Nearly 200 prehistoric rock art depictions make Piney Creek Ravine a distinctive cultural site in Jackson County. They are believed to date from the Late Woodland period and the Mississippi period. The presumed attribution to two different periods gives the depictions a concrete cultural and historical context.

Rock Art and Trails at Piney Creek Ravine

Piney Creek Ravine State Natural Area covers 198 acres and lies on the border between Randolph County and Jackson County. A hiking trail at the ravine follows a cliff edge above the creek. This lets you explore the site along the trail while the rock art draws attention to its prehistoric history. Trail conditions can vary by season; take this into account when planning your visit.

Lakes, Sandstone, and Forest

Kinkaid Lake is in Jackson County and covers 2,750 acres. Sandstone formations along the cliffs and gently rolling hills surround the lake; oak and hickory trees predominate on the hills.

Kinkaid Lake has four boat ramps and a full-service marina. If you plan to use these facilities, check local conditions before your visit, as temporary conditions may affect access. This keeps boating in your plans without losing sight of the lake’s landscape features.

Park Landscapes and Archaeological Traces

Lake Murphysboro State Park covers 1,022 acres in Jackson County. A designated 2-mile trail offers opportunities to observe the park’s plant, animal, and bird life. Trail conditions may vary. The Lake Murphysboro Hill Prairies preserve is also located within the state park, in southwestern Jackson County. Archaeological evidence is also part of the park’s history: it points to Archaic-period and Paleolithic Native American cultures.

The Giant City Nature Trail offers another view of the sandstone landscape. It leads to Giant City Streets, massive sandstone cliffs formed 12,000 years ago.

Fern Rocks is a 170-acre preserve within Giant City State Park. It includes high-quality dry and mesic upland forests, cliffs, and rock outcrops. Fern Rocks is suitable for hiking, birdwatching, and nature study. Visitors who want to focus on a range of natural features will find forests and rock formations to explore here. The Giant City Visitor Center offers interpretive exhibits on geology, plants, animals, and the park’s history, as well as information about regional tourism.

Trail Distances and a Competition

Trail distances also offer a practical point of reference: the designated trail in Lake Murphysboro State Park is 2 miles long, and the Red Cedar Hiking Trail is 12 miles long. A campsite for overnight stays lies halfway along the Red Cedar Hiking Trail. Camping conditions can vary by season.

The Barbecue Cook off adds another dimension to regional experiences. Competition categories include whole hog, pork shoulder, and ribs. Event details may change; if you plan to attend the competition, check the latest event information.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Gorham, Vergennes, Carbondale, Murphysboro, Dowell, Makanda, Shelby County, Piatt.

For the overview of the wider region: Illinois.