Fort Massac State Park

Experience the scenic splendor of southern Illinois, with plenty of outdoor fun and events tied to the region's rich history, at Fort Massac State Park. Overlooking the mighty Ohio River from the southern tip of Illinois, this majestic location has been preserved and maintained since 1908, when it became Illinois'​ first state park.

Today, Fort Massac is a captivating reminder of days gone by, a fascinating excursion through the entire course of American history, and the perfect place to relax in soothing natural surroundings.

The nearly 1,500-acre park is perfect for picnics, camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and seasonal hunting programs.  The park also has an 18-hole disc golf course.

Activities

Boating and Fishing
Boating and fishing are permitted on and along the Ohio River. Anglers will find bullhead, carp, catfish, crappie, drum and largemouth bass. The boat dock and launch ramp easy river access.

Camping
Campers enjoy Fort Massac's 50 Class A vehicular campsites, complete with electricity, a disposal station and a shower building. Tent camping and a separate group campground also are available.

Disc Golf
Disc golf is a flying disc sport in which players throw a disc at a target, and is played using rules similar to golf. It is often played on a course of 9 or 18 holes, but other formats are common.

Hunting
Hunting is permitted for squirrel, woodcock, dove, deer (archery only) and rabbit in some parts of the park. Contact the park office for site-specific hunting regulations.

Picnicking
Fort Massac is the perfect place for a picnic lunch. Tables, grills and drinking water are located throughout the grounds and children will enjoy the three playgrounds. Four covered picnic shelters are available.

Trails
The park contains a 1-mile loop trail through grassy woods with the trailhead near the fort. This trail is designated as a Forest Watch Tree Identification Trail and brochures are available in the visitors' center.
The 2.5-mile Hickory Nut Ridge Trail shouldn't be missed, as it takes hikers along the scenic Ohio River.

The George Rogers Clark Discovery Trail is an 8.7-mile bicycle/pedestrian trail connecting the cities of Metropolis and Brookport through Massac County and Fort Massac State Park.  Approximately 4.0 miles of the trail is within the confines of Fort Massac State Park with most of the trail on a dedicated bike path and a small section using a shared roadway.