Giant City State Park

Giant City State Park was dedicated in 1927 and covered 1,100 acres of land. The park has grown in size and now measures more than 4,000 acres. It has a variety of unique natural features such as sandstone bluffs, rock formations, waterfalls, and beautiful woodlands. Centuries of geological movements have created Giant City’s unique landscape and each year more than one million people visit this state park.

Park activities include picnicking, camping, hiking, boating, and hunting. There are several ponds located within the park that provide excellent bank fishing and Little Grassy Lake is accessible for boating and canoeing. There are eight nature trails that run throughout the park as well as designated areas for rock climbing.

There are 12 miles of equestrian trails, horse rentals, and guided tours available at Giant City State Park. Call (618) 529-4110 for more information.

The Giant City State Park Lodge was built in the 1930's and has been recently restored. Lodge visitors can rent cabins, shop in the lodge’s gift shop, or dine in the restaurant. Call (618) 457-4921 for reservations or more information.

The 4,725 square-foot visitors’ center was constructed in 1999 and offers a discovery corner for kids, a variety of educational exhibits, and a gift shop.

For more information about Giant City State Park, write or call:

Giant City State Park
235 Giant City Road
Makanda, IL 62958
(618) 457-4836

Directions:
From Carbondale, take Highway 51 south 12 miles to Makanda and follow signs to the park.

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