Why is it called Giant City State Park?
Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park was named for the unique impressions made by its massive sandstone structures and a landscape like none other, with lush garments of fern, moss, flowering mints, hundreds of species of wild flowers and more than 75 varieties of towering trees.
What county is Giant City State Park?
A lodge and visitor center welcome state park guests. Giant City State Park is a haven for nature lovers….
| Giant City State Park | |
|---|---|
| Location | Jackson and Union Counties, Illinois, USA |
| Nearest city | Makanda, Illinois |
| Coordinates | 37°36′18″N 89°11′18″WCoordinates: 37°36′18″N 89°11′18″W |
| Area | 4,000 acres (1,619 ha) |
How many acres is Giant City State Park?
4,000 acres
Breathtaking beauty With over 4,000 acres of breathtaking natural beauty and unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation, a trip to Giant City State Park, is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Who owns Giant City Lodge?
the Kelley family
Under the supervision of the National Park Service, the CCC undertook such projects as road construction, landscaping, foot trails, guardrails and general forestry improvements. The Giant City Lodge was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and has been managed by the Kelley family since 1981.
Who built Giant City Lodge?
the Civilian Conservation Corp
It was built by the Civilian Conservation Corp using sandstone and white oak timber construction, and sits on a hill, the highest point in the park. The Lodge features 34 cabins with heat and air conditioning, full baths, TVs, telephones and forest views.
When was Giant City Lodge built?
1930s
Giant City Lodge in Giant City State Park was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Giant City Lodge was opened in 1936.
How often does Cave-in-Rock Ferry run?
7 days per week
The ferry can hold up to about 12 vehicles at a time and travels across the Ohio River between Cave In Rock, Illinois and Kentucky. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes for a round trip. The ferry runs from 6:00 AM to 9:50 PM daily (7 days per week).
What to do at Giant City State Park?
A highlight of Giant City State Park is the new visitor center. The Center provides interpretive displays on the geology, plants, animals, and history of the park. An audio-visual room with a running 10 minute film about the park guides visitors through the interesting features.
How much does it cost to ride a horse at Giant City?
The fee is $20 per night, payable via the self registration system. Day riders may park their trailers at the rear of the campground and then access the equestrian trail. For those without horses, the park offers guided rides at Giant City Stables, located at the north end of the park.
How many campsites are there in giant city?
Giant City is also popular for a camping retreat, with 85 Class A campsites that can be reserved online at ExploreMoreIL, a Class C camping area with 14 walk-in campsites, and a youth group camping area. Visitors can enjoy picturesque natural wonders along Giant City’s hiking trails, and rock climbing/rappelling are permitted in two locations.
Why visit giant city state park near Carbondale?
With its breathtaking natural beauty and unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation, a trip to Giant City State Park near Carbondale is sure to delight visitors of all ages. From camping and horseback riding to fishing and rappelling, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise.