Murphysboro

Beautiful rolling hills and woods surround Lake Murphysboro and provide opportunities for boating, fishing, picnicking, camping and hiking. Paddling is a perfect past time here. Canoe, Kayak, and Paddle Boards are all allowed much of the year. If fishing is on the agenda, a 10 hp maximum outboard motor is all that is allowed. A smaller lake, appropriately called Little Lake, is located just nor...

Woodland Spur Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Carbondale, Illinois.

Maurice Webb Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Carbondale, Illinois.

Oakland Nature Preserve - Woodland Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Carbondale, Illinois.

Oakland Nature Preserve - Stan Harris Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Carbondale, Illinois.

One of Illinois' best kept secrets, the Kincaid Lake Spillway is a awesome swimming hole just outside of Murphysboro. The three level cascade makes for a great place to spend a hot summer day. People sit, splash, or even slide down the tiers into the pools below.  There is a small side trail that will allow those not wishing to get wet access to the top for a great view of the 2,750 acre Kincai...

The trail starts along Hickory Ridge, the southern rim of the canyon. Continue on the trail as it begins to descend into the canyon, following the white diamond markers – you can make a quick stop off along a side path, which leads to some scenic river views. When you reach a stone staircase in the trail, be cautious as it can be slippery. The stairs will take you back up to the parking lot.

Little Grand Canyon Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Pomona, Illinois.

Fernlands Preserve Trail is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Carbondale, Illinois.