Pere Marquette State Park Visitors Center
13112 Visitor Center Lane, Grafton, Illinois
618-786-3323 ext 1
A room in a cabin
The campgrounds
Biking
Pere Marquette State Park is one of the starting points (along with Alton) of the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail. This 20-mile paved biking and hiking trail parallels the Mississippi River, the Illinois River, and the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway. It is known for its scenic views along with plenty of attractions and amenities. But the Vadalabene Trail isn’t the only option open to bikers in the area and more details can be reference on the Biking & Hiking page.
Bird Watching
Approximately 230 species of birds have been identified within, at the boundaries or flying over Pere Marquette State Park in the past 20 years. Popular locations for bird watching are Stump Lake, in the river bottoms, McAdams Peak and other overlooks along the scenic drive through the park.
Fishing
Anglers can fish for bluegill, carp, catfish, crappie, drum, largemouth and white bass in the Illinois River that runs adjacent to Pere Marquette State Park. Nearby fishing sites include the Mississippi River State Fish and Wildlife Area and the Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge. In addition, anglers can be seen along the banks of the Mississippi River and at the Melvin Price Locks and Dam. An Illinois fishing license is required unless you are fishing on the Mississippi River, where a Missouri license is also acceptable. If you don't have a current license you can buy a license online at the IDNR website.
Boating
Pere Marquette has launching ramps with ample parking that provide access to the Illinois River. In addition there are many other launching ramps and marinas in the area that provide access to the Mississippi and Illinois rivers as well as backwater lakes and sloughs. For more details check out the Public Boat Launches page at greatriverroad.com.
Picnicking
Picnic areas are located throughout the park, with tables, grills and trash containers provided. Three picnic shelters are available, and may be reserved. A fee is required to reserve shelters.
