reviews from visitors who have praised its secluded location, quiet atmosphere, and the abundance of wildlife. Visitors have also appreciated the park’s proximity to nearby attractions such as the Shawnee National Forest and the Garden of the Gods.

One aspect that visitors have mentioned is the lack of cell service in some areas of the park. However, this has not deterred visitors from enjoying the park’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.

Overall, Ferne Clyffe State Park is a great destination for those who want to disconnect from the world and enjoy nature. The park provides a wonderful camping experience with great amenities, beautiful views, and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.

Safety and Regulations

Ferne Clyffe State Park has a set of regulations that campers must follow to ensure their safety and the safety of other campers. These regulations include:

• No fireworks are allowed in the park.
• No hunting is allowed in the park.
• All pets must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
• No cutting of trees or shrubs is allowed.
• No loud music or noise is allowed after 10 pm.
• All fires must be contained in designated fire rings or grills.
• Campers must properly dispose of their trash and recyclables in the designated containers.

It is important to note that these regulations are enforced by park rangers, and failure to comply with them could result in fines or eviction from the park.

In addition to these regulations, campers should also be aware of potential safety hazards in the park. Some of these hazards include:

• Slippery or uneven terrain on hiking trails.
• Poison ivy, poison oak, and other poisonous plants.
• Wild animals such as snakes, bears, and raccoons.
• Extreme weather conditions such as thunderstorms and high winds.

To ensure their safety, campers should take appropriate precautions such as wearing appropriate footwear, staying on designated trails, and properly storing food to prevent attracting wildlife.

Overall, by following the park’s regulations and taking appropriate safety precautions, campers can enjoy a safe and enjoyable camping experience at Ferne Clyffe State Park.

Booking and Pricing

Ferne Clyffe State Park offers 60 campsites for visitors to choose from. These sites are available for reservation on the official website of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Campers can reserve a site up to six months in advance. It is recommended to make reservations as early as possible, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

The park offers both electric and non-electric campsites. The electric sites are priced at $20 per night, while non-electric sites are priced at $10 per night. There is also a $5 reservation fee for each campsite. Visitors can make reservations for up to 14 consecutive nights.

The park also offers a group camping area that can accommodate up to 50 people. The group camping area is available for reservation at a rate of $50 per night. The group camping area is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet.

It is important to note that the park requires a minimum of two nights stay on weekends and a minimum of three nights stay on holiday weekends. Visitors are also required to check in at the park office upon arrival.

Overall, Ferne Clyffe State Park offers affordable camping options for visitors who are looking to enjoy the outdoors. The park’s reservation system is easy to use and allows visitors to plan their camping trip in advance.

Nearby Attractions

Ferne Clyffe State Park is located in Goreville, Illinois, and is surrounded by many attractions that visitors can explore during their stay. Here are some of the nearby attractions that visitors may want to check out:

• National Quilt Museum: Located in Paducah, Kentucky, the National Quilt Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in quilting. The museum has a vast collection of quilts that date back to the 18th century and also offers workshops and classes.
• Shawnee Hills Wine Trail: The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a popular destination for wine lovers. The trail features several wineries that offer tastings and tours, including Blue Sky Vineyard, StarView Vineyards, and Alto Vineyards.
• Giant City State Park: Giant City State Park is located in Makanda, Illinois, and features several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the park’s unique rock formations and enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s designated picnic areas.
• Cache River State Natural Area: Cache River State Natural Area is located in Belknap, Illinois, and is home to several unique plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, canoe and kayak on the Cache River, and go fishing in one of the park’s designated fishing areas.
• Garden of the Gods: Garden of the Gods is located in the Shawnee National Forest and features stunning rock formations that are over 320 million years old. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

These are just a few of the nearby attractions that visitors can explore during their stay at Ferne Clyffe State Park. Whether visitors are interested in hiking, wine tasting, or exploring museums, there is something for everyone in the surrounding area.

Conclusion

Ferne Clyffe State Park offers a variety of camping options for visitors, including tent camping, RV camping, and even equestrian camping. With 60 gravel pads, pull-thru sites, and electric hookups, visitors can find a campsite that suits their needs. The park also offers amenities such as showers, restrooms, and a dump station.

Visitors can enjoy hiking on the park’s trails, fishing in its lakes, and exploring its scenic beauty. The park’s location in southern Illinois provides a unique opportunity to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Overall, Ferne Clyffe State Park is a great destination for camping enthusiasts looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway. With its range of camping options and amenities, visitors can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing camping experience in the heart of southern Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some nearby campgrounds to Ferne Clyffe State Park?

Some nearby campgrounds to Ferne Clyffe State Park include Lake of Egypt Campground, Shawnee National Forest Campground, and Crab Orchard Campground.

What are the best cabins near Ferne Clyffe State Park?

Some of the best cabins near Ferne Clyffe State Park include Shawnee Forest Cabins, Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins, and Rustic Retreats.

What are some of the best campsites in Illinois State parks?

Some of the best campsites in Illinois State parks include the campsites at Starved Rock State Park, Pere Marquette State Park, and Matthiessen State Park.

How big is Rock Cut State Park?

Rock Cut State Park covers 3,092 acres.

What are some nearby state parks to Ferne Clyffe State Park?

Some nearby state parks to Ferne Clyffe State Park include Giant City State Park, Trail of Tears State Forest, and Dixon Springs State Park.

What are some of the best hiking trails in Giant City State Park?

Some of the best hiking trails in Giant City State Park include the Giant City Nature Trail, the Trillium Trail, and the Devil’s Standtable Trail.