Our favorite Illinois hidden gem

When we began our state park challenge in 2022, Ferne Clyffe State Park was an easy one to check off first. It is one of our most frequented. We have visited the state park in all seasons, and never disappoints.

There are waterfalls, rock, formations, a lake and beautiful views and trails at this park. There are multiple waterfalls, but many different access points. Check out the map, to see the East and West sections of the park. The east section of the park has many trails and waterfalls that are close together the west side of the park you will have to drive to each different access point/trail head.

Pictured below are some of our favorite spots in Ferne Clyffe State Park, and which trail and section they are located in they are located in.
The Ferne Clyffe waterfall trail(Big Rocky Hollow Trail) is one of the best trails for kids and people of all abilities, because it is ADA wheelchair accessible and a relatively short trail to the waterfall.

East Side Trails. Entrance off Route 37

-Big Rocky Hollow Trail

-Hawks Cave Trail (Trail Head is in the same parking lot as Big Rocky Hollow and Rebman Trails)

-Rebman Trail

This trail has a couple rain dependent waterfalls, as well as a large rock wall that is often used for climbing. At less than a mile, this trail is great for kids!

-Ferne Clyffe Lake Trail

This trail is the most beautiful trail in the fall. These cypress trees are orange, and the other trees are a range of green, yellow and reds. When the trees are reflected in the lake, it makes for such a beautiful scene!

West Side Trails.

The west side trails have multiple access points along Regent Lane, Cedar Grove Road, and Happy Hollow Road. Many of these trails also intersect or run along the River to River Trail.

-Borks Waterfall Trail

This is one of our all-time favorite trails. The waterfall is almost always flowing. During the winter, the waterfall freezes, and makes beautiful ice formations. When the river that runs along the trail is full, you can see fish, and beautiful turquoise water. You can access this trail off Regent Lane.

-Cedar Bluff Trail

The large bluffs here are also used for rock climbers. The short trail leads to the top of the bluffs that offer some beautiful views of the forest below!

– Big Buck Creek Trail

On this trail, you can find another one of Ferne Clyffe’s beautiful waterfalls. The largest one is called Twin Falls. There are many small waterfalls and large rock formations on this trail that runs along a small river.

More trails to enjoy

These are just a few of the beautiful trails there are to enjoy at Ferne Clyffe state park. There is a campground at this park, and I would definitely recommend staying there if you want to enjoy all of these trails over a couple days. You can find all the Illinois State Parks we have visited here. For more State Park Adventures, and to see additional pictures at this beautiful park don’t forget to check us out on Instagram @meghangarriott

if you love waterfalls be sure to check out these 15 Illinois Waterfalls