Mississippi Palisades State Park

A park that is rich in Native American history, this 2,500-acre National Landmark Park is located near the Apple and Mississippi Rivers. The Mississippi Palisades State Park has unique rock formations and endless miles of trails which can be explored both by humans and their furbabies, as long as pooches are on a leash. 

At this Illinois state park, there is also a profusion of wildlife and a myriad of other recreational pursuits. Dogs are allowed in the Mississippi Palisades State Park and the camper area for no additional fee, but they have to well-behaved and cleaned up after, aside from being on a leash. 

Native Americans who lived hundreds of years ago did just what present-day hikers do they took the path of least resistance when coursing the bluffs. The trials on the southern part of the park put you directly in touch with the past. Trudge the same trails, and you will be able to trace the footsteps of the people who came before you almost a thousand years ago. 

The Sentinel Trails is one of the most popular trails clocking in at 1.3 miles, and it leads hikers where they can take a turn to conquer the monolith. The Mississippi Palisades State Park is also in demand by campers. It has 241 class A and B sites in both shaded and open areas. Electrical hookups are available in one hundred and ten locations. 

Flush toilets and showers are located in three of the buildings and are in operation from the first day of May until the last day of October. The campground also features two sanitary dump and water stations, so if you ever go with your four-legged best friend, you need not worry about getting dehydrated, but you do have to bring a water jug to refill. However, dog scooper bags are not available, so bring some to clean up after your pooch.