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Murphysboro State Park |
Lake Murphysboro State Park
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52 Cinder Hill Drive
Murphysboro, IL 62966
618.684.2867
Beautiful rolling hills and woods surround star-shaped Lake Murphysboro and
provide a wonderful backdrop for boating, fishing, picnicking, camping and
hiking. Located in Jackson County about one mile west of Murphysboro off Route
149, the 1,022-acre state park is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors.
History
Archeological evidence for both the Old Woodland and Paleolithic Native American
cultures has been uncovered at the site. The Paleo people lived in small,
temporary camps and were known as big game hunters. The Woodland culture left
more evidence, since it was agricultural and is known for large settlements. By
the early 1800s, there were no Native American settlements in the immediate
area.
When Illinois was admitted to the Union in 1818, the Federal government gave
Illinois three saline lands. One of them, located less than a mile southwest of
the park, was leased to Dr. Conrad Will, who served in both the Illinois House
and Senate in the early days of statehood. Dr. Will operated a salt works at the
site, and the town of Brownsville grew up around it. The salt works closed in
1840, and all that remains of the town is the cemetery.
Although the State of Illinois did not purchase the 1,022 acres that would
become Lake Murphysboro State Park until 1948, interest in the area as a public
recreational park began in the 1930s. Originally developed by the State’s
Division of Fisheries, Lake Murphysboro State Park was transferred to the
Division of Parks and Memorials in 1955. Today, the park is maintained by the
Department of Natural Resources.
The Lake
Built in 1950 by the Division of Fisheries, the 145-acre lake is a tributary of
Indian Creek and has a watershed of approximately 4,500 acres. The maximum water
depth is 36 feet, and the lake’s 7.5 miles of shoreline are made up of rolling
hills covered with a wide variety of trees. A 600-foot dam is located at the
south end of the park. A smaller lake, appropriately called Little Lake, is
located just north of Lake Murphysboro.
Soon after its completion, Lake Murphysboro was stocked with breeder-size and
yearling-size largemouth bass. In the fall of 1951, redear sunfish were
introduced, followed by bluegill the next spring. Channel catfish are also
frequently stocked. To maintain a healthy fish population, submerged vegetation
and water draw-downs are used to keep the number of small panfish down.
Natural Features
Patches of native wild orchids may be found in the wooded areas of the park.
Yellow lady’s slipper, showy, purple fringeless, twayblade, puttyroot, coralroot
and ladies’ tresses are just some of the varieties to watch for. The variety of
orchids makes it possible to find blooming plants throughout the year.
The wooded hills include groves of majestic oak and hickory trees, as well as
most other types of trees.
Archery
An archery range is located in the northwest section of the park.
Picnicking
Whether you visit Lake Murphysboro State Park to fish, hike or especially for a
picnic, you will enjoy the shaded picnic areas located in convenient locations
around the lake.
For larger groups there are two shelter houses, one with drinking water and
playground equipment. Parking areas are available at both shelters.
Handicapped-accessible toilet facilities are located in the concession area and
in the Big Oak and Water Lily camping areas. ADA restrooms are available at both
shelters.
Fishing and Boating
With its gentle hills and shady shores, Lake Murphysboro is a popular retreat
for bank fishing. No matter what form of fishing one prefers, anglers will
appreciate the variety of fish available: largemouth bass, bluegill, redear
sunfish, channel catfish and crappie.
A fishing pier with facilities for the handicapped is available, and there’s a
handicapped-accessible boat transfer station.
Boaters can bring their own boat or rent one near the boat launch. The outboard
motor limit is 10 H.P.
Bank and boat fishing are also available on Little Lake, but no motors are
allowed.
Camping
Well-equipped campsites located in scenic areas of the park provide the perfect
opportunity to extend your stay at Lake Murphysboro. Campers who want to truly
experience nature will appreciate the 20 tent sites.
Those who love nature, but like the comfort of home, will prefer the 54 trailer
sites that are equipped with electricity.Three Class A handicapped sites and one
Class B/S handicapped site are available. A sanitary disposal station is located
near the trailer area. All campers must obtain a permit from the site
superintendent.
Hiking
A three-mile designated trail offers hikers the opportunity to enjoy the plant,
animal and bird life of the park up close. For those who prefer to explore
nature on their own, several paths criss-cross through the hills and woods of
the park.
Directions
Lake Murphysboro State Park is located in Jackson County on the north side of
Rt. 149, approximately 2 miles west of Murphysboro. From Rt. 13, 127, and 149
junction, take Rt. 149 west 2 miles to the entrance of Lake Murphysboro State
Park/Kinkaid Lake. From Rt. 3, take 149 east approximately 5 miles to the
entrance of Lake Murphysboro State Park/Kinkaid Lake.
* While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's
facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to
avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts.
* At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors.
* Pets must be kept on leashes at all times.
* Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call
ahead to the park office before you make your trip.
* We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only
footprints.
* For more information on tourism in Illinois, call the Illinois Department of
Commerce and Community Affairs' Bureau of Tourism at 1-800-2Connect.
* Telecommunication Device for Deaf and Hearing Impaired Natural Resources
Information (217) 782-9175 for TDD only Relay Number 800-526-0844.
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