FORT DEFIANCE STATE PARK
Fort Defiance State Park has 16 campsites. The camping area is non-modern. No flush toilets or showers are present. However, electrical hookups are available at eight sites. All camping permits are obtained through self-registration at the campground. Camping Fees can be paid at the site.
Several trails take you around the park and through the hills and woodlands that make up Fort Defiance. Equestrian use is allowed on three of the trails. During winter months the park is a popular place for snowmobiling and cross country skiing.
Fort Defiance State Park's 191 acres of rugged woodland provide a beautiful contrast to the gently rolling surrounding farmlands. The park's trails, picnic areas and scenic overlooks provide a great place to relax. Its lush cover of vegetation includes hawthorn, plum, locust and many species of the state tree - the oak. In the spring, the slopes are speckled with trillium, bloodroot, hepatica and violets. A small prairie with native grasses and flowers, including the endangered prairie bush clover, thrives on a secluded knoll.
Fort Defiance State Park is
A lodge constructed in the style of an old army outpost is an excellent place for group gatherings such as reunions and wedding receptions. It is available for rent by reservation through the park manager.
An open shelter is available on a first-come, first-served basis at no fee.
Located in Illinois, the park offers birding opportunities with over 200 species spotted. It's a migratory stopover for warblers and waterfowl. Bird watchers can also spot bald eagles during winter months.
Cottages and Cabins
Enjoy a getaway to nearby Southern Illinois with Shawnee National Forest Cabins. Rustic log cabin rentals with modern comforts such as hot tubs, Wifi and satellite TV located near Garden of the God in the Shawnee National Forest.
59.9 miles from park*
Cottages and Cabins
Tucked away in the picturesque rolling hills of Southern Illinois, our location rests on the highly acclaimed Southern Illinois Wine Trail. Pinnon Lake cabins are ten tranquil minutes from the edge of Shawnee National Forest. Moments from anywhere yet feels like miles from it all.
36.6 miles from park*
I remember my parents stopping to show this park to us when my brother and I were young. A couple of years ago, I took my own family back to show them. As others have mentioned, the park is insane shape. The bugs were terrible. Granted, it is in the river bottoms, but as the first state park encountered upon entering the state, definitely a huge disappointment.
The camping description is incorrect. There are no electric hook ups.
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