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Ferne Clyffe State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,089 Google reviews · Running trail in Goreville, Illinois · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Ferne Clyffe State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic 2,430-acre park featuring striking rock formations, fishing, a waterfall & hiking trails.
What runners say about Ferne Clyffe State Park
“If you are someone who enjoys nature and likes to get out and try new hiking trails I highly suggest this gorgeous state park.”
“Beautiful, well-marked trails through some amazing southern IL nature.”
“Peaceful area to walk or sit and reflect.”
“There are rocks, rivers/brooks, waterfalls (if you go at the right time) hills and valleys, hard and easy trails.”
Great spot for camping and hiking. There are plenty of primitive spots that you can access through self check-in 24/7. The cost is $8 per night in primitive camping. There is also another camp area for RV’s and for campers who wish to have electricity.
Wow, what a great experience. Loved our visit. I have been seeing this park a lot on Facebook and wanted to visit. We visited on a Friday morning, and it was perfect. The area has had a good amount of rain recently, so the park had loads of water moving, waterfalls, and streams.
Only had time to do Big Rocky Hollow Trail. The path that takes you to the waterfall, in my opinion, is just as scenic as the water itself. You're surrounded by massive bluffs on both sides with tall trees decorating the landscape. You really feel like you are in a fantasy world here.
A smaller park but with plenty to do. We enjoyed the moderate to difficult trails and the picnic areas. They have a small lake for fishing. No boats allowed on it. Trails are not flat and you will be climbing over some rocks so come prepared.
Trail conditions & character
“Got up early to explore the area and found out there was a series of waterfalls at the park, so I went to check them out, which I'm glad I did.”
“Trails are not flat and you will be climbing over some rocks so come prepared.”
“Beautiful, well-marked trails through some amazing southern IL nature.”
Plan your run at Ferne Clyffe State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitednr.illinois.gov
- Phone+1 618-995-2411
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Goreville
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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Woodland Trail
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Harmony Trail
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Jackson Falls
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Energy Park
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