Folks flock to Ferne Clyffe State Park, in southern Illinois, for its reputation as one of the state's most beautiful places. However, its perils - of which visitors are often unaware - make Ferne Clyffe one of the most dangerous state parks in Illinois.
You'll find Ferne Clyffe State Park in the rugged bluff country of southern Illinois, between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers and adjacent to the Shawnee National Forest.
However, the same rugged terrain that makes the park beautiful also hides dangers to visitors.
The park boasts scenic geological features and unique plant communities, like the namesake ferns that can be found throughout the park's 2,400 mostly-forested acres.
The park warns visitors to use "Extreme Caution" and avoid wandering when hiking its 18 scenic trails.
Inside the park's 53-acre Round Bluff Nature Preserve, in fact, visitors are required to stay on the trail for their own safety, as well as that of the plant and animal communities in the preserve.
Many of the trails wind their way through and above the park's limestone bluffs.
Rock climbers will find ample opportunities to test their skills in the park.
Use caution, though, as falling is the most common peril in the park.
Several people have died in falls at Ferne Clyffe. Most falls occur when people wander too close to cliff edges or fail to account for how slippery the rock surfaces can become when they're wet.
Three species of venomous snakes live in the park.
Copperheads, timber rattlesnakes, and cottonmouth water moccasins make their homes in the park. They don't typically pose a threat to humans unless disturbed.
Visitors who use common sense and adhere to park rules generally encounter no trouble in the park.
And they're rewarded with all the natural beauty Ferne Clyffe has to offer.
When you visit Ferne Clyffe, wear sturdy shoes - with traction devices in winter months - and consider using trekking poles. As always, bring plenty of water, a hat, and a jacket, as well as insect repellant and sunscreen during summer. Have you visited Ferne Clyffe State Park? Did you encounter anything that made you feel unsafe?
If you're exploring the area, pay a visit to the nearby Shawnee National Forest, as well.
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