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Illinois
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Illinois State Parks

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USA Parks
Illinois
Western Region
Siloam Springs State Park
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Siloam Springs State Park Gazebo © Morgan Elsie
Siloam Springs State Park Lake access © Morgan Elsie
Golden hour on the frozen lake
Siloam Springs State Park siloam dusk © gerald davidson
Returning late from fishing
Siloam Springs State Park Dock © Morgan Elsie
Golden hour on the frozen lake
Siloam Springs State Park Hiking anyone © Sara Armstrong
The 4 mile trail, Red Oak Backpack Trail.
Siloam Springs State Park Site of Forest Hotel © Sara Armstrong
Siloam Springs State Park Serenity © Sara Armstrong
Siloam Springs State Park Calm © Sara Armstrong
Lovely day for fishing
Siloam Springs State Park © Laura and Brandon Mowen
Siloam Springs State Park All That Remains © Sara Armstrong
Whats left of the Forest Hotel.
Siloam Springs State Park Old Village Trail © Sara Armstrong
Siloam Springs State Park © Sara Armstrong
Siloam Springs State Park Old Mineral Spring © Sara Armstrong
Siloam Springs State Park © Kevin P. Nobis
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SILOAM SPRINGS STATE PARK
SILOAM SPRINGS STATE PARK
938 E. 3003rd Lane
Clayton, Illinois   62324

Phone: 217-894-6205
Reservations: 217-894-6205
Email: park email button icon
Nature's bounty has conspired to produce a natural beauty and source of recreation greatly prized by generations of Midwesterners at Siloam Springs State Park, just minutes east of Quincy.

The beautifully wooded terrain, sparkling lake, and carefully maintained facilities make this 3,323 acre site one of the most beautiful parks in Illinois. It's an ideal setting for outdoor visits, whether your interest is hunting, fishing, camping, boating, picnicking, hiking or bird watching. The park is surrounded by luxuriantly forested gullies and scenic crests alive with wild roses, black-eyed Susans, white false indigo and snapdragons.
History of the Area
Originally part of the "military tract" of western Illinois (land set aside to be given to combat veterans), the area was acquired in 1852 by George Meyers for his service in the Black Hawk and Mexican wars. He died in 1882 at the age of 102. Legend has it that spring water in the area had a medicinal effect, thus the name Siloam Springs from a Biblical reference, so-called by the Rev. Reuben K. McCoy, who had discovered the springs following the Civil War.

After Meyers' death, Quincy Burgesser, a local businessman and stock dealer, became aware of the springs and their "curative value." He had the water analyzed and discovered it had more "strength" (a higher mineral content) than water from the famous Eureka and Waukesha springs.

Burgesser touted the water's ability to cure almost all ailments, even drunkenness and drug addiction. By 1884 he had erected two spring houses, a bathing house and the Siloam Forest Home Hotel, and the area became a popular and fashionable resort. Water from the No. 2 spring was bottled and distributed as far west as Kansas City and bottling became a flourishing business for several decades.

In 1935, the Siloam Springs Recreation Club purchased the site in an effort to restore it and provide a place of recreation for the local population. Citizens of Adams and Brown counties raised money to match state funds and by 1940 an agreement was reached to make it a state recreation area. Eventually, the old hotel and bath houses were torn down, the swimming pool abandoned and the springs no longer were used. The No. 2 spring house was rebuilt in 1995 and contains the most popular spring.

In 1954 and 1955, an earthen dam was constructed across a deep ravine and the 58-acre lake was created. In 1956 Siloam Springs was dedicated as a state park, and efforts began to develop its recreational facilities.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Huntingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bike Trailsyes
 Bridle Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
AccommodationsGolf Courseyes
Park Store
Boat and Canoe rentals, a variety of bait and tackle, snack foods, soda and sandwiches are available on a seasonal basis from the concession stand by the lake, phone 217-894-6271.
Camping
If you want to spend a night or two under the stars, there are 98 Class A camp sites featuring rest rooms, showers and electricity, 84 Class B camp sites featuring showers and rest rooms, and four backpack camp sites, in addition to a special group campground. There is a centrally located shower facility available to all campers. Campsite Reservations are NOT accepted.

