Giant City State Park, Illinois
Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know
Everything the RV Renter Needs to Know
In southern Illinois, you’ll find a land that is nothing like the “Windy City” up north. Among the sprawling forests, lakes, and rivers of the region you’ll find Giant City State Park. The name, although unique, is quite misleading as there is not a major town remotely close to the park. Instead, “Giant City” refers to the massive, building-like sandstone bluffs throughout the park.
The land is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Along these huge sandstone bluffs there are also a beautiful variety of wildflowers, a number of river systems, and 16 ponds. The geology of the area creates a rugged, undulating environment that lends itself well to trail exploration. All of these features make Giant City State Park camping an excellent stop in your rental RV.
Giant City State Park offers visitors eight different hiking trails. Although the vast majority of these trails are two miles or less, most are designed to bring hikers through rugged terrain to view striking natural features. The Trillium Trail, for example, is only 2 miles long, but will take you about an hour to complete with all the twists and turns as you view the incredible wildflower diversity.
If you are looking for a challenge, you want the Red Cedar Trail. At 12 miles, this hike will take you a good portion of the day. In fact, hikers are allowed to camp at designated campsites near the trail’s midpoint for a backcountry camping experience. If you wish to hike the Red Cedar Trail, you will need to obtain a permit from the visitor’s center (for your safety).
Anglers will love Giant City State Park for its 13 quaint, walk-in fishing ponds. These ponds are consistently stocked by the DNR with largemouth bass, sunfish, and bluegill. With so many different ponds available, fishermen can conveniently change things up and move to a new location if the bite is slow.
There are a few important considerations when fishing at Giant City State Park. You will need a state-issued fishing license to fish in any of the ponds. In addition, only two poles are allowed per angler within the park instead of the usual three. Finally, no boats of any kind are allowed on these ponds so leave the kayaks or canoe with the RV.
For the more adventurous visitor, Giant City State Park has two primary rock climbing areas. Both Devil’s Standtable and the Shelter #1 bluff are nice sandstone cliffs that are perfect for either rappelling or proper climbing. Some fixed bolts are in place at the tops of the cliffs for rope use.
Climbers should be mindful that they aren’t the only ones enjoying the cliffs. Copperhead snakes are known to sun themselves on these cliffs and a bite will require a ride to the hospital. In addition, no permanent anchors are allowed to help prevent damage and erosion to the rock face.
There are nearly 3,000 huntable acres at Giant City State Park. Try your luck for white tail deer, rabbits, squirrels, turkeys, or doves. The close proximity to a number of major rivers makes the park a haven for trophy-class whitetails.
Remember to check in any game you harvest at the end of your hunting day. While you are out and about, also be mindful of signage as not all of the land in the park is open for hunting access. Finally, park staff highly encourage all hunters to have at least one piece of prominent blaze orange clothing for everyone’s safety.
You’ve done your fair share of hiking, but how about adding a little twist to your trail experience? Giant City State Park has its own stables for you to learn how to ride a horse. Even if you are a novice, the knowledgeable park staff will get you up and riding in no time.
Once you’ve got a hold of the reigns, you can head out on a guided tour of the dedicated 12-mile equestrian trail. During your ride, you’ll get fantastic views of the sandstone bluffs and deep gorges throughout the park. As tempting as it may be to do a little exploring, it’s critical that you keep your horse on the trail to prevent unnecessary damage to the surrounding land.
There are 85 sites at Giant City State Park Campground designated as “Class A,” which essentially means they are RV-Friendly and offer 30-amp electrical service. Throughout the campground, you will also find potable water, bathhouses, and dump stations. Although a few of these campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, reservations are recommended to guarantee your spot.
Just five miles to the northeast, Little Grassy Lake Campground is situated on its namesake body of water and is a great option for lake lovers. Water/electric or full hookup sites are available for your RV with the option of lake access for a small surcharge. Campers will enjoy onsite boat and kayak rental, a camp store, and a sandy beach for excellent swimming and fishing.
Twenty miles to the north of the park, the Crab Orchard Lake Campground is right on the shore of the largest lake in the area and is located within the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. Either full hookup or water/electric sites are available for your RV with many options for lakeside camping. Two boat launches are also on site for you launch a rented canoe or kayak for plenty of paddling and fishing fun.
To the east of Crab Orchard Lake, the Marion Campground and RV Park is a good option for folks looking to stay closer to a mid-size town. The 58 full hookup RV campsites are outfitted with 50/30-amp electrical and satellite TV service. For your convenience, Wi-Fi, a pet area, bathhouses, and a laundry facility are available. Campers will also be within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and bars in downtown Marion.
About 25 miles to the north in the town of Herrin, campers will enjoy the peaceful grounds of the Four Seasons Campground. Choose from one of 31 full hookup sites that also will also get free Wi-Fi service. For your comfort, the campground provides bathhouses, a laundry facility, and propane service. For fun, make sure you pack your fishing poles. The campground is within walking distance of a number of ponds. You can also venture into downtown Herrin for a bite to eat
The sole dining option within the park is located at the lodge and has a solid menu for hungry campers. All three meals are served at the lodge and the blend of American favorites and southern comfort food is highly rated by guests. Don’t miss out on the homemade fruit cobbler for dessert.
There are two major food hubs within a reasonable distance of the park, one to the north and one to the south. To the north, the city of Carbondale (12 miles) has a nice selection including pizza, Mediterranean, Japanese, Mexican, Thai, and a number of American grills and cafés. To the south, Anna (13 miles) has plenty of major chains as well as pizza, Mexican, and a few American eateries.
No matter where you stay, the fun and beauty of the towering sandstone bluffs at Giant City State Park will make great memories for your RV camping trip through the great Prairie State.