Visit Fort Massac State Park
Metropolis, Illinois
Details
Distance
0.5 miles
Elevation Gain
15 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Lucas Bremer
Explore a historic site that dates back to 1757.
The long decorated history of Fort Massac dates back to 1757 during the French and Indian War when this French fort was constructed overlooking the Ohio River in Southernmost Illinois.
The French left the fort behind at the conclusion of that war, then was rebuilt and used once more during the Revolutionary War in 1778. The area was used again during the Northwest Indian War under Colonel George Rogers Clark, brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
In 1803, Lewis and Clark stopped at the fort on its journey west and recruited two volunteers. The fort also suffered major damage during the New Madrid Earthquake of 1811. The site was also briefly a training camp during the early years of the Civil War. The fort was abandoned shortly after. In 1908, Fort Massac became Illinois' first state park.
Today, a replica of a 1802 fort has been constructed. On a half mile pathway one is able to walk the grounds where the original fort stood, see a monument of George Rogers Clark, and get fantastic views of the Ohio River.
Every fall, hundreds of reenactors and vendors of French, British, and American Colonial life are on display during the Fort Massac Encampment.
There is also a Museum, and a Campground with electric hookup on site as well. More information on camping at the park can be found here.
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Visit Fort Massac State Park Reviews
Every third weekend in October they have the encampment. It’s really fun and lots of artisans set up and the food it also really good. I recommend the cream soda and buffalo chili if you do go
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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