Known as Pere, the French word for "Father," missionary Jacques Marquette explored this area with Louis Jolliet in 1673 upon reaching the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Pere Marquette State Park, northwest of St. Louis, near the Illinois community of Grafton, encompasses 8,000 acres of exceptional beauty. The park is a great location for a bald eagle siting during the winter. Pere Marquette State Park offers many year round activities including horseback riding, hiking, hunting, fishing, picnicking, camping and boating. The park is home to 230 species of birds so it is a birdwatcher's paradise. The fishing variety is also excellent with the opportunity to catch bluegill, carp, catfish, crappie, drum, largemouth bass and white bass.
This park offers 12 miles of trails that are excellent for all levels of experience. The trails will take you through thick forests, towering bluffs, wildlife sightings and more. Eagle tours are also offered during the winter.
There are 20 miles or horseback riding trails.
13112 Visitor Center Lane<br />Grafton, IL 62037<br /><br />Pere Marquette State Park is located on Ilinois Route 100 (The Great River Road), about 18 miles west of Alton, Illinois. From Chicago: Take I-55 South to Exit 52 at Litchfield, IL Rt 16. Take Rt 16 West approx 49 miles to Jct of IL Rt 100. Proceed south on Rt 100 approximately 10 miles to the park. From St. Louis: Take I-270 North to US Hwy 367 North to Alton. Turn left on IL 143, proceed to 3rd stop light at IL Rt 100 and turn left. Take Rt 100 approximately 18 miles to the park.
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