Horse Trails and Equestrian Camping:

The park contains equestrian trails totaling 23 miles, covering ridgetops and steep wooded valleys. There is a separate camping area for riders and their mounts, with water and limited electricity. Horse rentals are not available.
Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. There are two lakes, the larger one being 58 acres and the smaller one is 12 acres. Both allow non-motorized boats only to maintain peace and tranquility in the area. A boat launch ramp is available on both bodies of water for easy access, but all vessels must have valid registration from any state.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in two large, fully stocked lakes. Species include largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish among others. A small pond offers trout fishing opportunities as well.


Location
Siloam Springs State Park is

Picnicking
Old Siloam picnic area provides visitors with four shelters, charcoal grills, rest rooms, shaded tables and playground equipment. The main shelter house, which holds more than 20 tables, also provides flush toilets, hot and cold water, grills, playground equipment, plenty of parking and a set of horseshoe pits. In addition, there are several other smaller areas scattered along the park entrance road providing tables and grills.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore a variety of trails, but be aware that some paths may prove challenging.

The park offers several miles of multi-use trails suitable for cyclists; however, they are shared with hikers and horseback riders.

It's important to note the terrain varies greatly - from flat stretches to steep inclines requiring advanced skills.

Cyclists should exercise caution when biking in wet conditions as certain areas become slippery and potentially hazardous.

Remember also that wildlife is abundant here so always stay alert while enjoying your ride through nature's beauty.

Always wear appropriate safety gear including helmets due to potential risks on these mixed-usage tracks.

Check trail status before heading out since closures occur periodically for maintenance or weather-related issues.

Lastly, respect all posted signs regarding speed limits or restricted zones ensuring everyone enjoys their time safely within this natural haven.
Trails
Hiking the Siloam Springs trails brings you closer to the many wildflowers found throughout the park, including wild roses, snapdragons and black-eyed Susans. There are about 12 miles of scenic hiking trails that go from valleys to flatlands throughout the park, including a combination 6-mile hiking and backpacking trail. Most trails are easy, but Hoot Owl at 1.5 miles and Red Oak backpack trail at 4 miles are moderate. Four primitive camp sites are also available for those who wish to hike to them.
Birding
The park offers birdwatchers a variety of species, including waterfowl and songbirds. Birding trails are available for exploration. The area is home to over 200 different types of birds throughout the year. Raptors such as hawks can be spotted during migration seasons in spring and fall.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
March 30 , A GREAT PLACE TO SPEND A WEEK OR A DAY by james e mcginn
park review stars; one to five
August 9 GREAT IN THE FALL SEASON by JAMES E MCGINN
park review stars; one to five LOVE TO HUNT THE GRAY SQUIRRELS THERE IS A, NICE CONCESSION STAND BY THE LAKE ,
May 15 Heaven on Earth by J.C.
park review stars; one to five Siloam Springs is by far, the best State Park I have ever been to. Its captivating, private, beautiful and a bit of magic I believe. The lake is the clearest I have ever peered into. Its like liquid glass. The history of the place echoes through the hills and ravines, springs and streams. I am one of the lucky ones who live nearby in Quincy, so I go every chance I can get. Its my slice of Heaven right here on Earth. When you have a down day, the hills embrace you, and the streams softly talk to you till you remember that in the grand scheme of things, life is beautiful.
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Directions
From Quincy, IL, Take IL Rte 104 9 miles East to County Road 1200 N. Follow signs 12 miles to County Road 2873E, then South 3 miles to park entrance. Park Office is 1.5 miles from entrance. Park signs in place from Rte. 104 to park entrance.

From Springfield, IL, Take I 72 West to Griggsville and go North on Rte 107 for 11 miles. There, turn west on Rte.104 for 15 miles to County Road 2873E. Turn North for 6 miles to park entrance. Office is 1.5 miles from entrance. Park signs in place from Rte. 104 to the park entrance.

From Peoria, IL, Take US Rte. 24 to just outside of Clayton. There, turn South on County Road 2950E then South 10 miles to Kellerville, then West on 1200N 1 mile. Then to County Road 2873 South for 3 miles to park entrance. Park office is 1.5 miles from entrance. Park signs in place from Rte. 24 to park entrance.

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Illinois
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Illinois State Parks

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