07/18/2025
Editor’s Note:
An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that a 120-foot observation tower exists at Red Hills State Park. Upon further review, no such tower is listed in official documents or current maps from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. We have removed the reference to ensure accuracy. The park’s elevated terrain does still offer panoramic views from atop the Red Hills—the highest point between St. Louis and Cincinnati. We regret the error.
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Red Hills State Park: A Year-Round Destination of History, Nature, and Outdoor Adventure
Tucked away in southeastern Illinois between Olney and Lawrenceville, Red Hills State Park offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor recreation. Spanning 967 acres of wooded hills, deep ravines, meadows, and year-round springs, the park has become a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike.
A Historic Crossroads
Red Hills State Park sits on the westernmost edge of the Vincennes Tract, the first land in Illinois ceded by Native American tribes to the United States under the Treaty of Greenville in 1795. That treaty, signed by members of the Western Confederacy—including the Shawnee, Miami, Wyandot, and Potawatomi—surrendered all claims to lands northwest of the Ohio River. The treaty line cuts directly through the park.
The area was once bisected by the Old Cahokia Trace, known locally as “Trace Road.” This early route served as the primary connection between Vincennes, Indiana, and St. Louis, Missouri, guiding settlers and traders across what would eventually become Illinois.
A Park Born from Water
In 1953, the construction of a dam across Muddy Creek, a tributary of the Embarras River, created the 40-acre Red Hills Lake. With a maximum depth of 30 feet and 2.5 miles of shoreline, the lake is now a focal point of the park, ideal for fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the view.
Though the dam sustained damage during the 2008 Illinois earthquake, it was successfully repaired in 2009 and the lake has since been restocked with fish, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy its waters once again.
Nature’s Playground in Every Season
No matter the season, Red Hills State Park has something to offer. In spring and summer, the park comes alive with blooming wildflowers, soothing breezes, and an inviting landscape perfect for camping, hiking, boating, and fishing. Autumn brings a vivid display of colorful foliage across the hills, while winter transforms the park into a serene setting for ice fishing, sledding, and ice skating.
From atop the Red Hills—the highest elevation between St. Louis and Cincinnati—visitors can take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Trails, Wildlife, and Unique Ecosystems
More than eight miles of scenic trails wind through the park’s diverse terrain, offering moderate hikes for nature lovers. Trails like Indian Treaty, Robin, Valley Springs, and Tulip Loop crisscross the hilly north side of Route 50, while equestrian and biking trails extend up to five miles when conditions allow.
Birdwatchers are often rewarded with glimpses of redheaded woodpeckers, goldfinches, and blue jays along the trails. A Class C equestrian campground is also available, and local Saddle Clubs host monthly horse shows from April to October at the Red Hills Arena.
In addition, the park includes the 627-acre Chauncey Marsh Nature Preserve, home to one of the best remaining examples of a Wabash Border Marsh Ecosystem. During late summer, pink and white hibiscus and hairy rose mallow burst into bloom, attracting pollinators and nature photographers alike.
Campgrounds and Picnic Areas
For overnight visitors, Red Hills features more than 100 Class A campsites with vehicular access, electric hook-ups, water, sanitary dump stations, and a modern bathhouse with showers and flush toilets. Many sites are pull-through with 50-amp service, and designated accessible sites are available. Additional accommodations include a primitive tent camping area, rent-a-camp cabin, equestrian camping, and a group camping area for youth organizations.
Families can take advantage of shaded picnic areas scattered throughout the park, complete with tables, grills, three picnic shelters (two reservable), and six playgrounds. All areas are conveniently located near parking and are accessible to visitors with disabilities.
Fishing, Hunting, and Winter Fun
Red Hills Lake is a popular spot for bank fishing, offering largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish. A boat launch is available for non-gas-powered boats. In the colder months, ice fishing and ice skating are popular activities when conditions allow.
The park also offers regulated seasonal hunting for squirrel, dove, woodcock, quail, and rabbit, along with archery-only deer hunting. All hunters are required to check in and out with park staff, and firearm hunting for deer is not permitted.
Honoring Our Veterans
Veterans' Point, a quiet one-quarter-acre area within the park, is dedicated to honoring local veterans of all wars. It provides a peaceful place for remembrance, reflection, and community gatherings.
Red Hills State Park is more than just a park—it’s a destination steeped in history, shaped by nature, and full of opportunity for adventure. Whether you’re camping under the stars, hiking among wildflowers, or pausing to remember the past, the park invites you to explore and enjoy its many offerings all year long.
